Skip to main content

Transformative power of art

 

1996 

Many years ago, I threw away the items shown in this photo. 




I attended Corcoran from 1993 - 1997. This photo was taken of me in 1996 when I was still at the Corcoran. I studied fine arts at the Corcoran in the 1980s as well. 


The Corcoran Gallery of Art was formally founded as a public institution in 1869 at the intersection of Seventeenth Street and Pennsylvania Avenue. When the Gallery opened its doors in 1874, art students immediately flocked to the museum to observe, sketch, and paint copies of the collection's famous works. In 1878, William Wilson Corcoran donated additional funding to establish a school associated with the Gallery. When Corcoran passed away in 1888, a small building was built for the purpose of the gallery's burgeoning identity as a place for education in the arts. In 1890, the school officially opened as Corcoran School of Art.By 1897, the flourishing institution had outgrown its original home and moved to its present Downtown campus location. The renowned Beaux-Arts style building was designed by Ernest Flagg and is considered to be a premier example of the style. Despite difficult economic times in the 1930s, the school saw enough growth to continue expansion and began offering commercial art classes, scholarships, children's courses, the library, ceramics facilities and courses, weekend classes, and summer learning opportunities. The school became a member of the National Association of Schools of Art in the mid 1970's, and in 1978 was awarded its first BFA degree. The school became fully accredited in the 1980's.The College formally changed its name to Corcoran College of Art + Design in 1999 and has established itself as Washington's singular four-year accredited institution for education in the arts.”

Dynamic and passionate arts advocate with a strong connection to the rich legacy of the Corcoran Gallery of Art, founded in 1869. Committed to fostering creativity and nurturing talent, I have been immersed in a vibrant community that inspires aspiring artists to explore their potential. With a solid foundation in a diverse curriculum from the Corcoran College of Art + Design, I recognize the transformative power of art and its ability to forge deep emotional connections. Eager to contribute to initiatives that celebrate artistic expression and enrich the cultural landscape, I invite others to join in reflecting upon the profound relationships that art cultivates in our lives.


“Art can have a transformative power in the workplace in many ways, including:


Mental health

Art can help reduce stress and burnout, and increase productivity, focus, and job satisfaction. Creative activities like painting, writing, or playing music can activate the brain's reward system, releasing dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and happiness.


Self-expression

Art can help people externalize their internal experiences, making them tangible and visible. For example, a painter's brushstrokes can represent their journey.


Connection

Art can foster a sense of belonging, empathy, and understanding, and build bridges across divides.


Branding

Art can be a unique branding element that sets a business apart from competitors. For example, a well-placed piece of art in a hotel lobby can make guests feel more relaxed and welcomed.”


Popular posts from this blog

Authentic Attraction

  Authentic Attraction. Digital art created on canvas. December 2, 2024. Afrika Abney  I was 8 years old in 1984. I am not 8 anymore nor am I 15. Simple math! If you are attracted to me and a single man over the age of 30 years old. Please note that I am old fashioned. Do not go through different channels to gain my attention.Respect, loyalty, trust, honesty and commitment are important to me. Show up on time to appointments. I have not scheduled any meetings with anyone. 

Dating Ethics

   Dating co-workers in professional work settings is inappropriate. When employers hired me to provide a specific service from 1995-2018, I will always remain professional. I do not believe in dating my former co-workers of the opposite sex. I will remove myself from the setting first when I have noticed that I developed such attraction. Making a bet and bribing co-workers to go against their standards is unethical. If you have an interest in me, then you should have asked for my contact information. Numerous people do not know me at all. Contact me only by phone at 202-384-5925 Preference - single straight male over the age of 30 I no longer provide educational, career day and free services. It is not the past and I am not interested in dating women nor boys.

Inflation

“In 1989, residents began to advocate for measures that would help mitigate the effects of inflation, seeking relief through various channels, including community organizations and local government initiatives. The economic landscape of Washington D.C. in 1989 thus became a focal point for understanding the broader challenges of inflation in urban settings.” I was 13 during this time, I had witnessed the effects of inflation as a student. 35 years later, it still is an issue in Washington, DC and abroad. Inflation. 14 * 18.August 1, 2022. Acrylic on Canvas. Afrika Abney Inflation is based on the personal and professional experiences that Ms. Afrika Abney encountered as a black female from America and living in America. Swirls and shades of purple blend into one another, creating an abstract and immersive visual experience. Hints of light blue peek through, adding a contrasting highlight to the darker hues.

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 

Straightforward Interactions

  I am not Christian. I was introduced to various religious practices when I was a student. I am not playing mind games and entertaining assumptions, gossip and rude jokes. To grab my attention, you must demonstrate respect, honest and trustworthy behavior. I am a straightforward, transparent and authentic human being who has had the opportunity to work at various settings from the 1980s - 2018. It is not the past. I have not scheduled any virtual meetings, video chats, nor interviews. Stop speaking to other people that do not know me at all. I am not interested in dating women nor boys. I am not interested in dating married men and senior citizens. I am not a senior citizen.I am a single straight female over the age of 30 who only has interest and attraction to single straight male over the age of 30. Stop trying to play matchmaker. Only I know what my tastes are.  Stop having me spell things out. The only telephone number that I have is 202-384-5925. Contact - 202-384-5925 W...

Creativity

Many years ago, I threw away the items shown in this photo. Dynamic and thoughtful individual with a keen eye for aesthetics and a deep appreciation for the arts, as demonstrated by a captivating engagement with vibrant and sophisticated artwork. A proud alumnus of Bell Multicultural High School, class of 1993, bringing a rich cultural background and diverse perspective to all endeavors. Known for a polished demeanor and poised presence, I strive to blend creativity with professionalism in every aspect of my life. Bell Multicultural High School is a public school located in the neighborhood of Columbia Heights in Washington, D.C., United States. Creativity. Digital art created on canvas. August 3, 2024. Afrika Abney This striking abstract painting showcases a vibrant interplay of yellow and green hues, expertly blended to create a dynamic visual experience. The artist's innovative approach is evident in the way the colors interact, with bold strokes and soft transitions that evok...

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...

Holiday Harmony

  Holiday Harmony. Digital art created on canvas. November 25, 2024. Afrika Abney When I was a kid, I was interested in boys and surrounded by men. As an African-American woman, I am surrounded by numerous people. However, I am only interested in single men over the age of 30 born between the 1960s - 1980. During the holiday season in the past, I have had the opportunity to develop my skills and career. 

DC Black School Leaders

“Nearly 70% of DC principals are black. A majority of those leaders are black women. Over the next few weeks, months, and even years, there will be much questioning about the capabilities and values of a Black and Indian woman on an international stage. This will inevitably be challenging for many people, particularly black women, who are disproportionately subjected to such critique and skepticism. Black women have a vital role in education and, as demonstrated time and again, in our political landscape. If our students are going to experience the consistency, justice and academic experience we know they deserve, taking care of ourselves is not a luxury—it's imperative.”   NationHouse Anniversary 1980s   I gave away this outfit many years ago. I am a proud alum of NationHouse Positive Action Center, a private African-American school that played a significant role in shaping my identity and instilling a deep sense of cultural pride. From the dedicated guidance of Baba Agyei Ak...