Why I taught the arts?

When I was a little girl, I wanted to pursue a career in the arts. I choose the arts as a vehicle and outlet for me to express myself through using the arts. If it was not for the love of the arts and I had the opportunity to teach visual arts, literary arts, and dance throughout my community in the past. It gave me the opportunity to express myself as it is related to bullying and culture, especially to minority race.

I taught various art forms such as collage design, abstract painting, drawing, poetry, and dance to children, youth and dance.

SELECTED PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCES

ARTS SPECIALIST. Edlavitch Jewish Community Center of Washington, DC, Washington, D.C. June 20, 2018 - July 25, 2018. Plan and present visual arts classes for students of varying backgrounds and abilities , create a safe, structured, and positive environment for each student; and prepare and disseminate a weekly report for the Program Manager, Justin Love.

SUBSTITUTE TEACHER. DC International School, Washington, D.C. 2016 - 2017. Managed and co-managed select classrooms; provided instructions according to prepared lesson plans; ensure classroom environment that promoted active learning while working with students to reinforce learning objectives as defined by the school; and performed other assigned duties.

AFRICAN DANCE INSTRUCTOR. Roda Movements, Takoma Park, M.D.. 2015 - 2015. Taught a group of young children ages 7 - 9. Students learned a variety of West African Dances, cultural and historical context for each dance with a 1/2 hour warm-up, and energetic dance movements. Students learned a variety of West African Dances, cultural and historical within the context for each dance.

WEST AFRICAN DANCE INSTRUCTOR. M.O.M.I.E.S TLC and YWDEP, Washington, DC. SUMMER 2015 Kingdom Kids Care, Washington, DC. Provided West African dance instruction to a group of students for a Summer Camp program such as M.O.M.I.E.S. TLC and Y.W.D.E.P. Students learned a variety of West African Dances, cultural and historical context for each dance with a 1/2 hour warm-up, and energetic dance movements. Students learned a variety of West African Dances, cultural and historical within the context for each dance. Also provided instruction for students at several other organizations including Kingdom Kids Care, Washington, DC. (July 3, 2013 - July 17, 2013) Hyde Addison Elementary School (May 18, 2013)

SUBSTITUTE DANCE INSTRUCTOR. Joy of Motion Dance Center, Washington, DC. August 2013. Provided dance instruction to students grades 9 -12 in the absence of the studio teacher for the World Intensive Summer Camp.

SUBSTITUTE DANCE INSTRUCTOR. Joy of Motion Dance Center, Washington, DC. 2013 - 2015. Provided dance instruction to children and adults in the absence of the studio teacher. Taught Samba Fusion - All Levels and Afro Beats - All Levels.

AFROBEAT, a dance class that includes a fusion of modern and African upbeat combinations to Nigerian music, inspired by FELA! the musical.

Samba Fusion, a dance workout that brings the benefits of basic samba/axe drills and steps to tone muscles.

SUMMER ACADEMY CAMP PART- TIME ELECTIVE ART TEACHER. Higher Achievement, Washington, DC - Metro. July 1, 2013 - August 1, 2013 (Center City PCS - Capitol Hill Campus); and 2003-2004 (Bruce Monroe Elementary School). Created and implemented a visual arts lesson plan for summer program, specific to 5th - 8th grade students of varying backgrounds and abilities. Students gained knowledge and dexterity in specific forms of visual arts, including abstract painting.

SUBSTITUTE TEACHER. Mundo Verde Public Charter Schools, Washington, DC. December 2013 - 2014. Managed and co-managed select classrooms; provided instructions according to prepared lesson plans; ensure classroom environment that promoted active learning while working with students to reinforce learning objectives as defined by the school; and performed other assigned duties.

AFFILIATED TEACHING ARTIST. Young Playwrights' Theatre (YPT), Washington, DC. October 2012 - May 2013.Planned and presented visual arts classes for first and second grade students of varying backgrounds and abilities , integrating literacy fundamentals within the context of the classroom instruction; created a safe, structured, and positive environment for each student; established my own classroom rules for each student to follow; and prepared and disseminated a weekly report for the Program Manager, Laurie Ascoli.

