Canada Post has issued a new stamp celebrating the work of acclaimed cartoonist and graphic novelist Kate Beaton, a proud daughter of Cape Breton. The official unveiling ceremony was held on December 17, 2025, at the Mabou Post Office in Mabou, Nova Scotia, bringing a touch of national recognition to the small community.
A Local Artist Receives National Honour
The stamp features an original illustration by Beaton, whose work often draws from her Cape Breton roots and has garnered a massive following across Canada and beyond. Known for her webcomic "Hark! A Vagrant" and the bestselling graphic memoir "Ducks," which details her experiences working in Alberta's oil sands, Beaton's unique voice and artistic style have made her a significant figure in contemporary Canadian arts.
Attending the event in person, Beaton expressed her gratitude for the recognition from Canada Post, noting the particular significance of being honoured in her home province. "To see something like this happen here, where my story began, is incredibly moving," she stated during the ceremony.
Celebrating Canadian Culture and Storytelling
This issuance is part of Canada Post's ongoing series that highlights influential Canadian artists, writers, and cultural icons. By featuring Beaton, the national postal service aims to celebrate the impact of graphic storytelling and its power to convey complex Canadian narratives.
The stamp will be available for purchase at post offices across the country and through Canada Post's online store. Collectors and fans of Beaton's work are expected to eagerly seek out the new issue, which serves as both functional postage and a miniature piece of art.
A Boost for Mabou and Cape Breton's Creative Community
The local unveiling in Mabou highlights the importance of recognizing artistic achievement outside of major urban centres. Community leaders view the event as a point of pride and a potential catalyst for drawing further attention to the region's vibrant cultural scene.
The stamp's release underscores a successful year for Beaton, following critical acclaim for "Ducks," which won several major literary awards. It solidifies her status not just as a beloved cartoonist, but as an important chronicler of the modern Canadian experience, from the realities of resource labour to the nuances of maritime life.
