Super Bowl LIX Celebrates New Orleans’ Legacy Through the Art of Queen Tahj

An Unforgettable Fusion of Sport, Culture, and the Black Masking Tradition

As Super Bowl LIX prepares to take center stage in New Orleans, the celebration of football’s grandest event extends beyond the field and into the city’s rich cultural fabric. This year, the NFL has tapped Tahj 'Queen Tahj' Williams, a renowned New Orleans artist and master of Black Masking beadwork, to create the Super Bowl LIX logo and theme art—marking the first time in history that a local artist has been commissioned for this prestigious honor.

A Legacy Woven in Beads and Tradition

For Queen Tahj, artistry is more than creative expression—it’s an act of cultural preservation. As a member of the Golden Eagles Tribe, she is deeply rooted in the Black Masking tradition, an intricate craft of hand-sewn beadwork passed down through generations. The tradition, a fusion of African and Native American heritage, was born from a time when African Americans were excluded from mainstream Mardi Gras celebrations. Over time, it evolved into an elaborate and powerful art form, celebrated across St. Joseph’s Night, Super Sunday, and now, the global stage of the Super Bowl.

The Super Bowl LIX theme art, a stunning composition of bold pinks, deep reds, chartreuse, and lush greens, embodies both the spirit of New Orleans and the vibrancy of the Black Masking tradition. With intricate hand-sewn patterns, Queen Tahj’s design fuses history with modern creativity, representing a city where culture, resilience, and artistry intertwine.

From the Streets of New Orleans to the Super Bowl Stage

Beyond the artwork, Queen Tahj’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and breaking barriers. A former middle school football captain, she speaks of how the sport instilled in her a relentless drive to follow her dreams, regardless of societal expectations. “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,” she shares.

Her work will be impossible to miss during Super Bowl week, prominently displayed across digital game tickets, the official program cover, and a grand-scale installation at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans. This collaboration isn’t just about the NFL embracing local artistry—it’s a historic moment of cultural recognition, ensuring that New Orleans sees itself reflected in the spectacle of Super Bowl LIX.

The NFL’s Commitment to Cultural Celebration

Queen Tahj’s selection is part of a larger initiative by the NFL to honor local communities and traditions. Marissa Solis, NFL Senior Vice President of Global Brand and Consumer Marketing, emphasizes the significance of this collaboration: “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.”

As Caesars Superdome prepares to host Super Bowl LIX on February 9, 2025, Queen Tahj’s artwork will serve as a symbol of unity, tradition, and the soul of New Orleans. In a city where art, music, and sports collide, this year’s Super Bowl isn’t just about the game—it’s about celebrating the stories, legacies, and communities that make New Orleans one of the most culturally rich cities in the world.