Skip to main content

Experience Essence






A highly experienced consultant with a remarkable track record of delivering exceptional results across various industries, she is adept at providing strategic guidance and effective solutions to complex challenges. Her specialization involves the creation and implementation of innovative strategies that drive business growth and improve operational performance. With a strong foundation in communication and analytical skills, she has a deep understanding of market trends and industry standards, which empowers her to craft customized solutions that address the specific requirements of each client.

Currently, she is collaborating with MidnightRose, where Ms. Abney is fulfilling her role as a consultant by disseminating information about an upcoming event scheduled for September 14, 2024, at Tenley Library. Her responsibilities include utilizing email and social media platforms to promote the event, ensuring that the relevant audience is informed and engaged. Through her efforts, she aims to maximize attendance and create awareness about the event, leveraging her expertise in communication to effectively reach potential participants.

Ms. Abney's commitment to excellence is evident in her proactive approach to client engagement and event promotion. By harnessing her extensive knowledge of digital communication strategies, she is able to effectively convey the significance of the event and its benefits to the community. Her ability to tailor messages for different platforms not only enhances visibility but also fosters a sense of connection with the audience, ultimately contributing to the success of the event and reinforcing her reputation as a trusted consultant in her field.

PAST SELECTED ART EXHIBITIONS

​​• Virtual Art Exhibition and Poetry Reading. February 19, 2023

​• The National Daughter Daddy Tour. National City Christian Church, Washington, D.C. 2004 - 2006

• Every Picture Tells A Story. Moca DC, Washington, D.C. January 6, 2006 – January 27, 2006

• "Visions." Ellingtons on 8th, Washington, D.C. May 31 - June 28, 2006.Curated by Prelli Anthony Williams. Reception, May 31, 2006 from 6-8pm and Closing Reception, June 28, 2006

• "The Power Within." El Tamarindo, Washington, D.C. July 1 - 31, 2006. Curated by D.Edward Dyer, President of Art N Deed, LLC.

• "Images of Life." Phish Tea Cafe, Washington, D.C. July 31, 2005 - September 2005

​• Norton Kirby Advertising, Washington, D.C. 2005

​• "Heritage Collections." Emma Mae Gallery, Washington, DC. 2005-2004

•"James McLaugin Memorial Staff Show." Phillips Collection, Washington, DC. 2000

•New Horizons Presents Tomorrow's World Art Center. "Celebrating Our Heritage Through The Arts." Atrium Gallery One, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC. 1999

•"Evolution of Historical Symbolisms." Corcoran Gallery of the Art, Hemicycle, Washington, DC. 1997

•"All Senior Summer Show." Corcoran School of the Art, White Walls Gallery, Washington, DC. 1997-1996


SELECTED ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Art featured on brochure and book cover.


Designed, directed, and coordinated successful educational and arts programs for adults and children.


Researched and wrote successful grant proposals.


Managed several popular arts events, community festivals, workshops and conferences.


Nominated for a variety of awards including the 2001 Mayor’s Arts Award in the category of Outstanding Emerging Artist.

Recipient of multiple grants from the D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities

Participated in the Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton's Congressional Art Competition in 1992 and 1993.


SELECTED SKILLS

Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Publisher, and Excel


Gallery operations


Curating art exhibitions


Social media marketing


Graphic designing


Flyer dissemination


Trained visual arts and dance professional


SELECTED PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCES


PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION. Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers and Esther Productions, Inc, Washington, D.C.. Responsible for hosting, setting up tables, clean up, interior decorating, stage designing, and recruiting participants. Sounds of Hope at Potter's House (2012), The Gift (October 2015; October 2016, and October 21, 2017); Building Family in the 21st Century (June 2016); Painting Your Future Bright: A Sip and Paint for Girls Ages 13 - 17 (March 16, 2019); and PaintSpiration: An Interactive Workshop designed for girls ages 13 through 17 (May 4, 2019).

ARTS SPECIALIST. Edlavitch Jewish Community Center of Washington, DC, Washington, D.C. June 20, 2018 - July 25, 2018.

Designed and taught visual arts classes, enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes.


Prepared and distributed weekly progress reports to ensure clear communication with the Program Manager.


Developed tailored lesson plans for diverse skill levels, fostering a positive learning environment.


