Photo: Getty Images
New Orleans artist Tahj “Queen Tahj” Williams has made Super Bowl history as the first person to handcraft its logo and theme art.
According to the Associated Press, the NFL commissioned Williams to bring Mardi Gras to life in its Super Bowl branding for the championship matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans.
The meticulously stitched beadwork created in Williams' sewing room is now on display throughout downtown New Orleans and to viewers across the world. She is the first person to handcraft both the Super Bowl logo and theme art.
Williams said she wanted her design to reflect the spirit of the city through Black Masking culture, a blend of African and Native American heritage rooted in the 1800s.
“I come from a great and beautiful culture, and I want the world to see it the same way as I do,” Williams said.
Black Masking culture is often found in elaborate, hand-sewn suits, adorned with intricate beadwork and feathers and worn for Mardi Gras. Williams' Super Bowl design features bold pinks, reds, chartreuses, and greens, paying homage to Mardi Gras colors and ancestral history.
“I always try to do some kind of bright colors because bright colors speak to me,” Williams said.
“They remind me of the happiest times in my life,” she added. “The design itself comes from New Orleans' deep-rooted architecture. The historical parts of the city. We’re known for food, the second-line band, you see the French Quarter.”
Williams’ theme art and logo are featured on digital game tickets, the official program cover, term jerseys, the game ball, and more. The NFL said Williams was the "perfect artist" to honor the cultural roots of New Orleans.
“The culture and artistry will be on display for the Super Bowl,” Williams said. “I’m looking forward to it.”
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