Skip to main content

Golden Milestones

 

“The color gold serves as a powerful reminder of the past, encapsulating the essence of cherished memories and significant life events.It's warm and radiant quality can evoke feelings of joy and accomplishment, often associated with milestones such as art exhibitions, professional experiences and past workshops.”


​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 PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCES


CONSULTANT. Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers, Washington, D.C. 2001 - 2020. 


  • Offered photography services, capturing high-quality images for promotional use.

  • Managed information dissemination for performances, enhancing audience reach.

  • Directed social media campaigns, increasing engagement by 25% through strategic content.

  • Collaborated with a team to develop innovative marketing strategies.

  • Analyzed campaign performance, providing actionable insights for continuous improvement.


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. 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.


CONSULTANT. Kitchen Table Talks. African American Women's Resource Center, Washington, D.C. November 6, 2017 - November 30, 2017. Worked with the team to ensure the timely dissemination of press releases, fostering a cooperative environment.


CONSULTANT. Mr. Ralph Nader. Breaking Through Power, Washington, D.C. 2016. Engaged with local communities to raise awareness about Breaking Through Power, effectively increasing event attendance and participation.


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.


AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM TEACHER. JEAP, Washington, D.C.. 2015. Responsible for preparing materials, organizing activities, helping students with assignments, and reporting to management.


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 ½ 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 ½ 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.




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 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.


STUDENT SUCCESS COACH. Center City Public Charter Schools, Washington, DC. October 2013-December 2013. Responsibilities included tutoring individuals or small group of students; uphold the school's behavior policy; and providing assistant with various extended learning program activities as needed.


READING TUTOR​. ​Reading Partners, Washington, D.C. January 2013 through May 2013.​Provided specialized instruction and academic assistance to students in 3rd through 5th grade, using the Reading Partners program and curriculum.


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.


CONSULTANT. BZB International, Washington, DC. Provided services for the BZB Annual Holiday Gift and Art Show held in 2009, 2013, 2014, from 2016- 2019; and 2022. Also provided services for Anacostia Art Gallery and Boutique in 2010 and 2011.

  • Consulted for Anacostia Art Gallery and BZB International, improving operational efficiency by 15% through strategic process optimization and team collaboration.


CONSULTANT. Kerry S. Pearson, LLC. Washington, DC. 2010-2011. 

  • Researched construction materials, providing insights that improved project efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

  • Analyzed market trends to recommend materials, enhancing project quality and reducing expenses.

  • Collaborated with a team to gather data, ensuring accurate and timely research results for decision-making.

CONSULTANT. DC COALITION FOR HOUSING JUSTICE, Washington, DC. 2010 – 2011. Assisted in fundraising activities, enhancing donor engagement and improving funding outcomes.


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 for Esther Productions, Inc.. This involved developing program objectives, identifying potential audience, and developing outreach campaigns for the targeted population. With Esther Productions, Inc also helped create in school - programs that focused on middle school girls growing without their fathers.


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


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


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


CONSULTANT. BLACK VOICES FOR PEACE, Washington, DC. 2001. Managed administrative tasks, ensuring smooth operations and timely project completion.


PROJECT DIRECTOR. Jubilee Enterprise of Greater Washington, DC. August 2001 - August 2002. Supervised overall activities of after school program staff at three sites. Reviewed weekly plans of Academic Activity Coordinator. Also was responsible for hiring and assigning other employees who served as after school tutors; developed and implemented training program for project tutors; maintained program field; collected weekly timesheets for program staff and implemented cultural enrichment and parental involvement activities; developed and implemented special event honoring student achievers; recruited staff; coordinated and implemented activities for the Building Upon Principles Summer Enrichment and Cultural Program.


PROGRAM MONITOR/ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT. DC Department of Parks and Recreation, Washington, DC. 2001 - 2001. Responsible for oversight of the Summer Arts Program. Duties also included maintenance of the database and general administration.


