Panel Discussion: ESTRANGEMENT & RECONCILIATION

ESTHER PRODUCTIONS INC.

presents

ESTRANGEMENT & RECONCILIATION: The Wound and The Balm

a conversation during

THE NATIONAL RECONCILIATION WEEK

For Self & Family

June 5, 2023

12:30-1:30 pm

A Virtual Event

The challenges of life can sometimes cause devastating traumas that can lead to personal or familial estrangement. What does estrangement look like? When we separate, losing our way, how do we find the path back to wholeness? How do we reconcile?

Join us for the answers to those and other questions during a provocative, informative and entertaining conversation during a week of live and previously recorded activities.

ESTRANGEMENT & RECONCILIATION features psychotherapist Dr. Nic Hardy, Tasha Smith, LCPC-S, LPC, CCTP-II, CTMH, CMC-1, NCC and Myla Johnson, Trinity University Washington senior whose award-winning research project focuses the impact of father absence and African American boys.

IT'S FREE.

REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED at https://www.estherproductionsinc.com/events-1/the-national-reconciliation-week-for-self-family-june-5-june-9-2023-2023-06-05-12-30

This and other programs by Esther Productions Inc. are made possible through generous donations from Kerry S. Pearson LLC, Fort Myer Construction Corporation Charitable Foundation, Emmanuel Bailey, Pepco, an Exelon Corporation and Esther's Friends.

Dr. Nic Hardy (June 7) is a psychotherapist in Houston, Texas who operates a popular counseling service. This will be his first appearance at The National Reconciliation Week; he is expected to examine family estrangement with the goal of ending it. In his practice, Dr. Hardy helps adult, individuals and couples improve their relationships and grow as individuals. His authenticity and relatability have allowed him to help people from all walks of life. He has been featured in national publications such as HuffPost, Cosmopolitan, NBC, PsychCentral, AskMen, Fatherly, and many others. Dr. Hardy is married and has a beautiful daughter named Brooklyn.

Tasha Smith, LCPC-S, LPC, CCTP-II, CTMH, CMC-1, NCC established Rejuvenating Hearts & Minds in 2016, a mental health and wellness organization that focuses on strengthening the family unit; she is its CEO. It aims to transform the lives of ethnic families and their approach to financial decision-making. After working 18 years in corporate America, Mrs. Smith recognized her mission was to combat societal norms and systemic challenges that contribute to mental illness and maintain financial inequality in marginalized communities. Mrs. Smith aims to bridge the gap by improving emotional d financial literacy through education, practical skills, application procedures, and support. In her work, Mrs. Smith helps individuals understand the emotional and psychological relationship they have with money. Mrs. Smith's goal is to help create generational wealth that extends beyond finances and assets.

Myla Johnson is a recent graduate from Trinity Washington University with a Bachelor of the Arts in Psychology. During her college career, she was inducted into the International Honor Society in Psychology and Phi Beta Kappa. Myla has also interned at the Child Guidance Clinic in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. Ms. Johnson is a recipient of the Access Path to Psychology and Law Experience (APPLE) Program Award by the American Psychology-Law Society's (AP-LS) Broadening Representation, Inclusion, Diversity, and Global Equity (BRIDGE) Committee for her research on " Predicting Emotional and Behavior Functioning of African American Boys: The Impact of Absentee Father's from the Home." Ms. Johnson is currently preparing to apply for Clinical-Forensic Psychology doctoral programs for 2024.

Digital Harmony

Digital Harmony. Digital art created on canvas. September 9, 2024. Afrika Abney When I create my abstract digital art, I think of colors and how they impact my potential viewers. The colors that I have selected for my work include blue, dark green, yellow, black and red. The act of producing digital art transcends mere creation; it encompasses the vital aspect of sharing my work with a broader audience. I believe that art should not only be an individual expression but also a means of connection with others. To facilitate this, I utilize my blog as a platform to showcase my digital art, allowing me to reach and engage with those who appreciate the nuances of abstract expression. Through my blog posts, I aim to provide insights into my artistic process and the thoughts behind each piece. This not only serves to inform my audience about the intricacies of my work but also fosters a dialogue around the themes and emotions that my art seeks to convey. By sharing my digital creations ...

Yellow Tranquility

Good morning, I woke up from my restful sleep a couple hours ago and began selecting solid colors on my digital palette using paint app. I have no idea what discussions are taking place because I tend to keep to myself while I am working from home and remaining focused on my well established routine that involves my branding and digital art. I hope that you have a safe day on Tuesday, September 17, 2024. When incorporating soft yellow which evokes feelings of tranquility and comfort. “To cultivate a tranquil mindset, many people engage in various practices that support their emotional and spiritual well-being. Mindfulness and meditation are particularly effective, serving as vital tools for enhancing self-awareness and promoting inner peace. By dedicating time to these practices, individuals can learn to navigate their thoughts and feelings more effectively, leading to improved mental clarity and emotional strength. Even simple actions, such as foc...