SUBSTITUTE TEACHER. DC International School, Washington, D.C. 2016 - 2017. Managed classrooms, ensuring active learning and adherence to lesson plans.

Managed classrooms, ensuring active learning and adherence to lesson plans, fostering a productive environment.


Adapted quickly to diverse environments, maintaining student engagement and continuity of learning.


Substituted for the Spanish Art Teacher, ensuring seamless delivery of curriculum and learning objectives.


Reinforced learning objectives, promoting a positive and productive classroom atmosphere.

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM TEACHER. JEAP, Washington, D.C.. 2015.


Organized engaging activities, prepared materials, and assisted students with assignments, enhancing learning.


Reported to management, ensuring clear communication and smooth operations within the program.


Helped students with assignments, leading to improved academic performance and confidence.


Collaborated with the team to create a supportive learning environment, fostering student development.

AFRICAN DANCE INSTRUCTOR. Roda Movements, Takoma Park, M.D.. February 2015 - February 2015.

Taught West African dances to a group of young children aged 7-9. Integrated historical context into lessons, conducted warm-up sessions, developed energetic dance routines, and achieved measurable improvement in students' dance techniques and cultural knowledge.

WEST AFRICAN DANCE INSTRUCTOR. M.O.M.I.E.S TLC, Washington,DC. July 2015 - August 2015.

● Taught West African dance to summer camp students, emphasizing cultural and historical context.

● Conducted daily 30-minute warm-ups to enhance flexibility and stamina.

● Developed students' skills in energetic dance movements, fostering teamwork and discipline.

● Provided comprehensive instruction on various West African dances, leading to a successful final performance.


WEST AFRICAN DANCE INSTRUCTOR. YWDEP, Washington, DC. August 2015.

● Taught West African dance to summer camp students, emphasizing cultural and historical context.

● Conducted daily 30-minute warm-ups to enhance flexibility and stamina.

● Developed students' skills in energetic dance movements, fostering teamwork and discipline.

● Provided comprehensive instruction on various West African dances, leading to a successful final performance.


WEST AFRICAN DANCE INSTRUCTOR. Kingdom Kids Care, Washington, DC. (July 3,2013 - July 17, 2013)

Led West African dance instruction for summer camp students, fostering cultural appreciation and historical understanding.


WEST AFRICAN DANCE INSTRUCTOR. Hyde Addison Elementary School for Annual International Dinner (May 18, 2013)

Led a West African dance presentation at Hyde Addison Elementary School for the Annual International Dinner, showcasing cultural heritage and engaging over 100 attendees.

SUBSTITUTE DANCE INSTRUCTOR. Joy of Motion Dance Center, Washington, DC. August 2013.


Taught dance to grades 9-12 during World Intensive Summer Camp, ensuring continuity in curriculum.


Adapted lesson plans to meet diverse student needs, enhancing engagement and learning outcomes.


Maintained classroom discipline and fostered a positive learning environment.


Collaborated with staff to align teaching methods with studio standards.

SUBSTITUTE DANCE INSTRUCTOR. Joy of Motion Dance Center, Washington, DC. August 2013 - July 2015.

Instructed children and adults in Samba Fusion and Afro Beats classes, developed engaging lesson plans, adapted teaching methods to accommodate varying skill levels, and maintained continuity and high standards in dance instruction.


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).

Developed and executed visual arts curriculum for diverse 5th-8th graders, enhancing artistic skills.


Students mastered abstract painting, showing measurable improvement in technique and creativity.


Tailored lessons to accommodate varying skill levels, fostering an inclusive learning environment.


Implemented hands-on projects that significantly boosted student engagement and participation.


SUBSTITUTE TEACHER. Mundo Verde Public Charter Schools, Washington, DC. December 2013 - 2014.

Managed and co-managed classrooms, delivering prepared lesson plans and fostering active learning.


Ensured a positive classroom environment, reinforcing learning objectives effectively.


Collaborated with Ms. Gloria Quirarte, substituting seamlessly to maintain educational continuity.


Adapted to diverse student needs, enhancing engagement and understanding.


Performed additional duties, contributing to the overall success of the educational program.


AFFILIATED TEACHING ARTIST. Young Playwrights' Theatre (YPT), Washington, DC. October 2012 - May 2013.

Developed and taught visual arts classes for diverse first and second graders, integrating literacy skills.


Created a safe and structured learning environment, fostering positive student interactions.


