Performance Chronicles

“Research indicates that the color blue is linked to enhanced performance levels.The findings highlight the significance of color in various contexts, particularly in environments where performance is critical, such as in the arts and other creative fields.

Performance Chronicles adopts a narrative framework to explore and reflect on past experiences related to performance. This approach encompasses a wide range of artistic expressions, including both literary works and dance performances.”

Literary Performance Experiences (Partial Listing)

Apr 14, 2001 and April 16, 2001. Islander Caribbean Restaurant & Lounge, 1201 U St. NW Washington, DC

April 6, 2002. Black Voices for Peace. Faith in Action Ministries. Plymouth Congregational Church, Washington DC

April 6, 2002. Homegoing Ceremony. Tree of Life PCS, Washington, DC

April 7, 2002. Kokayi Winston Patterson 50th Earthday Celebration. Cada Vez, Washington DC

April 18, 2002. Bintumani Restaurant and Club, Washington, DC. Hosted by Abena Disroe

June 6, 2002. Starbucks 1st Thursday Poetry Fest. Starbucks Chinatown, Washington, DC. Sponsored by Cultural DC and Desho Productions

Dance Performance Experiences (partial listing)

June 2, 1996. Africare Family Festival. SAMBAFRICA. Soul In Motion Players.

February 1, 1997. NationHouse, Washington, DC

June 13, 1997. Marcus Garvey PCS, Washington, DC

October 1999. Balafon Women’s Ensemble. Lincoln Theatre, Washington, DC

November 2, 1999. Balafon Women’s Ensemble. Georgetown University Law School, Washington, DC

November 4, 1999. African American Heritage Celebration. Soul in Motion Players featuring Balafon Women’s Ensemble. Bowie State University, Bowie MD

April 7, 2001. Celebrate the Rites of Spring. Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers, Market 5 Gallery, Washington DC

May 20, 2001. Unity Rally in honor of Malcolm X. Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers, Ideal PCS, Washington DC

June 2, 2001. Beyond the Monuments Neighborhood Day. Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers, Market 5 Gallery, Washington DC

June 15, 2001. Friends of Brother Ah. Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers, Market 5 Gallery, Washington DC

June 19, 2001. Citywide Juneteenth Celebration. Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers, MLK Library, Washington DC

September 28, 2001. Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers, Josephine Butler Parks Center, Washington DC

December 1, 2001. Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers, St, Marks Church, Washington DC

December 8, 2001. 50th Birthday Celebration of Damu Smith. Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers, Josephine Butler Parks Center, Washington DC

December 15, 2001. Cultural Cafe, Washington, DC. Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers

February 17, 2002. Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers, Metropolitan AME Church, Washington DC

February 19, 2002. Black History Month Celebration. Cada Vez. Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers, Washington DC

February 24, 2002. Black History Month Celebration. Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers, Washington DC. Sponsored by Riverside Baptist Church and Collective Voices of DC.

February 26, 2002. Celebration of the History of Black Music. Fairmont Heights Municipal Building. Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers, Fairmont Heights, MD. Sponsored by the Town of Fairmont Heights.

May 19, 2002. A Tribute to Malcolm X. Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers. Malcolm X Day, Malcolm X Park, Washington DC

April 6, 2002. Black Voices for Peace. Faith in Action Ministries. Plymouth Congregational Church. Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers, Washington DC

April 6, 2002. Homegoing Ceremony. Tree of Life PCS. Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers, Washington DC

April 7, 2002. Kokayi Winston Patterson 50th Earthday Celebration. Cada Vez. Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers, Washington DC

April 20, 2002. Rites of Spring. Market 5 Gallery. Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers, Washington DC

June 6, 2009. DanceAfrica 2009. Dance Place, Washington, DC with the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers

August 13, 2009. Malcolm X Park, Washington, DC

August 16, 2009. NationHouse, Washington, DC with Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers

September 4, 2009. Potter’s House, Washington, DC with the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers

September 27, 2009. Fiesta DC 2009, Washington, DC with the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers

December 4, 2009. Potter’s House, Washington, DC with the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers

December 27,2009. Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers Kujichagulia Celebration hosted by UNIA-ACL Division 332. Zanzibar on the Waterfront, Washington, DC.

January 1, 2010. Kwanzaa Celebration. Plymouth Congregational Church, Washington, DC with the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers

May 28, 2010. SHAWARMAKING, Washington, DC with the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers

June 11, 2010 and July 18,2011. Potter’s House, Washington, DC with the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers

August 14, 2011. NationHouse, Washington, DC with Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers

August 27, 2011 and October 15, 2011. DC History Center, Washington, DC

April 12, 2011, September 14, 2011, and September 17, 2011. Festival Center, Washington, D.C. with the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers

May 21, 2011. Malcolm X Park. African Liberation Day with the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers

May 28, 2011. The Fusion Grill, Washington D.C. with the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers

December 3, 2011. Unity Rally, Washington, D.C. Umoja House with the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers

January 1, 2012. Kwanzaa Celebration. Plymouth Congregational Church, Washington, DC with the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers

April 9, 2012. Howard Theatre Re-Opening. Howard Theatre, Washington, DC. with the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers

April 29, 2012. Natural Health Festival, Washington, DC

May 18, 2012. African Liberation Day 2012, Howard University Blackburn Center, Washington, DC. 5pm (open to the public) with the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers

May 20, 2012. Malcolm X Park, Washington, DC. 3pm. (open to the public) with the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers

June 8, 2012. Potter’s House, Washington, DC with the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers

September 8, 2012. Lincoln Theatre, Washington, DC.