Fall Reflections

I have no idea what you are discussing because I am doing my fall reflections. In my artistic practice, which encompasses both traditional and digital abstract painting, I have explored an extensive palette of colors. Over the span of more than three decades, I have consistently utilized hues such as blue, crimson, dark red, red, black, green, magenta, and yellow, each contributing to the emotional depth and visual complexity of my work. In addition to these primary colors, I have also integrated a diverse range of other shades into my compositions. These include earthy tones like brown and orange, as well as more vibrant colors such as gold ochre, purple, pink, gray, and white. Each color serves a specific purpose, whether it be to evoke a particular mood or to create a striking contrast that draws the viewer's eye. This careful selection of colors is fundamental to my artistic expression and the overall impact of my pieces.

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...

Skyward Harmony

Skyward Harmony. Digital art created on canvas. August 15, 2024. Afrika Abney Looking out from my window, I was greeted by clouds drifting lazily across the sky, while a solitary bird soared gracefully above. The scene sparked a wave of inspiration within me, prompting me to reach for my digital palette. I carefully chose a variety of blue hues, blending them with soft whites to capture the essence of the sky and the fleeting beauty of the bird in flight. With each stroke of my virtual brush, I began to translate the atmospheric beauty before me onto my digital canvas. The cool blues danced harmoniously with the gentle whites, creating a sense of depth and movement that mirrored the clouds and the bird's elegant trajectory.

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.

Pivotal Moments

Flyer created in 2019 for Doc Powell, Founder of the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers by Ms. Afrika Abney. “Back when Art All Night first took root in the Shaw neighborhood in 2011, I was enthusiastically involved in providing numerous services. As the years went by, my journey took me through various artistic landscapes, culminating in a significant opportunity in 2019. That year, I had the privilege of collaborating with the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers, who showcased their incredible talents at Art All Night in Deanwood. Despite my involvement in these pivotal moments, I did not participate in the H Street Festival or Art All Night, reflecting my evolving focus and the different avenues through which I engage with the arts community.” I provided services for the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers from 2001 - 2020. I have not provided any services for them since 2020. Selected Expertise & Skills: I bring a unique blend of creativity, organizationa...

Warmth of the Evening

Warmth of the Evening. Digital art created on canvas. August 12, 2024. Afrika Abney As I set the stage for a restful night, I immersed myself in the creative process of crafting digital abstract paintings. One of my notable works, titled Warmth of the Evening, emerged from this endeavor, showcasing a vibrant palette that reflects the soothing transition from day to night. The act of painting became a meditative practice, allowing me to channel my thoughts and emotions into a visual representation that resonates with the tranquility I sought. In the creation of Warmth of the Evening, I deliberately selected a combination of colors that evoke a sense of comfort and serenity. The dominant hues of red, orange, and yellow were chosen not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their ability to convey warmth and intimacy. Each stroke of color was thoughtfully applied, blending seamlessly to create a harmonious composition that captures the essence of a peaceful evening.

Services for the September 14th event

The services for the event held on September 14, 2024, were finalized on September 12, 2024. In preparation for the event, I personally distributed flyers on August 27 and August 29. This hands-on approach was complemented by an email campaign that shared essential event details, along with the digital posting of the flyer across various social media platforms. In addition to the physical distribution of flyers, I utilized digital channels to broaden the event's reach. By sending out detailed information through email and leveraging social media for flyer promotion, I aimed to attract a larger audience and generate interest in the event. This multifaceted approach was designed to ensure that the event would be well-attended and successful.

Multiple Projects

Spectrum Serenity. Digital art created on canvas. August 12, 2024. Afrika Abney As a self-employed consultant and independent contractor, I find myself juggling various projects that serve as my primary source of income. Each endeavor I undertake not only showcases my skills and expertise but also acts as a vital channel through which I can secure paid work. This dynamic environment allows me to explore diverse opportunities while honing my craft in different areas. The nature of my work as an independent contractor means that I am constantly engaged in multiple projects simultaneously. These projects are not just tasks to complete; they are essential vehicles that facilitate my earning potential. By navigating through various assignments, I can adapt to the ever-changing demands of the market, ensuring that I remain competitive and relevant in my field. Embracing the role of a s...

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