Established classroom rules and managed behavior, ensuring a conducive educational setting.


Prepared and submitted weekly progress reports to the Program Manager, enhancing program oversight.


STUDENT SUCCESS COACH. Center City Public Charter Schools, Washington, DC. October 2013-December 2013.

Tutored individuals and small groups, enhancing academic performance through tailored support.


Maintained school behavior policy, fostering a disciplined learning environment.


Assisted in extended learning activities, contributing to holistic student development.


READING TUTOR​. ​Reading Partners, Washington, D.C. January 2013 through May 2013.​


Provided specialized instruction to 3rd-5th graders using Reading Partners curriculum, improving literacy skills


Assisted students in achieving measurable academic progress through targeted reading interventions


Collaborated with teachers to tailor instructional strategies, enhancing student engagement and performance


Monitored student progress and adjusted teaching methods, leading to significant improvement in reading levels

SUBSTITUTE AFRICAN DANCE PRE - PROFESSIONAL INSTRUCTOR. The Dance Institute of Washington (DIW), Washington, D.C. 2010 - 2012.

Taught West African Dance to ages 12-21 in DIW's Pre-Professional Program, improving technique and performance.


Enhanced student engagement and participation through dynamic and interactive classes.


Collaborated with fellow instructors to develop a cohesive curriculum, ensuring consistent skill progression.


Addressed individual student needs, leading to noticeable improvements in their dance abilities.

Guest Host. Summer is Magic Artist's Reception. The Martin Luther King Memorial Library, Washington, DC. July 17, 2003


Guest Host. Word of Mouth. Bossa Bistro Lounge, Washington, DC. March 13, 2003


Guest Host for “Open Mic”. John Nelson Gallery, Maryland. November 8, 2003


Guest Host. A Night of Poetry. Trinity College, Cullivy Lounge, Washington, DC. February 19, 2004


Host. Youth Poetry Open Mic. Kick Off Youth Poetry Week. Saturday, April 10, 2004. Mt. Pleasant Library 3160 16th St NW (Corner of 16th and Lamont St. NW) Washington, DC(basement).


PROGRAM COORDINATOR. Esther Productions, Inc., Washington D.C.. November 2004 - March 2006.


Designed and implemented community outreach programs, achieving measurable engagement growth.


Developed objectives and identified audiences, leading to successful outreach campaigns.


Created in-school programs for middle school girls without fathers, fostering significant support.


Collaborated with educators to tailor programs, ensuring maximum impact and participation.


Analyzed program effectiveness, continuously improving strategies for better outcomes.

Host. 1st Thursday Poetry Open Mic Fest sponsored by Cultural Development Corporation and Starbucks, managed by Desho Productions. 2001 - 2002


Coordinator. Open Mic.Islander Caribbean Restaurant & Lounge, Washington, DC. 2001

Guest Host. The Poets Den (Kaffa House), Washington, DC. July 26, 2001


"A Night of Poetry". The Market Five Gallery, Washington, D.C.. Oct 26, 2002


Co-coordinator. Provisions Poetry Fest and Free the Peace.Provisions Library, Washington, DC. 2002


PROJECT DIRECTOR. Jubilee Enterprise of Greater Washington, DC. August 2001 - August 2002.


Directed afterschool program staff across three sites, ensuring smooth operations and adherence to goals.


Reviewed and approved weekly academic plans, enhancing educational outcomes.


Hired, trained, and assigned tutors, fostering a skilled and effective team.


Organized cultural enrichment and parental involvement activities, boosting community engagement.


Coordinated summer enrichment program, significantly improving student participation and achievement.


PROGRAM MONITOR/ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT. DC Department of Parks and Recreation, Washington, DC. 2001 - 2001. Oversaw Summer Arts Program, managed database, and handled administrative tasks, ensuring smooth operations.


GALLERY ASSISTANT. Phillips Collection, Washington, DC. 2000.

Monitored and secured artworks during gallery hours, ensuring safety and preservation.


Implemented safety protocols, reducing incidents of damage or theft.


Collaborated with the team to maintain optimal gallery conditions.


Utilized keen attention to detail to identify and address potential risks.


Contributed to a secure and welcoming environment for visitors.


AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM TEACHER. Academy for Ideal Education, Washington, D.C. 1997. Responsible for preparing materials, organizing activities, helping students with assignments, and reporting to management.


