At a time when Black culture is slowly being erased, moments like this matter more than ever.
For the first time in American history, a Black woman has been chosen to handcraft both the logo and theme art for Super Bowl LIX.
Queen Tahj Williams, a 26-year-old artist, and member of the Golden Eagles Tribe in New Orleans whose work is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Big Easy, was given the honor of bringing the city’s rich cultural legacy to one of the biggest stages in sports.
Rather than leaning on the usual Big Easy tropes – harlequin masks, pelicans, trumpets, and such – the NFL embraced Queen Tahj’s intricate beadwork designs, which draw deeply from the Black Masking tradition.
The centuries-old practice, known for its breathtaking hand-sewn suits embellished with beads, feathers, and rhinestones, emerged as a way for African Americans to pay homage to Native Americans who offered them sanctuary during slavery and continues to serve as a powerful symbol of cultural pride and resilience.
“This partnership is a dream come true and an opportunity to share the beauty of Black Masking culture with the world,” said Queen Tahj, who also works as a cybersecurity expert at Microsoft.
“Being the only girl and captain of my middle school team, football has played a tremendous role in my life by teaching me to focus on my dreams without worrying about what society thinks is for girls or boys,” she continued.
“It’s the same spirit of determination that shapes my work today. Just as the NFL connects communities around the world through football, I hope my work brings people together to celebrate the history of New Orleans and inspires future generations to keep our traditions alive.”
For the Super Bowl LIX art, Queen Tahj created a masterpiece that blends tradition and innovation. Her art features bold pinks, deep reds, chartreuses, and lush greens, with each bead meticulously hand-sewn to form a visual symphony that captures both the vibrancy of New Orleans and the dignity of Black Masking culture.
The creation of Black Masking suits, according to Queen Tahj, is a painstaking process that takes over a year to complete, with each suit representing the cornerstone of numerous cultural celebrations, including Mardi Gras, St. Joseph’s Night, and Super Sunday.
Her Super Bowl theme art will be prominently featured on digital game tickets, the official program cover, and on a grand display on the exterior of the Hyatt Regency Hotel, bringing the city to life throughout the week’s celebrations.
“We knew from the start that we wanted this year’s theme art to capture the essence of New Orleans,” said Marissa Solis, NFL senior vice president of global brand and consumer marketing.
“Queen Tahj’s deep connection to her community and extraordinary talent made her the perfect artist for this project. Her work authentically honors the cultural roots of New Orleans while celebrating the city’s vibrant spirit, and we’re excited to spotlight it on the Super Bowl stage and honor the communities that make New Orleans so special.”
Super Bowl LIX will take place at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana, on February 9, 2025. Fans can look forward to seeing Queen Tahj’s unique artwork as part of this historic celebration.
@tessnimo34video by @nolasuperbowlhc At a time when Black culture is slowly being erased, moments like this matter more than ever. For the first time in American history, a Black woman has been chosen to handcraft both the logo and theme art for Super Bowl LIX. Queen Tahj Williams, a 26-year-old artist, and member of the Golden Eagles Tribe in New Orleans whose work is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Big Easy, was given the honor of bringing the city’s rich cultural legacy to one of the biggest stages in sports. Read more here – https://emilycottontop.com/queen-tahj-williams-creates-super-bowl-logo/♬ original sound – tess nimo
