HomeNFLWisconsin Wood Artist Turns NFL Draft into a Wooden Masterpiece

Wisconsin Wood Artist Turns NFL Draft into a Wooden Masterpiece

Published on

Wisconsin Wood Artist Ike Wynter has carved his name into NFL history literally. For the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay, Wynter was commissioned by the National Football League to create hand-crafted logos for all 32 teams using only reclaimed wood.

Without paint or stain, he brought each logo to life in a unique and eco-conscious way that stunned fans and league executives alike.

This isn’t just about football logos. It’s about passion, community, legacy, and turning discarded furniture into museum-worthy art.

The NFL Draft Meets Wisconsin Craftsmanship

While millions prepare to tune into the NFL Draft, few realize the effort behind the visuals that decorate the event. This year, the league leaned into the theme of “Built by Community,” and in doing so, they tapped into a local talent Wisconsin Wood Artist Ike Wynter.

Though he had already earned national attention for creating wooden pieces for the Milwaukee Bucks, Brewers, and Chicago Blackhawks, this was an entirely different challenge. Reimagining 32 iconic NFL logos without color, using only wood tones, required not just artistic skill but a deep understanding of each franchise’s identity.

NFL Draft in Green Bay
Credit: fox6now

A Project Rooted in Legacy

Interestingly, this project meant more to Wynter than any before. Among the many logos he recreated, the Buffalo Bills stood out the most. His grandfather, Raymond Kuffel, played for the Bills in the 1940s. Though Wynter never met him, this project provided a powerful connection to his family’s NFL legacy.

“I think he would be proud,” Wynter said. “I’m his grandson doing something related to him 81 years later.”

That personal link added emotional weight to an already monumental task. It’s no wonder that this piece was among the most meaningful in the entire collection.

Inside the Studio of the Wisconsin Wood Artist

Wynter’s studio in Butler, Wisconsin became a warehouse of reclaimed wood furniture—each item sourced with care and purpose. From there, the process was almost alchemical. Entertainment centers and tables were broken down, analyzed for tones, and transformed into logo components like the Eagles’ wings, the Ravens’ beak, or the Patriots’ stars.

“It was like putting together a 3D puzzle made of wood, without a picture on the box,” Wynter explained.

Surprisingly, the process wasn’t as linear as he’d imagined. Instead of working division by division, Wynter adapted to the tones available from each piece of furniture. Sometimes, a color used in the Dolphins’ aqua background would appear again in the Jets’ green shade.

The Time and Labor Behind the Art

This wasn’t just a side project. It took over 700 hours—500 of those in the first 40 days. Wynter worked around the clock, often staying in his studio until sunrise. What kept him going wasn’t just the deadline, but the joy of watching his vision come to life.

“Pulling myself out of the studio was pretty tough because I wanted to stay here and keep building,” he admitted.

After completing each logo, he carefully glued the components together, ensuring the structure was as solid as the concept.

Artistic Direction with NFL’s Vision

Justin Wright, Art Director for the NFL’s Brand Experience Team, said the league was drawn to Wynter’s unique style and community-driven mission. His dedication to sustainability and handcrafted design aligned perfectly with the theme of the 2025 Draft.

“This year’s draft is all about community,” Wright said. “And Ike’s work tells a story that starts at the sidewalk where he finds his wood and ends on the national stage.”

That story, made entirely from reclaimed material, adds a narrative layer to the Draft like never before. As players walk through the tunnel lined with these wooden logos, they’ll be reminded of the tradition, creativity, and labor that supports their moment.

The Final Reveal at the NFL Draft

Wynter’s handcrafted logos won’t be hanging just anywhere. They’ll line the player walkway at the NFL Draft stage, placed in divisions to symbolize the journey each rookie is about to undertake.

While only a select group—about 90 people—will get to see them in person, the impact will resonate through broadcast, social media, and beyond.

As of now, the NFL hasn’t decided what will happen to the logos post-draft, but interest is already growing. Many have reached out wanting to purchase the pieces. However, they currently remain property of the league.

ike-wynter-nfl-draft-artist

Wisconsin Wood Artist and the Future

So, what’s next for the Wisconsin Wood Artist who just completed his biggest project to date?

Wynter himself isn’t entirely sure, jokingly asking, “How do you top doing all 32 teams for the NFL?”

But one thing is certain: his work has redefined what fan art can look like blending craftsmanship, legacy, and eco-conscious design into something unforgettable.

With 50–60 pieces of furniture, hundreds of cuts, and thousands of glue dots, he turned discarded wood into icons. And in doing so, he built more than logos he built a legacy.

Latest articles

Michigan cornerback Will Johnson in the 2025 NFL Draft: What’s Fuelling His Draft-Day Slide?

The narrative surrounding Michigan cornerback Will Johnson in the 2025 NFL Draft has emerged...

Eagles are drafting at the end of the first round; there is plenty of intrigue

The NFL Draft has arrived, and the anticipation is palpable, particularly for the Philadelphia...

2025 NFL Draft Order: When the Detroit Lions Pick

The 2025 NFL draft order: When the Detroit Lions pick is already creating buzz...

Cleveland Browns 2025 Mock Draft: Strategies for Acquiring Travis Hunter and a Franchise Quarterback

The 2025 season mock draft for the Cleveland Browns has intensified, presenting the Browns...

More like this

Michigan cornerback Will Johnson in the 2025 NFL Draft: What’s Fuelling His Draft-Day Slide?

The narrative surrounding Michigan cornerback Will Johnson in the 2025 NFL Draft has emerged...

Eagles are drafting at the end of the first round; there is plenty of intrigue

The NFL Draft has arrived, and the anticipation is palpable, particularly for the Philadelphia...

2025 NFL Draft Order: When the Detroit Lions Pick

The 2025 NFL draft order: When the Detroit Lions pick is already creating buzz...