SUBSTITUTE AFRICAN DANCE PRE - PROFESSIONAL INSTRUCTOR. The Dance Institute of Washington (DIW), Washington, D.C. 2010 - 2012.Provided West African Dance Classes for the Pre-Professional Program targeted for ages 12-21 on Wednesdays.

PAST VISUAL ART WORKSHOPS

Kuumba Arts and Crafts Program (1995-1998). D.C. Department of Recreation (Emery Recreation Center, Parkview Recreation Center, Hamilton Recreation Center and Upshur Recreation Center) from 1997 - 1998 and A - T Seban Mesut (1995- 1998). Sponsored by Ms. Afrika Abney and funded by the D.C. Commission of the Arts, Arts Education Grant Program

Kuumba Expressions Visual Art Workshops (2015 and 2016).Culture Coffee on January 31, 2015 and Potter's House on May 16, 2016 and May 23, 2016. Sponsored by Culture Coffee, Potter's House and Esther Productions, Inc Art Enablers.

SELECTED LITERARY WORKSHOP

Enhancing Our Imaginations funded by the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities. Takoma Park Library, Washington, DC. 2003

COMMUNITY CAREER DAY VISUAL ART WORKSHOPS

2016. Eliot (invited by Ms. Ophelia Morgan).

1996. Calvin Coolidge High School (invited by Ms. Angela Cook)

COMMUNITY CAREER DAY DANCE WORKSHOP

2016. Roots Public Charter School

Vibrant Visions of Faith

Vibrant Visions of Faith. Digital art created on canvas. November 26, 2024. Afrika Abney With the principle of faith, I am fortunate that I graduated from Bell Multicultural High School in 1993 because I felt alone, depressed, traumatized, isolated and discriminated against every time that I stepped inside the school from 1991 - 1993. The colors gold and shades of yellow are deliberately selected to depict optimism, while black represents faith.

DC Black School Leaders

“Nearly 70% of DC principals are black. A majority of those leaders are black women. Over the next few weeks, months, and even years, there will be much questioning about the capabilities and values of a Black and Indian woman on an international stage. This will inevitably be challenging for many people, particularly black women, who are disproportionately subjected to such critique and skepticism. Black women have a vital role in education and, as demonstrated time and again, in our political landscape. If our students are going to experience the consistency, justice and academic experience we know they deserve, taking care of ourselves is not a luxury—it's imperative.” NationHouse Anniversary 1980s I gave away this outfit many years ago. I am a proud alum of NationHouse Positive Action Center, a private African-American school that played a significant role in shaping my identity and instilling a deep sense of cultural pride. From the dedicated guidance of Baba Agyei Ak...

Trust and Innovation

Every morning, I present my digital artwork, showcasing the various color choices I have made. This practice not only highlights my creative process but also offers potential viewers insights about my digital art that I have created the previous night or the next day after my restful sleep. By sharing these insights, I aim to engage my audience and foster a deeper appreciation for my digital art. For example, the color blue holds a profound significance in my artistic endeavors, embodying the limitless nature of the sky while simultaneously fostering a sense of trust and innovation. As a cool hue and one of the primary colors, blue offers a rich tapestry of interpretations that connect with individuals on various emotional planes. By weaving this color into my artwork, I seek to instill a feeling of serenity and inspiration, prompting viewers to engage with the deeper emotional narratives that my pieces convey. Blue serves as a powerful symbol of the expansive sky, evoking...

The importance of accuracy in the digital age

Quote found on the Internet “In the contemporary digital landscape, the significance of precision cannot be overstated. As information is disseminated at an unprecedented rate through various online platforms, the need for accurate data has become paramount. Inaccuracies can lead to misinformation, which not only misguides individuals but can also have far-reaching consequences for businesses, governments, and society as a whole. The reliance on digital tools and resources necessitates a commitment to ensuring that the information shared and consumed is both reliable and verifiable. The digital era has transformed the way we access and interpret information, making accuracy a critical component of effective communication. With the proliferation of social media and online news outlets, the potential for errors and misleading content has increased significantly. This environment underscores the necessity for individuals and organizations to prioritize fact-checking and valida...