GALLERY ASSISTANT. Phillips Collection. 2000. Responsible for monitoring and keeping artwork safe during gallery hours.


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.


CONSULTANT. Varies. Washington, DC. 1992 - present. Designed and implemented media campaigns for several individuals, small businesses and nonprofit organizations, including the Malcolm X Dancers and Drummers, Esther Productions, Inc., African American Women's Resource Center, and Adams Morgan Day Festival. This involved identifying media contacts; writing press releases and other publicity materials, including posters and flyers; disseminating press kits; and interfacing with reporters and other journalists. Disseminated flyers, press releases, designed and implemented media campaigns for Esther Productions, Inc and Mr. Ralph Nader. Provided research,fundraising and typing services for Kerry S. Pearson, LLC and DC Coalition for Housing and Justice.


SELECTED PAST WORKSHOPS EXPERIENCE


Workshop Presenter | 05/2016 - 05/2016

Career Day Dance Workshop Presenter. May 2016. Roots PCS, Washington, DC. (invited by Principal Bernida Thompson).

Led dance workshops teaching West African dances, cultural context, and history to elementary students, engaged over 200 students in energetic dance sessions, developed a structured curriculum, collaborated with school principals to tailor workshops to student needs, and achieved measurable improvements in student engagement and cultural understanding.



Workshop Instructor | 01/2015 - 05/2016

Kuumba Expressions. 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. Designed to serve youth between the ages of 6 through 12, including those with developmental disabilities.


Workshop Presenter | 11/2011 - 05/2016

Career Day Dance Workshop Presenter. November 2011 - May 2016. H.D. Cooke Elementary School, Washington, DC. (invited by Ms.Olaminde Gbenro).Led dance workshops teaching West African dances, cultural context, and history to elementary students, engaged over 200 students in energetic dance sessions, developed a structured curriculum, collaborated with school principals to tailor workshops to student needs, and achieved measurable improvements in student engagement and cultural understanding.


Workshop Manager | 01/2003 - 01/2003

Enhancing Our Imaginations. Takoma Park Library, Washington,DC. 2003. Funded by the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities (Young Artist Grant Program). The workshop was geared towards young adults. Invited many poets and literary artists to be a part of the workshop. Some of them include Rebecca Bishophall, Judine Slaughter, Hank Okoro and many others.


Workshop Instructor | 01/1995 - 01/1998

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 


Workshop Presenter | 01/1996 - 01/1996

Career Visual Art Workshop Presenter. 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.



No longer providing educational services. 

Popular posts from this blog

Bold Color Mix

    Bold Color Mix. Digital art created on canvas. September 27, 2024. Afrika Abney Bold Color Mix focuses on the interplay between red, yellow and purple. Red represents determination, while yellow represents optimism. Lastly, purple represents creativity. Each of these colors creates contrast. With the main color being red to focus on the importance and significance of determination to strive towards achieving purpose behind each designated goal. 

Crimson Blossom

  Crimson Blossom. Digital art created on canvas. December 7, 2024. Afrika Abney 

"Before We Go (2014)"

  “While some audiences may view the film as a clichéd boy-meets-girl romance, it is more about two people helping each other to be better versions of themselves rather than just a love story. The film poignantly shows love and compromise in a realistic way, making it worth seeing.” From 1992 - 1993, I visited New York City. During these years, I was a high school student. In 2014, I provided numerous services. 

East of the Anacostia River

   ““East of the River” was simply a geographical description without particular significance. But, it later became how some describe the neighborhoods east of the Anacostia River — often with a negative connotation. During the 1930s and 1940s, land development of the area continued alongside increased racial diversification of the region. At the end of World War II, white flight into suburban Maryland and Virginia resulted in a majority-Black Anacostia. The Anacostia River watershed in the District of Columbia and Maryland is home to more than 800,000 people, 43 species of fish and some 200 species of birds. The watershed has been heavily urbanized over time, losing 6,500 acres of wetlands and 70% of its forest cover. Over the past four centuries the Anacostia has been given many names: the Eastern Branch of the Potomac, the other national river, the dirtiest river in the nation, the forgotten river.” I am dedicated to making a difference in the lives of individuals and famil...

