Chair with Painted Cushion

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Object Details

Artist

Ira Blount

Caption

Artist Ira Blount personalized this chair by painting a cushion to decorate the seat. Yellow painted Adinkra symbols from West African tradition adorn the black fabric, representing aphorisms of adaptation, good fortune, and life’s journey, among others. It is possible the symbols are a nod to Blount’s African American heritage. Just as the upholstery has an aesthetic and utilitarian function, for Blount crafting was both decorative and practical because the process cultivated peace of mind.

After moving to Washington, DC following World War II, Ira Blount mastered dozens of artisanal crafts. His love for crafting, learning, and community engagement would endure over the course of his long life and career.

Cite As

Gift of Ira Blount

Date

20th Century

Accession Number

2011.0004.0078

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply

Type

chair

Medium

wood, cloth, paint, glue, and tape

Dimensions

34 1/2 × 18 × 14 in. (87.6 × 45.7 × 35.6 cm)

See more items in

Anacostia Community Museum Collection

Data Source

Anacostia Community Museum

Metadata Usage