Sidney Clifton - Opening speaker for African Americans and Children's Literature: A Symposium and Exhibition

Sidney Clifton is the opening speaker for African Americans and Children's Literature: A Symposium and Exhibition which is scheduled to take place on March 2nd at Trinity.

"Emmy-nominated producer Sidney Clifton has over twenty years of experience as an executive producer, director and creative executive overseeing animated, mixed-media and live-action content. She has produced hundreds of hours of episodic and longform content, a partial list can be found at her imdb page here. She has produced children’s and primetime content on Apple TV+, BET, NBC, Showtime, Paramount, and Hallmark Channel, and serves on the Board of Directors of The Academy of American Poets. In her role as mentor and recruiter, she has been a featured presenter, guest, and commencement speaker at colleges and universities across North America.

"Ms. Clifton’s passion for developing and supporting the underserved community of writers, artists, storytellers and creators was the catalyst for her launching The Clifton House (a writer’s and artist’s workshop and retreat space centered at her childhood home in Baltimore Maryland—the home she shared with her five siblings and parents, artist/activist Fred J. Clifton and National Book Award winning poet and author Lucille Clifton)."

Registration has re-opened for AACL as of February 16, 2024. Info: aachildrenslit2023@gmail.com.

https://www.estherproductionsinc.com/events-1/seating-added-african-americans-and-childrens-literature-a-symposium-and-exhibition

Act of Kindness

Quote found on the Internet “It’s easy to overlook the struggles that others may be facing in their lives, as we often only see the surface of their experiences. Each person carries their own burdens, and these challenges can be invisible to those around them. This is why it becomes essential to approach others with a sense of empathy and kindness, recognizing that everyone has their own story and battles that may not be immediately apparent. Understanding that we cannot fully grasp the complexities of another person's situation is crucial. Life can be incredibly challenging, and many individuals are navigating difficulties that we might not even be aware of. By fostering an attitude of compassion and kindness, we create a supportive environment that encourages openness and connection, allowing people to feel seen and valued despite their struggles. When we choose to respond with empathy, we not only uplift those around us but also contribute to a culture of understan...

Vibrant Devotion

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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 intersection of poetry and prose within the D.C. art scene

“The intersection of poetry and prose within the D.C. art scene serves as a catalyst for cultural dialogue and social commentary. Writers often address pressing issues through their work, reflecting the complexities of urban life and the diverse experiences of the city's inhabitants. This literary engagement not only captivates audiences but also inspires action and awareness around various social topics. As the art scene continues to evolve, the integration of literary forms with other artistic expressions promises to further enrich the cultural landscape, making Washington, D.C. a significant hub for artistic innovation and collaboration.” Join Mr. Miller, Ms. Ayala and Mr. Gilmore at Tenley on September 14th. For those interested in learning more about this literary event, please feel free to reach out via email at midnightrosereadingseries@gmail.com. Additional details can also be found on the official website of Esther Productions, Inc. at the provided link - https://www.est...

THE NATIONAL RECONCILIATION WEEK: FOR SELF & FAMILY 2023

THE NATIONAL RECONCILIATION WEEK: FOR SELF & FAMILY 2023 June 5-June 9, 2023 Virtual Event "Reconciliation Week Created by Esther Productions Inc.the National Reconciliation Week: For Self & Family has been designed to: Raise awareness about the importance of family in developing whole, healthy children and adults; Raise awareness about the importance of family to developing strong communities and a healthy society; Provide specific information and techniques for strengthening the family, whether traditional or blended; Provide specific information to help young single mothers and fathers understand their roles as parents; Provide tips to enable single mothers and fathers to become more expert at parenting while juggling other external responsibilities Encourage more parents who do not live in the same household to embrace co-parenting as a process improve emotional, spiritual and healthy outcomes for their children a...

Wave of Serenity

Wave of Serenity. Digital art created on canvas. October 5, 2024. Afrika Abney I have no clue what you are discussing because my focus is solely on the task at hand. I prioritize my present actions and creative processes over any past experiences or events that occurred between the 1970s and 2018. This dedication to the moment allows me to channel my energy into what truly matters in my artistic journey. When I engage in the creation of my art through digital software, I focus on the essence of serenity which aids in the success of my creativity where I can fully express myself. My focus remains steadfast on the present. The act of creating art is a form of self - expression that enables me to share my creativity with others.This commitment to the present not only enhances my creativity but also reinforces my belief in the importance of living in the moment, unencumbered by the past.

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...

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...

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.

Ms. Afrika Abney - Consultant Branding Blog

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