ART CURATOR. New Harlem Gallery, New York City. 1992 - 1993. Installed art for some of the exhibitions held at the New Harlem Gallery.

Curated and installed diverse exhibitions, significantly enhancing visitor engagement.


Organized art installations, promoting new artists and increasing gallery attendance.


Planned exhibitions with attention to detail, creating compelling narratives.


Collaborated with artists to select and arrange artworks, ensuring cohesive displays.



CONSULTANT. Varies. Washington, DC. 1992 - present. Designs and implements media campaigns for diverse clients, achieving measurable engagement growth.

Collaborates with various organizations to enhance public outreach and brand visibility.


Provides strategic consulting to improve campaign effectiveness, resulting in significant client satisfaction.


Develops tailored media strategies that address client-specific needs, ensuring impactful communication.


Analyzes campaign performance to optimize future initiatives, driving continuous improvement.


PAST VISUAL ART WORKSHOPS


KUUMBA ARTS AND CRAFTS PROGRAM. 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). conducted a free fine arts workshop for children ages 7 — 10. Taught students ages 7 to 10 techniques of drawing, finger painting, sponge painting, abstract design, clay work, collage designing and monoprinting. Sponsored by Ms. Afrika Abney and funded by the D.C. Commission of the Arts, Arts Education Grant Program


KUUMBA EXPRESSIONS, WASHINGTON, DC. Culture Coffee on January 31,2015 and Potter's House on May 16,2016 and May 23, 2016. They were sponsored by Culture Coffee, Potter's House and Esther Productions, Inc Art Enablers. Designed to serve youth between the ages of 6 through 12, including those with developmental disabilities. Participants were provided instruction in painting, using traditional and non-traditional materials, with the intent of enhancing their own natural artistic talent while expanding their fundamental information about compositional studies, light and shadow, and technique. Further, the workshop augments participants’ overall education, particularly their communication skills. Additionally, participants were introduced to many renaissance artists. Some of them include Romare Bearden, Jacob Lawrence, Pablo Picasso, Jackson Polluck and Lois M. Jones.


PAST PROFESSIONAL DANCE WORKSHOPS


Greenbelt Greenman Festival (May 2013 - October 2015), Roosevelt Center, Greenbelt MD

Led workshops teaching West African dance to children and adults, organized and conducted dance sessions at festivals and community events, developed curriculum with historical context and warm-ups, facilitated energetic dance movements, and delivered workshops at multiple venues, increasing community participation and cultural appreciation.


Greenbelt Rhythm and Drum Festival (May 2013 - October 2015), Roosevelt Center, Greenbelt MD

Led workshops teaching West African dance to children and adults, organized and conducted dance sessions at festivals and community events, developed curriculum with historical context and warm-ups, facilitated energetic dance movements, and delivered workshops at multiple venues, increasing community participation and cultural appreciation.


Bloombars (April 14, 2012), Washington, DC

L​ed workshops teaching West African dances to children and adults, enhancing cultural understanding.


Columbia Heights MarketPlace (May 12, 2012), Washington, DC

L​ed workshops teaching West African dances to children and adults, enhancing cultural understanding.


Malcolm X Park (October 2009 - December 2015), Washington, DC

● L​ed workshops teaching West African dances to children and adults, enhancing cultural understanding.

● Organized and conducted dance sessions at festivals and community events,

engaging diverse audiences.

● Developed curriculum with historical context and warm-ups, improving student retention and enthusiasm.

● Facilitated energetic dance movements, fostering physical fitness and teamwork among participants.

● Delivered workshops at multiple venues, increasing community participation and cultural appreciation.


COMMUNITY CAREER DAY VISUAL ART WORKSHOPS


2016. Eliot (invited by Ms. Ophelia Morgan).


1996. Calvin Coolidge High School (invited by Ms. Angela Cook)


Led visual art workshops


Engaged over 200 students in discussing the visual arts career


Collaborated with school principals to tailor workshops to student needs, enhancing learning outcomes.


Achieved measurable improvements in student engagement and cultural understanding.

PAST LITERARY WORKSHOPS

Mt. Pleasant Library, Washington, DC. 2013 - 2014. Designed to assist children ages 6 -12 to expand their literary skills.


