Lizard Wall Hanging

This wall hanging is made of three pieces of woven cloth. The central section is painted with a white lizard surrounded by four symbols, with three interspersed brass ornaments and a carved wood pendant. The lizard’s tail, neck, and body are beaded. The top and bottom sections of the hanging are made of a rust-colored cloth printed with a row of black chevrons and notched lines. Artist Ira Blount stated that he was aiming for an African aesthetic.

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.