The artist behind Super Bowl LIX’s logo has deep New Orleans roots, and the artwork represents the city’s history. Tahj “Queen Tahj” Williams blends Black New Orleans culture with the Super Bowl through the logo and theme art to celebrate the Big Easy’s heritage and history.

Super Bowl Art

The logo and artwork were inspired by black Masking, a tradition created by Black Americans who were barred from mainstream Mardi Gras celebrations for over 100 years. The Black Masking tradition dates back to the 1800s and involves elaborate suits worn by participants. These suits are made of thousands of beads, feathers, and artwork.

Preserving tradition and history was the ultimate goal of Queen Tahj, a member of the Golden Eagles Tribe. At the center of the vibrant logo is theme art that combines bright red, green, and yellow colors with a beadwork pattern. In addition, Williams is the first Black woman to handcraft both the Super Bowl logo and theme art for Super Bowl LIX.

“This partnership is a dream come true and an opportunity to share the beauty of Black Masking culture with the world,” Williams said.

In addition to the logo, the world will see Williams’ artwork on the digital game tickets, the official program cover, and a stunning installation on the Hyatt Regency New Orleans exterior. Williams is attending the Super Bowl for the first time this year but isn’t stopping there. “I’m going to pretty much be at everything around the city, whether I’m directly involved in it or not,” she said. “I try to do my best to show up for the city and this culture.”

Furthermore, the NFL said it sought an artist to represent the city and its culture. NFL officials believe they found that in Williams.

“We knew from the start that we wanted this year’s theme art to capture the essence of New Orleans,” explained 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.”