Text honoring Ndebele women artists contextualizes this colorful beaded design mounted on black paper. A green symmetrical shape outlined in black and white is set on a blue background. The piece visually embodies the simplicity, bright colors, and bold abstract patterns that the caption, and by extension, the artist, attributes to Ndebele art. Pairing the writing with the artwork illuminates one of the many global traditions informing local artist Ira Blount’s work. It simultaneously demonstrates his willingness to break gendered stereotypes and credit Black women artists and makers.
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.
