Artist Tahj “Queen Tahj” Williams recently had a surreal experience as she witnessed her meticulously handcrafted Super Bowl logo and theme art displayed prominently in downtown New Orleans. Williams' design, paying homage to the vibrant Black Masking culture, has garnered global attention as it adorns various elements of the upcoming Super Bowl event.
Williams, a 26-year-old native of New Orleans, is the first artist to handcraft both the Super Bowl logo and theme art. Her intricate beadwork reflects the essence of her city and celebrates the rich heritage of Black Masking culture, deeply rooted in African and Native American influences.
The elaborate Black Masking suits, adorned with intricate beadwork and feathers, are a central part of New Orleans' cultural celebrations such as Mardi Gras and Super Sunday. Williams' designs feature bold colors like pinks, reds, chartreuses, and greens, blending traditional elements with modern creativity.
Williams' Super Bowl journey began when she was approached by an NFL representative in February 2024. Spending about a month on the beadwork, Williams described the process as peaceful and methodical. Her attention to detail and dedication to her craft have earned her praise from the NFL, recognizing her as the “perfect artist” to represent the cultural roots of New Orleans.
As a cybersecurity engineer at Microsoft, Williams finds solace in her creative pursuits, viewing them as an escape from her day job. She hopes her success will pave the way for other local artists to receive recognition and opportunities from major organizations like the NFL.
Williams, who will be attending her first Super Bowl, looks forward to experiencing the culmination of her artistry on a global stage. She emphasizes the importance of showcasing local talent and hopes that more opportunities will be extended to artists with smaller audiences.
With the Super Bowl festivities approaching, Williams remains excited to see her culture and artistry on full display during the event. Her unique blend of tradition and innovation promises to captivate audiences worldwide, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of New Orleans' cultural heritage.
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