The Eight-Pointed ‘Mi’kmaq Star’ is a common trademark in Marcus Gosse’s paintings. His stars are often seen painted in four different colours: red, black, white and yellow. These four colours together represent harmony and unity between all people. The Mi’kmaq Star honors all cultures.

   In 1983, a man in Bedford, Nova Scotia came across a Mi’kmaq Petroglyph in a wooded area. A ‘petroglyph’ is a symbol, or, design carved into stone. This petroglyph was an eight-point star – a symbol that is very important to the Mi’kmaq.  It is believed that this eight-point Mi’kmaq Star petroglyph is over 500 years old.

  The eight-point Mi’kmaq Star is believed to be an updated version of the seven-point star; which the Mi’kmaq used to represent the seven districts of their nation. The Mi’kmaq Nation grew to eight districts with the addition of K’taqmkuk (Newfoundland). The Mi’kmaq updated the star to eight-points to welcome their brothers and sisters from Newfoundland.

  The eight-point Mi’kmaq Star is used today not only as a cultural symbol, but, also as a design emblem. Many Mi’kmaq artists use the star, and various Mi’kmaq Double Curve Designs to decorate their blankets, baskets, drums, clothing and paintings.