Cross-Stitch of Woman in Kimono with Fan

Ira Blount · c. 1994

Longtime DC resident Ira Blount was born in Tennessee, but global influences inspired his work. Here, Blount has created an intricate cross-stich embroidery that depicts a woman wearing a floral kimono peering over a fan that partially covers her mouth. She crouches at the edge of water, her head framed by a ring of cascading flowers, while a dragonfly flutters nearby. The needlework piece is characterized by a pastel color palette featuring purples, yellows, and blues, and is notable for its intricate stitching and representation of Japanese culture.