H Street Festival

On September 21, 2019, I created the below flyer for the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers who appeared at the H Street Festival in 2019.  "The H Street Festival in Washington, DC began in 1985 as a small, unofficial block party that was originally planned by the Community-Business Action Coalition (COMBAC) to help revitalize the neighborhood after the 1968 riots. The festival has since grown into one of the city's largest annual events, with over 150,000 participants. The festival highlights the city's arts and humanities, and allows residents and visitors to explore the neighborhood's diverse food and cultural offerings." I have not provided services for the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers since the pandemic began in 2020. 

Independent Consultant Services 2024

   "Independent contractors, or freelancers, are self-employed people who work for themselves and provide services to clients as third parties. Independent contractors typically have specialized skills and can work on a temporary or contracted basis for multiple clients.  An independent consultant is typically self-employed and works through a contract."   Flyer created and designed by Ms. Afrika Abney - https://afrikaabneyconsultant.weebly.com/consultant.html From January 8, 2024 - June 4, 2024, I provided services solely online for the following events: Me, Myself and Our Story: A Creative Writing Institute—a nine-month, three semester writing course for girls 15 through 19;  African Americans and Children’s Literature: A Symposium and Exhibition; KALEIDOSCOPE WOMEN’S WRITING COLLECTIVE; Me, Myself and Our Story - Second Session;  AACL TOUR; and The Teach Truth Event. The events were hosted by Esther Productions, Inc along with its sponsors and partners....

Echoes of Affection

  Echoes of Affection. Digital art created on canvas. December 29, 2024. Afrika Abney  “Long nights, short mornings (2016 television movie) is about an examination of the romantic life of a young man in New York City and his sometimes fleeting, sometimes profound experiences with the women he encounters.” I visited New York City from 1992 - 1993 and was a high school student at that time. Yesterday, I watched this movie and am not an advocate of open relationships. I believe in long term commitment, respect, trust, honesty and candidness.  In 2016, I provided numerous services and have not provided any dance services since 2016. 

Silent Expressions

  The act of conveying messages without the use of spoken words is a profound form of communication. This silent expression can manifest through various means, such as body language, facial expressions, and gestures. In many instances, the subtleties of silence can convey emotions, feelings, and thoughts more powerfully than verbal articulation. Silence is not merely the absence of sound but a rich tapestry of meaning that can enhance relationships and facilitate deeper connections. I have said many things in silence. However, I remain puzzled as to why so many single straight men over the age of 30 remain clueless.  Real genuine love is an emotional expression built of genuine feelings and affection. Not personal agendas and manipulation.  This post is inspired by the “Say it with Silence, “ by Hubert Laws, 1978 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ppl-lDRVUzo). In 1978, I was 2 years old and drew attraction to many things. 

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...

"Love by Chance (TV Movie 2016)"

  “The point of the movie Love by Chance is that love can find its way into the lives of people in unexpected ways:  Claire's story Claire is a pastry chef who is too busy running her restaurant to focus on relationships. Her mother sets out to find her the perfect man without telling her. When Claire discovers that it wasn't fate that brought them together, it could ruin their relationship.  Pete and Ae's story Pete is a shy and rich university student who is trying to hide that he is gay. Ae is a kind and friendly boy who helps Pete up after he is hit by Ae's bicycle. Ae develops feelings for Pete that go beyond friendship, but Pete doesn't want Ae to know the pain of being ridiculed for dating a man.  The overall message Love can find its way into the lives of people in unexpected ways, and that love is love.” I do not believe in relationships that involve matchmaking, manipulation and deception. As a straight African - American woman, I was introduced to many pe...