Skip to main content

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

Popular posts from this blog

SkyBlend Serenity

  SkyBlend Serenity. Digital art created on canvas. October 5, 2024. Afrika Abney   SkyBlend Serenity harmoniously merges the hues of light blue-green and green, each color carefully selected for its representation of serenity. The interplay of these shades evokes a sense of calmness and peace. 

Esther Productions, Inc and the Black Student Fund presents INSIDE JOB WRITING INSTITUTE: The Art of Personal Essay Writing WORKSHOP lead by Ms. Jonetta Rose Barras

Esther Productions, Inc and the Black Student Fund presents INSIDE JOB WRITING INSTITUTE: The Art of Personal Essay Writing WORKSHOP lead by Ms. Jonetta Rose Barras October 22nd 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM EDT 1201 24th St NW Washington, DC 20037, USA https://www.estherproductionsinc.com/events-1/inside-job-writing-institute-the-art-of-personal-essay-writing-2022-10-22-10-30 Jonetta Barras - President and CEO of Esther Productions Inc She is an award-winning journalist and best-selling author. Ms. Barras has more than 20 years experience reporting and commenting on national social, political, and cultural trends, including as an opinion writer with The Washington Post, Washington Examiner and Washington City Paper. ​She founded Esther Productions Inc. in 2004 after the publication of her Black Board bestseller Whatever Happened to Daddy's Little Girl: The Impact of Fatherlessness on Black Women (Ballantine 2000, hardcover—2001, paperback). She has spoken at more than two-dozen national and...

How I became a consultant?

I became a consultant while I was a student attending Bell Multicultural High School. I  participated in the Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton's Congressional Art Competition in 1992 and 1993. During this time, I also had other opportunities where I was able to provide my services. These opportunities allowed me to utilize my formal training and education in the visual arts component to offer and provide services  to companies, small businesses, individuals and other places. I attended Bell from 1991-1993. I graduated in 1993 and was 16 at that time. Years later, I donated the painting shown in the above photo. Additionally, I gave away the clothing articles and jewelry shown in the photo above. I have successfully implemented numerous creative strategies using my abstract art and background in the visual arts to achieve excellent creative campaigns for each individual event that I have provided services as a consultant.   ​As a consultant, I believe the key to a s...

Today's Inspiration

My days have been filled with a blend of research and creativity, as I immerse myself in the soothing melodies of the birds chirping just outside my window. This natural symphony serves as a backdrop to my digital art projects, where I channel my inspiration into vibrant creations that reflect both my inner thoughts and the beauty of the world around me. Each stroke and pixel is a testament to my dedication, as I strive to capture the essence of my surroundings while exploring new artistic techniques. Recently, I have also ventured into the realm of event services, where I leverage my skills as a consultant to offer valuable insights and support. This new endeavor allows me to connect with clients and help them bring their visions to life, whether it’s through strategic planning or creative direction. The excitement of collaborating with others and contributing to memorable experiences adds a dynamic layer to my work, making each project unique and fulfilling. Balancing my research, a...

Luminous Holiday Oak

  Luminous Holiday Oak. Digital art created on canvas. November 26, 2024. Afrika Abney 

Creative Sparks

  Creative Sparks. Digital art created on canvas. December 30, 2024. Afrika Abney 

Structured routine

  Quote found on the Internet  Each day, I immerse myself in a structured routine that revolves around my passion for digital art. Utilizing various software tools, I bring my creative visions to life, pouring my energy into each piece I create. Alongside this artistic endeavor, I dedicate time to thorough research, delving into topics that inspire my work and expand my knowledge. The soothing sounds of nature filtering through my window provide a calming backdrop, allowing me to focus deeply on my tasks without distraction. My schedule is packed, leaving little room for idle chatter or the temptation to eavesdrop on the conversations around me. I find myself fully engaged in a multitude of projects, each demanding my attention and creativity. The services I offer require a significant investment of time and effort, and I take pride in delivering quality results. This commitment to my work means that I prioritize my responsibilities, ensuring that I remain productive and focus...

My Charter School Experiences

In 1992, I did not attend a charter school. I have had a wide range opportunities that took place at various schools. I have not provided any services for schools as a consultant for a while. Among them include when I served as a substitute teacher for Mundo Verde PCS in 2013, I can recall working with some of the students and staff and sharing my passion and extensive background in visual arts. Additionally, I can recall when I served as a substitute teacher for DC International School. I knew a little bit of Spanish, but as a professional visual artist, I really enjoyed sharing my love and extensive background in visual arts with the students and some of the staff members at DC International from 2016-2017. Also when I served as an art elective Summer Camp teacher for Higher Achievement in 2013, the program took place at Center City Capitol Hill Campus. Providing each of these services in the past were a great opportunity for me. However, since these experiences, I have directed my ...

Conversations on art quotes

"If you could say it in words there would be no reason to paint." - " Edward Hopper's quote suggests that there is a deep satisfaction that comes from meaningful conversation." Quote found on the Internet Ms. Afrika Abney is a dynamic artist specializing in creating captivating abstract paintings on canvas. Some of her most recent work blends vibrant colors and intricate textures to evoke feelings of tranquility and energy. Each piece showcases a unique interplay of colors, particularly shades of green and blue, making them versatile additions to modern spaces. In January 2024, she created 5 abstract paintings on canvas board using acrylic. January 1, 2024 5” Femininity Acrylic on canvas board Afrika Abney This captivating abstract painting features a woman elegantly dressed in a vibrant green gown, exuding a sense of grace and sophistication. The artist skillfully captures the essence of femininity through bold brushstrokes and a harmonious color palette, makin...

Honor of Courage

  Quote found on the Internet  Numerous quotes can be found on the Internet. Also there are numerous apps that have quotes.  Yesterday, I found this quote and found it insightful. I love incorporating quotes with my digital abstract painting.  Honor of Courage. Digital art created on canvas. October 19, 2024. Afrika Abney