Ira C. Smith, Founder of the Leather Masked Ball

Renowned Erotic Artist

Smith has been heralded as a successor to the world renowned Tom of Finland. Upon seeing Smith's work, Finland said himself in a letter, "I am grateful to see that there is someone who will follow in my footsteps when I am gone." Ira C. Smith, husband of long-time Fort Lauderdale Community leader Eric Lawrence, is one of a very small number of men in North America who make their living as artists serving the needs of the Leather Community. Since 1990, Ira’s art has been featured in more than 200 issues of nearly 50 periodicals for gay men.

Through his art, Ira continues to create interest in the Leather Community and invites men to join the brotherhood of Leather Men and the Leather Lifestyle. Six pages of his work can be seen in the book "Stripped" the illustrated man published by Bruno Gmunder. Smith's bibliography is extensive, appearing in a multitude of publications, books, advertisements, around the world. You will find his work hanging in bars & galleries that cater to the needs of those with specific taste in erotica. Numerous works reside in permanent collections including the Tom of Finland Foundation in Los Angeles, the Leslie Lohman Gay Art Foundation in New York and the Leather Archive & Museum in Chicago. Whether seen in the United States or around the world - Ira C. Smith's trademark style is immediately recognized. He contributes his works for fundraiser's benefiting the needs of the community nationwide. Smith's work will be documented as erotic art history in our era.

Smith is a member of Delta International for 11 years and to GMSMA for 18 years. Ira is a founding member of Bound South "The Leather Masked Ball" that has raised over $25,000 for the Leather Archives & Museum and an equal amount was divided with other organizations (Care Resourse, Stonewall Library, Tuesday's Angels). Smith has been a judge for many leather contests across the country.

Smith has received the Leslie Lohman founders award for best in show in 1992 for his illustration "Leather Cap". Smith also did art work for many of the ads from the Lure in New York City to the Ramrod Bar in Fort Lauderdale Florida. Recently Ira won the North East Regional Award at the 19th annual Pantheon Awards. Smith is currently serving on the board of the Leather Archives & Museum.