An NFL game ball designed by Quentin Commanda, an artist from Nipissing First Nation in northern Ontario, is displayed at NFL Canada’s headquarters in Toronto in an undated handout photo. The ball, a commission for NFL Canada, is part of the league’s lead-up to Super Bowl LIX, which will be held in New Orleans. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO-NFL Canada, Kyle Boham
Quentin Commanda, an artist from Nipissing First Nation, has created a special football for Super Bowl LIX. The 44-year-old, also known as Que Rock, was chosen by NFL Canada to design an official football as part of the lead-up to Sunday’s big game in New Orleans.
Commanda’s design is inspired by Anishinaabe teachings, featuring the strawberry (o’demin), which represents heart. He believes heart is a big part of football and wanted his artwork to create a healing and educational experience. His design also includes nature’s four elements, the medicine wheel, and a visual land acknowledgment.
Wilson’s factory in Ohio produced 50 footballs with Commanda’s design. Some will be displayed at NFL and Football Canada events, while others will go to grassroots programs and the Dream Catcher Foundation.
Commanda, who once dreamed of playing in the NFL, now feels like he’s part of an all-star team through his art.
Written by Jeremy Hall with files from The Canadian Press