Charles Fazzino: The Pop Artist Bringing Super Bowl LX to Life in 3D
In his studio in New Rochelle, New York, Charles Fazzino, the official artist for Super Bowl LX, continues to carve out a unique niche with his vibrant and playful three-dimensional creations. Born in the Bronx and raised in Pelham Manor, Fazzino, who turned 70 recently, has transformed a simple piece of advice from his father into a globally recognised art form.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Acclaim
After graduating from New York’s School of Visual Arts in 1977, Fazzino heeded his father Salvatore’s counsel to "do something that’s different." With encouragement from his mother Irene, a sculptor, he discovered his passion for 3D pop art during a Greenwich Village art show in 1982. His initial sales of framed pages from an unpublished popout book marked the birth of a new artistic style, characterised by layers, fragments, and assorted embellishments that infuse his works with unexpected depth.
A Legacy in Sports and Entertainment
Fazzino’s subjects span pop culture icons like Elvis Presley and Marilyn Monroe, but he is perhaps best known for his sports-themed artwork. As the NFL’s official artist for Super Bowl LX, set for 8 February 2026 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, this will be his 26th season in the role. His portfolio also includes official art for Major League Baseball’s All-Star Game, the Olympic Games, FIFA World Cup tournaments, and awards ceremonies like the Grammys and Emmys.
His collectors range from sports legends such as Bernie Williams, Mariano Rivera, and the Manning brothers to celebrities like Madonna and pre-presidential Donald Trump. Fazzino’s art adorns locations worldwide, including John F. Kennedy International Airport and the White House Historical Association, with pieces sold in 35 countries.
The Intricate Craft Behind the Art
Fazzino’s 3D technique involves a complex process of cutting, gluing, and layering, often incorporating up to 3,000 individual pieces per work. "In any piece that I do, there are endless hours of cutting and gluing," he explains. Today, he employs dozens of apprentice artists to maintain the handmade quality, allowing him to focus on custom commissions. His mediums extend beyond serigraphs to include embellished sports equipment, such as football helmets glazed at auto body shops and adorned with Swarovski crystals, creating visually stunning sculptures that can fetch over $100,000.
Super Bowl LX and Beyond
For Super Bowl LX, Fazzino’s official poster will feature Levi’s Stadium and Bay Area landmarks, aiming to capture the event’s excitement. He describes his goal as making viewers "feel the emotion" and remember the experience, whether they attended in person or watched on television. Former NFL executive Leo Kane praises Fazzino’s ability to understand and depict what fans cherish, calling his work "visually compelling" and akin to a classic song.
Despite his commercial success, Fazzino aspires to be recognised as a serious artist, with upcoming exhibitions in Germany and Florida. Reflecting on his journey, he says, "Considering how all this started, it’s kind of crazy when I think about it." His legacy continues to grow, blending whimsy with authenticity in every piece.
