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

Akoma Drummers Past Services

I have thrown away the clothes shown in all three photos. Photos taken by Mr. Benny J. at All Souls Church during the performance held on January 4, 2016. On January 4, 2016, I had the opportunity to provide my services for an event featuring the Akoma Drummers, which was held at All Souls Church in Washington, DC. The Akoma Drummers are recognized as a prominent West African drum troupe based in the capital, known for their vibrant performances that celebrate cultural heritage and community engagement. The Akoma Drummers "are a West African drum troupe based in Washington DC." "KRISTEN ARANT is a percussionist, vocalist, teaching artist and activist living and working in the Washington, DC region. Originally a classically-trained oboe player with a degree in music, she began her drumming career upon moving to Washington DC in 2000, when she helped initiate the activist drumming ensemble Rhythm Workers Union, known for its hand-built drum cart the “MotherDrumShip,” a...

Patterned Brushstrokes #1-3

Patterned Brushstrokes #1-3. Digital art created on canvas. November 6, 2024. Afrika Abney Bringing creativity and inspiration to the world through my unique use of patterned brushstrokes. Patterned Brushstrokes #1.Digital art created on canvas. November 6, 2024. Afrika Abney Patterned Brushstrokes #2.Digital art created on canvas. November 6, 2024. Afrika Abney Patterned Brushstrokes #3.Digital art created on canvas. November 6, 2024. Afrika Abney

March is Women's History Month - Mama Nkechi Taifa

" Nkechi Taifa is an attorney, activist, scholar, motivational speaker and author. A native Washingtonian, she has been part of many movements for justice throughout the decades - the Black Power Movement, the New Afrikan Independence Movement, the Anti-Apartheid Movement, the Movement to Free Political Prisoners, the Reparations Movement, and the Movement to End Mass Incarceration. Incensed that books for Black children failed to highlight freedom fighters, she authored a book in her twenties, "Shining Legacy: Storypoems and Tales for the Young, So Black Heroes Forever Will Be Sung," (1983) followed by "The Adventures of Kojo and Ama" (1992). She describes her latest book, "Black Power, Black Lawyer: My Audacious Quest for Justice," as "part memoir, part textbook, part study guide, part expose'." Although sometimes raw, sometimes abrasive, sometimes passionate, Taifa offers her truth, unapologetically and unfiltered, with honesty an...

Harmony of Tones

Harmony of Tones. Digital art created on canvas. October 7, 2024. Afrika Abney

Registration Closed for African Americans and Children's Literature: A Symposium and Exhibition (AACL)

The registration for African Americans and Children's Literature: A Symposium and Exhibition (AACL) held on March 2nd has been closed as of Feb 23, 2024. This event is curated by award-winning author and public scholar jonetta rose barras in partnership with humanities scholar Bernard Demczuk Ph.D. ,The Black Student Fund, The Institute for African American Writing, Teaching for Change, Social Justice Books, Buck Wild Media, and Lesa Warrick. Major funding has been provided by HumanitiesDC with additional support from Kerry S. Pearson LLC, and BusBoys and Poets. estherproductionsinc.com/aachildrensliterature

When do you feel the most courageous?

Each day, I find myself embodying a profound sense of courage that shapes my actions and decisions. Over the span of more than thirty years, I have encountered a multitude of situations that demanded bravery, often pushing me to tap into my inner strength. These experiences have not only tested my limits but have also reinforced the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. Reflecting on the past three decades, I can recall countless moments where I was compelled to summon this vital quality. Whether it was standing up for my beliefs or making difficult choices, each instance has contributed to a deeper understanding of what it means to be truly courageous. As I continue to embrace this journey, I recognize that courage is not merely the absence of fear but rather the determination to act despite it. The lessons learned from my experiences have shaped my character and instilled a sense of confidence that propels me forward. With every challenge I face, I am reminded that...

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.

Past School Shooting Experiences

“During my time as a student from 1978 to 1993, I encountered several heartbreaking incidents of school shootings that took place in the vicinity of my school. Each of these events left a profound impact on me and my peers, creating an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty that overshadowed our educational experiences. The weight of such tragedies is difficult to articulate, but it is clear that they demand urgent attention and action to prevent further loss of life and to foster a safer environment for future generations. To truly address the issue of gun violence and its devastating effects on schools, we must engage in open and honest discussions about these incidents. It is essential that school assemblies serve as a platform for dialogue, where students can express their feelings and concerns in a supportive environment. Beyond the coverage by newspaper reporters and journalists, it is crucial for educators and administrators to facilitate these conversations, allowing students to pr...

Diverse collection of acrylic paintings on canvas board

On March 1, 2024, talented and innovative artist, Ms. Afrika Abney created a diverse collection of acrylic paintings on canvas board, each capturing the essence of movement, tranquility, and beauty through vibrant color palettes and dynamic compositions. Among them include Dynamic Movement, Tranquility, Serene Tranquility, Untitled and Beauty and Elegance. The artist's signature style reflects a mastery of brushwork and color theory, making each piece a perfect fit for modern and contemporary spaces. March 1, 2024 5”. Dynamic Movement Acrylic on canvas board Afrika Abney This stunning painting depicts a powerful green and blue wave, capturing the dynamic movement and energy of the ocean. March 1, 2024 5” Tranquility Acrylic on canvas board Afrika Abney This captivating abstract painting features a mesmerizing blue wave, evoking a sense of movement and tranquility. The varying shades of blue create a dynamic and calming visual experience, making it a perfect addition to any modern ...

East of the Anacostia River

““East of the River” was simply a geographical description without particular significance. But, it later became how some describe the neighborhoods east of the Anacostia River — often with a negative connotation. During the 1930s and 1940s, land development of the area continued alongside increased racial diversification of the region. At the end of World War II, white flight into suburban Maryland and Virginia resulted in a majority-Black Anacostia. The Anacostia River watershed in the District of Columbia and Maryland is home to more than 800,000 people, 43 species of fish and some 200 species of birds. The watershed has been heavily urbanized over time, losing 6,500 acres of wetlands and 70% of its forest cover. Over the past four centuries the Anacostia has been given many names: the Eastern Branch of the Potomac, the other national river, the dirtiest river in the nation, the forgotten river.” I am dedicated to making a difference in the lives of individuals and famil...

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