New Orleans artist Tahj “Queen Tahj” Williams, recently found herself captivated by an unexpected sight in downtown New Orleans. Her intricately designed Super Bowl logo, inspired by the rich Black Masking culture, was beautifully displayed across buildings near the iconic Caesars Superdome. This moment marked the beginning of the global showcase of her artwork, as millions prepare to watch the Super Bowl and visitors gather in the vibrant city.
At the tender age of 26, Williams made history by becoming the first artist to handcraft both the Super Bowl logo and theme art. Her artistry serves as a splendid tribute to Black Masking culture—a tradition that infuses the ancestral heritage of African and Native American communities. Introduced to this culture by her uncle, Williams' work is a fusion of vibrant imagery and rich storytelling, reflecting the dynamic spirit of New Orleans.
Her designs, characterized by bold pinks, deep reds, chartreuse, and lush greens, manage to artfully merge traditional elements with modern creativity. This colorful palette is deeply rooted in the Black Masking Indian suits that Williams crafts for Mardi Gras—a central component of significant celebrations such as Mardi Gras, St. Joseph’s Night, and Super Sunday. The handcrafted suits, ornate with beadwork and feathers, stand as a testimony to the enduring legacy of her cultural heritage.
Williams explains, Bright colors speak to me. They remind me of the happiest times in my life. Her designs also draw inspiration from New Orleans' architectural elegance, capturing the essence of the city's historical landscape, renowned cuisine, and vibrant music scene.
The artistic journey for this unique Super Bowl project commenced when Williams was approached by an NFL representative via social media in February 2024. The month-long process of meticulous beadwork began with the Roman numerals LIX (59), following a methodical approach that ensured each aspect of the logo was perfectly integrated. For Williams, creativity acts as a serene escape from her day job as a cybersecurity engineer at Microsoft.
Williams remarks on her creative process, It's all about mindset. I don't look at the whole piece at once because that can be discouraging. Instead, I focus on individual patches, working step-by-step. Her focused strategy allowed her to embrace the peace within the process and bring to fruition a design that honored the cultural roots of New Orleans seamlessly.
While Williams gains newfound recognition, she highlights the need for larger organizations to tap into the talent of local artists. It's crucial for big organizations to engage with artists that may not have massive followings. Their work is equally remarkable, she articulates. Her hope is that more opportunities will arise for talented local artists who often go unnoticed.
A former middle school football player, Williams eagerly anticipates attending her first Super Bowl. Throughout this journey, she plans to keep memorabilia such as a jacket adorned with lapel pins and a light-up Bud Light sign, despite not being a fan of beer.
As Super Bowl Sunday approaches, Williams is filled with anticipation. Displaying culture and artistry during the Super Bowl is a dream come true, she says. Her contributions not only celebrate her heritage but also introduce a global audience to the vibrant traditions of New Orleans.
For additional insights on the Super Bowl, follow the event's updates through trusted news platforms.
