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

Simple White

  The necessity for acquiring whiteboards has diminished for me, as I ceased offering educational services back in 2018. Since that time, my focus has shifted entirely. I have been working on my branding and digital art where I utilize various digital applications to express my creativity. In this context, the color white serves a significant purpose, often representing simplicity and clarity in my artistic endeavors.    “The concept of Simple White embodies the essence of minimalism, where the purity of the color white acts as an open canvas for creativity and innovation, allowing ideas to flourish without the distractions of complexity. The color white encourages a harmonious balance between creativity and tranquility.”

Describe yourself in three words

I am an African - American, creative, and intuitive. Dynamic and innovative African-American professional with a strong creative flair and intuitive problem-solving skills. Adept at thinking outside the box to develop unique solutions and strategies that drive success. Committed to leveraging creativity and intuition to enhance projects, foster collaboration, and contribute positively to team environments. Passionate about utilizing diverse perspectives to inspire growth and deliver exceptional results.

My Zoo Experiences

  I have thrown away many clothing articles  including the ones shown in the above photo.  Zoo  2015 Throughout the years, I have had the opportunity to visit the Zoo on multiple occasions, spanning from the 1980s to 2018. During this time, I engaged with various community centers and educational institutions, offering my expertise and support to students. My involvement was particularly focused between 2009 and 2018, a period during which I dedicated significant effort to enhancing the educational experiences of young learners.

Challenge to Triumph

  Based on my research, “in 1985, the African American community was navigating a complex landscape marked by both challenges and progress. This period was characterized by a growing awareness of civil rights issues, as well as a burgeoning cultural renaissance that celebrated African American identity and contributions. The decade was pivotal in the ongoing struggle for equality, with many individuals and organizations advocating for social justice, economic opportunities, and political representation. The legacy of the civil rights movement continued to influence activism, as new generations sought to address systemic inequalities and injustices faced by African Americans. During this time, the cultural scene was vibrant and dynamic, with significant contributions to music, literature, and the arts. The rise of hip-hop and the popularity of R&B and soul music reflected the experiences and aspirations of African Americans, while also serving as a platform for social commentary...

Autumn’s Raindrops

  Autumn’s Raindrops. Digital art created on canvas. September 25, 2024. Afrika Abney “Autumn arrived three days ago, the rain transforms the landscape into a picturesque scene reminiscent of a painting. The air becomes crisp and invigorating, filled with the earthy scent of damp soil and decaying leaves. As the rain falls on this Wednesday morning, it nourishes the ground, preparing it for the winter ahead, while also inviting a sense of calm and introspection. The rhythmic sound of raindrops tapping against windows serves as a reminder to slow down and appreciate the fleeting moments of this enchanting season.”

Creative Focus

I have no clue what you are discussing because I am busy minding my own business. Driven by a passion for creativity and a commitment to excellence, I have been focusing on my branding, digital art and providing services. I have not returned back to the following places since my last visit. Some of them include Malcolm X Park, Rock Creek Park, and Zoo. I no longer provide free and educational services. Selected Pro Bono Experiences African American Women's Resource Center (Septima Clark Contest) Washington, DC 2018 District Bridges 2016 Sunday School Worship Leader All Souls Church Washington, D.C. December 2015 M/C Charles Sumner School Open House Washington, D.C. December 2015 Photographer Charles Sumner Open House Washington, DC April 2015 Free DC (Emancipation Day Parades) Washington, DC 2010 - 2015 Malcolm X Park Circle Washington, D.C. 2009 - 2015 Potter's House Sounds of Hope Washington, D.C. 2007 - 2012 DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities Washington, DC 1997 SELE...

Infinite Devotion

  Infinite Devotion. Digital art created on canvas. December 8, 2024. Afrika Abney  Infinite Devotion “signifies a deep-rooted connection that goes beyond typical loyalty. It suggests an unwavering commitment to uphold and champion values, relationships, or causes with complete dedication. This level of devotion is marked by a readiness to put aside personal desires and interests in order to prioritize the needs of the cherished individual or the cause at hand, showcasing the powerful nature of the relationship involved.”

Artistic Elegance

  Blend of fashion and art “represents a unique fusion that transcends traditional boundaries, creating a dynamic dialogue between two distinct yet complementary disciplines. This amalgamation allows for the exploration of aesthetic principles, where the creativity inherent in artistic expression informs and enhances the design elements of fashion. As a result, garments become not merely items of clothing but rather canvases that convey deeper narratives and cultural commentary, reflecting the zeitgeist of contemporary society.”

Candid Connections

  “Candid about Love (Television Movie 2023) is about Laura, a gallery assistant and wannabe fine-art photographer, is finally promised a spot in a Newcomer's Showcase--but only if she can get a reclusive artist, Shane, to premiere his newest photographs at the gallery.” I studied photography when I was a student and provided numerous services to galleries. Additionally, I have also had the opportunity to exhibit some of my art in galleries. In any relationship, I strongly believe it is important to be candid.  I have not revisited Rock Creek Park and the zoo since 2018. I have not returned back to Malcolm X Park since 2015.  Candid Connections emphasizes the theme of honesty and openness in relationships.

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.