Meet Ira Lujan while he creates his fine art glassworks.

Ira Lujan of Taos/Onkay Owingeh Pueblo incorporates native themes and influences along with ancient techniques to form his glass blown creations. By incorporating everyday Pueblo utilitarian objects and scenes in contemporary Native America, Ira finds freedom of expression through his manipulation of the hot and malleable glass. Although this is a relatively new media to Pueblo people, he is determined to provide contemporary interpretations of traditionally based themes through his chosen medium of glass sculpture.

Ira was first introduced to glass blowing in the summer of 2000 in Taos, NM where he apprenticed with foremost glass artist Tony Jojola of Isleta Pueblo, who brought forth the possibilities of incorporating native themes. Lujan also studied under native glass artist Preston Singletary of Tlingit tribe at Pilchuch Glass School.

Upon receiving the 2007 Southwestern Association for Indian Arts (SWAIA) Fellowship award, Ira designed and built a mobile glass blowing unit, which he wants to transport to different locations throughout the United States to promote both the art of glass sculpture and his personal style of art. Ira is fascinated by the movement of hot glass and the way it captures light, and is excited to be creating Native American Art with this new medium.