As an artist, I see "Canada" defined by an allegorical representation of a young, beautiful, strong and stoic female figure.  As such, I placed her on a shield surrounded by 150 soldiers, all representing various periods in Canadian history. They are the ones who "stand on guard for thee". This symbolic image of "The Canadian Shield" is how I have defined "Canada"; she is rich in history, in beauty, in fortitude and in perseverance.