Takoma Park Library, Washington,DC. 2003. Enhancing Our Imaginations was funded by the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities. The workshop was geared towards young adults. Invited many poets and literary artists to bea part of the workshop. Some of them include Rebecca Bishophall, Judine Slaughter, Hank Okoro and many others.

Popular posts from this blog

Cultural bridging

  Quote found on the Internet “Cultural bridging in the workplace can help create a cognitive connection between people from different cultures, allowing them to understand each other's similarities and differences. This can lead to productive dialogue and learning. Here are some ways to bridge cultural gaps in the workplace: Develop cultural awareness: Take time to learn about your colleagues' and business partners' cultural backgrounds. Recognize differences: Acknowledge cultural and individual differences, as well as your own behaviors. Be respectful: Show respect and speak clearly. Adapt communication styles: Consider how your communication style might differ from others. Build relationships: Involve the whole group and seek feedback. Be transparent: Clarify things and ask for clarification when needed. Use technology wisely: Consider how technology can be used to help.” Quote found on the Internet  Passionate and dedicated arts professional with deep roots in Washingto...

Dancing Fire #1 & 2

                                                                       Dancing Fire #1 Acrylic on Canvas $350.00 24 * 36 1997 Afrika Abney  Vibrant hues of red, yellow, and orange blend seamlessly with darker tones, creating a vivid and dynamic composition. The central area is illuminated, giving the impression of light bursting through clouds. Dancing Fire #2 Acrylic on Canvas $350.00 24 * 36 1997 Afrika Abney  A vibrant explosion of colors featuring blends of red, blue, and pink with hints of green and yellow emits a cosmic or nebula-like atmosphere. The interplay of colors creates a sense of depth and movement, evoking an abstract and dynamic feeling.

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 ...

What piece of advice would you give to your 16-year-old self?

Keep being true to myself which is the key to achieving short term and long term goals. Quote found on the Internet “Individuality in the workplace can refer to an individualist company culture or to ways to encourage employees to express themselves: Individualist company culture This culture values employees' autonomy, rights, and freedoms, and encourages them to be self-starters and think for themselves. It can also involve less rigid structures and less distinction between superiors and subordinates. This type of culture can foster creative thinking and new approaches, but it can also lead to a lack of cohesion and teamwork, or a competitive work environment. Encouraging employees to express themselves Here are some ways to encourage individuality in the workplace: Recognize and celebrate differences: Create opportunities for employees to share their backgrounds, passions, and perspectives through presentations, showcases, or a series of "day in the life" posts. This ...

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. 

Self - introspection

“Self-introspection, or self-reflection, can be an important part of a professional life. It can help people understand their abilities, improve their performance, and develop self-awareness.” Self-introspection, or self-reflection, can indeed be a crucial aspect of a professional life, guiding individuals on a journey of understanding their own capabilities, assessing their performance, and cultivating a heightened sense of self-awareness. Through introspection, individuals can delve deep within themselves to explore their strengths and weaknesses, identify areas for improvement, and ultimately enhance their professional skills and expertise. This process of introspection allows individuals to reflect on their actions, decisions, and experiences, gaining valuable insights that can inform their future choices and behaviors in the workplace. By taking the time to introspect, individuals can gain a greater understanding of their passions, values, and goals, aligning their professional p...

Pink Spectrum Bliss

  Pink Spectrum Bliss. Digital art created on canvas. August 12,  2024. Afrika Abney  “The spectrum of pink hues presents a delightful array of colors that evoke a sense of warmth and tenderness. From the softest blush reminiscent of early morning light to the vibrant fuchsia that commands attention, each shade carries its own unique charm. These variations can be seen in nature, from the delicate petals of cherry blossoms to the bold strokes of a sunset, illustrating how pink can range from subtle and soothing to bold and invigorating. Exploring the different tones of pink reveals a fascinating interplay of emotions and aesthetics. Light pinks often convey feelings of innocence and serenity, making them popular choices for nurseries and romantic settings. In contrast, deeper shades like magenta and raspberry exude confidence and energy, often used in fashion and design to make a striking statement. This versatility allows pink to be both a calming presence and a vibrant ...

Passion

  Quote found on the Internet  Passion for many things. 

Bold Palette

  Bold Palette. Digital art created on canvas. August 15, 2024. Afrika Abney 

Vibrant Circle Harmony

  Vibrant Circle Harmony. Digital art created on canvas. December 15, 2024. Afrika Abney