September 9, 2012. 34th Annual Adams Morgan Day Festival, Washington, DC.

October 19, 2012. Potter's House, Washington, DC

August 25, 2013. Malcolm X Park, Washington, DC with the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers

May 3, 2014. Funk Parade. U Street NW, Washington, DC with the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers

May 12, 2014. Greenbelt Green Man Festival. Roosevelt Center, Greenbelt MD with Bele Bele Rhythm Collective

May 17, 2014. Lotus Festival. Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, Washington, DC

July 2, 2015. World Children’s Festival, National Mall, Washington, DC.

September 27, 2015. Hyattsville Festival with Bele Bele Rhythm Collective

October 10, 2015. Greenbelt Rhythm and Drum Festival. Roosevelt Center, Greenbelt MD with Bele Bele Rhythm Collective

December 19, 2015 and January 2, 2016. Hands on Drums, Ivy City, Washington, DC with Bele Bele Rhythm Collective

January 4, 2016. Akoma Drummers, All Souls Church Washington, DC

I have not provided any performance services since I was last hired.

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 ...

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...

Fall Reflections

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Today's Inspiration

My days have been filled with a blend of research and creativity, as I immerse myself in the soothing melodies of the birds chirping just outside my window. This natural symphony serves as a backdrop to my digital art projects, where I channel my inspiration into vibrant creations that reflect both my inner thoughts and the beauty of the world around me. Each stroke and pixel is a testament to my dedication, as I strive to capture the essence of my surroundings while exploring new artistic techniques. Recently, I have also ventured into the realm of event services, where I leverage my skills as a consultant to offer valuable insights and support. This new endeavor allows me to connect with clients and help them bring their visions to life, whether it’s through strategic planning or creative direction. The excitement of collaborating with others and contributing to memorable experiences adds a dynamic layer to my work, making each project unique and fulfilling. Balancing my research, a...

Pivotal Moments

Flyer created in 2019 for Doc Powell, Founder of the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers by Ms. Afrika Abney. “Back when Art All Night first took root in the Shaw neighborhood in 2011, I was enthusiastically involved in providing numerous services. As the years went by, my journey took me through various artistic landscapes, culminating in a significant opportunity in 2019. That year, I had the privilege of collaborating with the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers, who showcased their incredible talents at Art All Night in Deanwood. Despite my involvement in these pivotal moments, I did not participate in the H Street Festival or Art All Night, reflecting my evolving focus and the different avenues through which I engage with the arts community.” I provided services for the Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers from 2001 - 2020. I have not provided any services for them since 2020. Selected Expertise & Skills: I bring a unique blend of creativity, organizationa...

Multicultural literature

Quote found on the Internet “Multicultural literature encompasses a diverse range of literary works that reflect the varied cultural backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of different ethnic and social groups. This genre serves as a vital platform for voices that have historically been marginalized or underrepresented in mainstream literature. By exploring themes such as identity, belonging, and cultural conflict, multicultural literature invites readers to engage with the complexities of human experience across different societies and traditions. The significance of multicultural literature lies in its ability to foster understanding and empathy among readers from different backgrounds. Through rich narratives and authentic character portrayals, these works challenge stereotypes and promote a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity. They often highlight the struggles and triumphs of individuals navigating their identities within the context of their cultural herita...

Simple White

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Well-established routine

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Skyward Harmony

Skyward Harmony. Digital art created on canvas. August 15, 2024. Afrika Abney Looking out from my window, I was greeted by clouds drifting lazily across the sky, while a solitary bird soared gracefully above. The scene sparked a wave of inspiration within me, prompting me to reach for my digital palette. I carefully chose a variety of blue hues, blending them with soft whites to capture the essence of the sky and the fleeting beauty of the bird in flight. With each stroke of my virtual brush, I began to translate the atmospheric beauty before me onto my digital canvas. The cool blues danced harmoniously with the gentle whites, creating a sense of depth and movement that mirrored the clouds and the bird's elegant trajectory.

Compassionate and introspective individual

Compassionate and introspective individual with a deep understanding of the complexities of life and society. With over 30 years of personal experience navigating challenges such as discrimination, conflict, and societal struggles, I bring a unique perspective that emphasizes empathy, positivity, and the importance of encouragement. Passionate about fostering a world free from chaos and misconceptions, I continuously seek to inspire others towards enlightenment and understanding. My journey has been marked by resilience and a commitment to creating a more harmonious environment for all. I did not ask to be born petite. I did not ask for racism and discrimination. I did not ask to be born black. I did not ask for war, poverty, suffering, hatred, gun violence and drug epidemic. I did not ask for recession and inflation. I did not ask for any of those things. I have thrown away numerous things in the past 30 years including the art that has been recently thrown away. Quote found on the ...

Ms. Afrika Abney - Consultant Branding Blog

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