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

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 laun...

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...

Come Immerse Yourself in Afternoon of Poetry and Baseball with Mr. Miller

Join Esther Productions, Inc, The Institute for African American Writing, and The Black Student Fund for an enriching afternoon of poetry and baseball with Mr. Miller. This event, titled MidnightRose, is a celebration of the diverse voices from the Washington Metropolitan Region and beyond. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with the vibrant literary community through the works of award-winning poets and authors, allowing their words to inspire and uplift. MidnightRose is a showcase of the multigenerational, multicultural writers in the Washington Metropolitan Region and beyond presented by Esther Productions Inc., The Institute for African American Writing & The Black Student Fund. Experience the richness of the community through the presentations of award-winning poets and authors. Come allow the words to inspire and empower you. E. ETHELBERT MILLER is a literary activist and author of two memoirs and several poetry collections including his baseball trilogy: If God I...

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...

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...

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...

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.

Unique capabilities and dedication

Unique capabilities and dedication. Digital art created on canvas. August 4, 2024. Afrika Abney Unique Capabilities is an abstract painting that embodies creativity, individuality, and innovation. It exudes a sense of dedication, loyalty, and a drive for excellence. The bold and dynamic nature of the artwork reflects my commitment to pushing boundaries and finding innovative solutions to achieve success in every project undertaken. The vibrant colors, yellow and orange, and the abstract composition of the painting symbolizes my unique capabilities and dedication to my craft. Much like my approach to my work, the painting stands out with its eye-catching design and powerful symbolism. It serves as a visual representation of the artist's work ethic and values, showcasing a commitment to excellence and a passion for pushing the boundaries of creativity. Just as the painting "Unique capabilities and dedication" captures attention with its energetic composition, my work exce...

Authentic Connections

  Authentic Connections. Digital art created on canvas. November 6, 2024. Afrika Abney  I hold no regrets regarding my experiences, whether they pertain to my relationships with men or the various services and opportunities I have encountered along the way. My journey has been shaped by these interactions, and I appreciate the lessons learned from each one. I am a single African - American woman who is not dating. If you are interested in dating me and a single man and at a standard male appearance and over the age of 30, you must meet my personal values and goals. Throughout my experiences, I have encountered individuals who have chosen to part ways with me, or I have made the decision to end certain relationships myself. This process has been enlightening, allowing me to reflect on the qualities that are essential to me in any partnership. Trust, commitment, and respect are fundamental values that I prioritize, and I believe that a healthy relationship must be built on these...

What's Happening?

Quote from the Internet What is happening in a world filled with judgement, prejudice, gossip, deception, and discrimination? Well, some of those things have been depicted in Ms. Afrika Abney's art. However, from June 3 to July 2, 2024, she discarded several abstract collages and paintings as she felt they did not represent her best work. Ms. Abney is actively looking for paid opportunities and has posted her resume on platforms like Indeed and Creatively. Ms. Abney aims to showcase her services to a diverse range of clients. She has worked with clients like New Harlem Gallery, Wisteria Artspace, and Emma Mae Gallery. She has also served notable individuals such as Rev. Dr. Sandra Butler-Truesdale, Gloria Quirarte, and Doc Powell. These services have ranged from art exhibitions, dance performances, event management, event promotions, and social media marketing. Additionally, Ms. Abney has collaborated with institutions like The Phillips Collection and The Corcoran Gallery of Art. M...