Vibrant Devotion

Vibrant Devotion. Digital art created on canvas. December 31, 2024. Afrika Abney The colors associated with Faith include red, blue, purple and green in referencing beliefs. I strongly believe that lies, rumors, gossip and secrets jeopardize all relationships.

Creative Chronicles

Creative Chronicles. Digital art created on canvas. October 26, 2024. Afrika Abney At the time when digital art began in the 1980s, I was 4 - 13 and a student at NationHouse. I did not start creating digital art until 2009. With over a decade of experience in digital art, I have honed my skills in various techniques and styles. I specialize in creating captivating and visually stunning digital artworks that evoke emotion and tell a story. Upon waking up from my restful sleep and unaware of the discussions taking place, I began to implement my routine and examine my digital art. Creative Chronicles using vibrant colors and varied brush techniques.

Narrative Layers

Narrative Layers. Digital art created on canvas. October 2, 2024. Afrika Abney I created Narrative Layers, a digital abstract painting, using layered brushstrokes and vibrant colors with the focal color - red. Red represents determination, courage, resilience, and creativity. According to my research, “layered brushstrokes serve as a powerful representation of the different phases of artistic expression and emotional depth. Each stroke adds a unique texture and dimension, reflecting my evolving thoughts and feelings throughout the creative process. This technique not only enhances the visual appeal of the piece but also invites viewers to engage with the underlying story that unfolds within the layers. Ultimately, the culmination of these layered brushstrokes results in a finished piece that resonates with a profound narrative.”

Promoting cultural expression through literature and the arts

I am actively involved in offering my services, brand, and creating digital artwork. On August 27,2024 and August 29, 2024, I personally distributed flyers to promote an upcoming event organized by Esther Productions Inc., The Institute for African American Writing, and The Black Student Fund. This event is set to occur on September 14, 2024, at the Tenley Library, and it promises to be an enriching experience for all attendees. The event will take place from 2 PM to 4 PM, providing a fantastic opportunity for participants to delve into the realms of poetry and prose. It aims to celebrate the richness of African American literature and foster a deeper appreciation for the art of writing. Attendees can expect a vibrant atmosphere filled with engaging discussions and performances that highlight the talents of various writers and poets. By attending this event, individuals will not only enjoy a captivating afternoon but also connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for li...

The complexities of identity

“The complexities of identity are integrating one's past, present, and future into a cohesive, unified sense of self is a complex task that begins in adolescence and continues for a lifetime. Identity in the workplace can be complex and have significant implications for workplace culture. Here are some ways identity can impact the workplace: Intersectionality A person's identity can be a combination of overlapping identities, such as race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, ethnicity, age, religion, and regional background. This can lead to a disconnect between how a person views themselves and how others view them. For example, someone may experience both privilege and oppression, or multiple forms of disadvantage. Unconscious bias Leaders bring their own worldviews, shaped by their identities, into the workplace, which can reflect their values and beliefs in the corporate culture.” The complexities of identity. Digital art created on canvas. August 9, 2024. Afr...

Green Essence

“Green is a color that resonates deeply with themes of prosperity and accomplishment. It represents not only the physical aspects of growth and renewal but also the emotional and spiritual vitality that comes from achieving goals. The presence of this color can serve as an inspiring reminder of the fruitful results that often follow diligent work and unwavering dedication.” I have successfully cultivated a portfolio of artwork sales to prestigious clients, including Esther Productions, Inc., which has allowed me to forge robust relationships grounded in trust and the delivery of high-quality work. My overarching goal is to produce artwork that captivates and engages diverse audiences, while simultaneously fostering enduring connections within the art community. This commitment to excellence not only enhances my reputation but also contributes to a vibrant artistic dialogue. With a solid history of building a dedicated client base, I have consistently generated repeat business and...

Ms. Afrika Abney - Consultant Branding Blog

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