Sitting here watching the Super Bowl, I can’t help but think about all the ways art is deeply woven into this event. At the same time, arts programs are constantly on the chopping block. The halftime show, the logo, the choreography, the music. IT IS ALL ART. And not just any art. This year’s Super Bowl was a masterclass in Black excellence, from the logo crafted by a Black woman to the performance choreographed by another powerhouse Black woman. Yet, in places like Fulton County, Georgia, funding for the arts is getting slashed. It doesn’t add up. How can we say we love these massive cultural moments and then turn around and defund the very thing that makes them possible?
The Super Bowl has long been a stage where sports and culture intersect, but Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans elevated this fusion to new heights, showcasing remarkable contributions from Black artists and highlighting the profound impact of the arts on our society.
A Celebration of Black Artistry
This year’s event was distinguished by the groundbreaking work of Tahj “Queen Tahj” Williams, a 26-year-old artist from New Orleans. Williams made history as the first artist to design both the Super Bowl logo and its theme art, infusing the visuals with intricate beadwork that honors the Black Masking tradition; a cultural practice that blends African and Native American heritage. Her designs, featuring vibrant colors and patterns, were prominently displayed on digital game tickets, official programs, and even team jerseys, bringing the rich cultural heritage of New Orleans to a global audience. Super Bowl artist weaves Black Masking culture into vibrant logo and theme art for NFL global stage | AP News
The halftime show further amplified Black excellence, with Kendrick Lamar delivering a performance that was both electrifying and introspective. Joined by over 100 dancers choreographed by Charm La’Donna, Lamar’s set was a meta-commentary on fame and Black identity in mainstream culture. The show featured elaborate stage setups and a surprise appearance by Samuel L. Jackson as Uncle Sam, blending political subversion with entertainment. Kendrick Lamar and the Messy Art of Meta-Performance | The New Yorker
The Paradox of Arts Appreciation and Funding
While the Super Bowl’s celebration of the arts was evident, it stands in stark contrast to the current state of arts funding in parts of the country. In Fulton County, Georgia, for instance, the budget for arts and culture programs was recently cut by 56%, reducing funding from approximately $3 million to $1.3 million. This decision has sparked concern among local arts organizations that depend on these funds to operate and bring cultural vibrancy to Atlanta. Fulton County Commissioners Slash Arts Funding by 56% as Atlanta’s
It’s a perplexing paradox: as a nation, we revel in grand artistic displays during events like the Super Bowl, yet simultaneously, essential support for the arts is being diminished. The economic impact of the arts sector cannot be overstated, with figures from an Atlanta city economic impact study revealing a $16 million tax revenue generation from a $5 million grant investment. Fulton County arts funding | FOX 5 Atlanta
The Imperative of Supporting the Arts
The arts are not merely entertainment; they are a reflection of our collective identity, a medium through which stories are told, cultures are preserved, and social issues are explored. The Super Bowl’s incorporation of Black Masking culture and the powerful halftime performance underscore the profound role that the arts play in shaping societal narratives.
As we celebrate these artistic achievements on such a prominent stage, it’s crucial to recognize the importance of sustaining support for the arts at all levels. Communities thrive when the arts are prioritized, leading to cultural enrichment, economic benefits, and a more inclusive society.
While Super Bowl LIX showcased the pinnacle of artistic expression and cultural celebration, it also serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by the arts community. As spectators, supporters, and citizens, we must advocate for the arts, ensuring that the vibrancy displayed on the Super Bowl stage is mirrored in our communities year-round. More on the Arts and Culture:
More on the Arts and Culture:
For more on the importance of arts funding and cultural preservation, check out these articles on MyOrderedSteps.co:
- Why Arts Funding Matters: Advocating for the Future of the Arts
- The Power of Representation in Ballet
- Women’s History Month Lesson Plans for Elementary School Dance Classes (Kindergarten – 5th Grade)
Happy Dancing!
Taylor B
