Visa Global Art Collection for FIFA World Cup 26™ Reveled in Miami

Visa has officially launched its first-ever global art collection, celebrating the engaging cultural energy of the FIFA World Cup 26™. Unveiled at Miami’s “The Art of the Draw” showcase, this groundbreaking initiative brings together more than twenty artists from six continents, each interpreting the spirit of football through their unique artistic lens. As the world anticipates the largest FIFA World Cup in history, Visa’s project with Pharrell William’s JOOPITER stands out for its bold fusion of creativity, commerce, and global sport.

The FIFA World Cup 26™ is set to be a record-breaking event, with 48 nations competing across 16 host cities. For the first time, Visa is harnessing this global stage to amplify the voices of emerging artists and creative entrepreneurs. The debut event in Miami, “The Art of the Draw,” was hosted by multidisciplinary fashion designer and creator KidSuper and featured the first five pieces in the collection, spotlighting the work of Darien Birks, Nathan Walker, Cesar Canseco, Ivan J. Roque, and Rafael Mayani.

Each artwork in the collection is a visual narrative rooted in the traditions and culture of the host countries, with a special focus on Miami’s dynamic creative scene. The full collection will be unveiled globally ahead of next summer’s tournament, promising fans and collectors a diverse array of perspectives on football’s unifying power. For the first five artists, Miami during the Art Basel in Miami comes as a perfect moment.

Darien Birks (USA):  An acclaimed illustrator and design director, Darien Birks brings a unique blend of nostalgia and storytelling to his work. Formerly an art director at Nike, Birks now explores pop culture, portraiture, and everyday objects through expressive illustration and disciplined design.

Nathan Walker (USA):  Based in Austin, Texas, Nathan Walker is known for his striking, character-driven art that pulses with energy and personality. With a background in street art and a passion for sports, Walker’s work is visually striking and fresh, embodying the competitive spirit of the World Cup.

Cesar Canseco (Mexico): A freelance illustrator from Mexico City, Cesar Canseco’s art explores the human form, light, and color. Influenced by 20th-century Mexican muralists, Canseco’s pieces are rich in emotional resonance and dynamic storytelling, offering a deep, introspective take on football culture.

Rafael Mayani (Canada):  Vancouver-based illustrator Rafael Mayani studied industrial design in Mexico City and visual arts in Barcelona. His signature style comes marked by vibrant color and whimsy, appears in picture books and editorial illustrations, making him a standout in the global art scene.

Ivan J. Roque (USA):  Miami-born Cuban American muralist Ivan J. Roque reflects the city’s color, rhythm, and cultural blend in his work. With collaborations ranging from McDonalds to Formula One, Roque’s murals have appeared in major cities worldwide. He was recognized with the 2024 National Mural Award for his impact on public art.

Visa’s global art collection is more than a showcase, it’s a platform for empowerment. In partnership with JOOPITER, the digital-first content and commerce platform founded by Pharrell Williams, Visa is uplifting creators by turning artistic expression into real opportunity. JOOPITER’s commitment to supporting artists and collectors makes it the ideal partner for bringing these works to a global audience. Fans and collectors can view and purchase limited-edition pieces from the collection at joopiter.com. This collaboration ensures the artists’ work reaches new audiences throughout the FIFA World Cup 26™, driving both cultural and economic impact. It is also a striking and much needed spotlight on the art of illustration, in the overwhelming time of AI created ‘artwork’.

Visa’s initiative also recognizes that today’s artists are entrepreneurs navigating crowded digital marketplaces. By providing a global stage, Visa amplifies their voices and offers pathways to growth, whether they’re working from a studio apartment or running a boutique. Each piece in the collection transforms lived football experiences into bold visual stories, connecting communities and inspiring the next generation of creators. Frank Cooper III, Chief Marketing Officer of Visa, summed up the vision: “Artists help make the invisible seen, provoke new ways of thinking, and unify us through the artifacts they create. Our work with JOOPITER allows us to tell the stories behind the artifacts and to remind us that creativity is the lifeblood of culture and commerce, even in the world of football.”

As anticipation builds for the FIFA World Cup 26™, the Visa global art collection is set to become a much needed cultural touchstone, mixing the worlds of sport, creativity, and commerce with help from Pharrell’s JOOPITER. The art infused initiative brings fans closer to the game, celebrates the diversity of football traditions, and empowers artists to share their vision with millions worldwide.