Butterflies and flowers decorate this origami kimono, notable for its gray and pink color palette. The traditional Japanese garment is mounted on a solid blue background, drawing attention to the blue undertones in the pattered paper. Both the subject matter of the kimono and the origami form evidence of artist Ira Blount’s (1918-2020) interest in incorporating different cultural traditions into his work.
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.