Creative Focus

I have no clue what you are discussing because I am busy minding my own business. Driven by a passion for creativity and a commitment to excellence, I have been focusing on my branding, digital art and providing services.

I have not returned back to the following places since my last visit. Some of them include Malcolm X Park, Rock Creek Park, and Zoo. I no longer provide free and educational services.

Selected Pro Bono Experiences

African American Women's Resource Center (Septima Clark Contest)

Washington, DC

2018

District Bridges

2016

Sunday School Worship Leader

All Souls Church

Washington, D.C.

December 2015

M/C Charles Sumner School Open House

Washington, D.C.

December 2015

Photographer Charles Sumner Open House

Washington, DC

April 2015

Free DC (Emancipation Day Parades)

Washington, DC

2010 - 2015

Malcolm X Park Circle

Washington, D.C.

2009 - 2015

Potter's House

Sounds of Hope

Washington, D.C.

2007 - 2012

DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities

Washington, DC

1997

SELECTED PROFESSIONAL EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCES

ARTS SPECIALIST. Edlavitch Jewish Community Center of Washington, DC, Washington, D.C. June 20, 2018 - July 25, 2018. Designed and taught visual arts classes for diverse student groups, fostering a safe and positive learning environment.

AFRICAN DANCE INSTRUCTOR. Roda Movements, Takoma Park, M.D.. 2015 - 2015.Taught a group of young children ages 7 - 9..

SUBSTITUTE TEACHER. DC International School, Washington, D.C. 2016 - 2017. Managed classrooms, ensuring active learning and adherence to lesson plans. Subbed for Spanish Art Teacher, ensuring continuity of learning objectives.

WEST AFRICAN DANCE INSTRUCTOR. M.O.M.I.E.S TLC and YWDEP, Washington,DC. SUMMER 2015, Washington, DC. Taught West African dance to summer camp students, emphasizing cultural and historical context.

SUBSTITUTE DANCE INSTRUCTOR. Joy of Motion Dance Center, Washington, DC.2013 - 2015. Instructed children and adults in Samba Fusion and AfroBeats classes, ensuring consistent quality.

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.

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. Provided dance instruction to students grades 9 -12 in the absence of the

studio teacher for the World Intensive Summer Camp.

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

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.

SUBSTITUTE AFRICAN DANCE PRE - PROFESSIONAL INSTRUCTOR. The Dance

Institute of Washington (DIW), Washington, D.C. 2010 - 2012.

● Instructed West African dance to pre-professional students aged 12-21,

enhancing cultural understanding.

● Developed students' technical skills, resulting in higher performance levels and

competition success.

● Collaborated with program directors to align curriculum with educational goals.

● Addressed individual student needs, fostering personal growth and confidence.

● Implemented structured lesson plans, leading to improved student engagement

and retention.

Creative Focus. Digital art created on canvas. October 28, 2024. Afrika Abney

Dishonesty

I would appreciate it if you would refrain from claiming that you don't recognize my identity. The fact is, if you engaged in my services at any point between the 1980s and 2019, you are fully aware of who I am. It is disingenuous to pretend otherwise, and I would prefer a more honest dialogue moving forward. It’s important to acknowledge that your assertions about my identity are misleading. If you have employed my services from the 1980s through 2019, you undoubtedly know who I am. I urge you to stop this pretense and engage with me in a truthful manner, as it undermines our professional relationship. I find it necessary to address the ongoing misrepresentation of my identity. If you have hired me for any services between the 1980s and 2019, you cannot genuinely claim ignorance about who I am. Let’s move past this dishonesty and focus on a more transparent and respectful interaction.

Empathy in Color

“Maya Angelou's quote, “I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel,” emphasizes the importance of emotions and how they can leave a lasting impression on others. The quote suggests that the way we make people feel can be more meaningful than what we say or do, and that it can help create positive connections and a more understanding world.” I am a firm proponent of fostering significant and constructive relationships while demonstrating genuine empathy towards others. The importance of building connections that are not only impactful but also uplifting cannot be overstated. By prioritizing these values, we can cultivate an environment where individuals feel valued and understood, ultimately leading to more harmonious interactions and collaborations. My commitment lies in promoting the establishment of profound and affirmative relationships, coupled with a deep sense of empathy. It is e...

Blooming Loyalty

Blooming Loyalty. Digital art created on canvas. November 27, 2024. Afrika Abney My choice will always be to be loyal and show dedication. Despite how people have treated me, I will always do the right thing because I know how it feels to be pushed aside, isolated, discriminated against and treated as if your words do not matter. I also know from first hand experiences what it means to lose loved ones and much more, but no one bothered to ask me any questions when I was a student, so now you are wondering why I make certain choices. Well, that is none of your business unless you are willing to sweep me off of my feet and show real support. From picnics in parks to providing services, I have watched my hometown and community change. I selected the colors red, brown and green to create this piece.

Hues of Reflection

Hues of Reflection. Digital art created on canvas. October 11, 2024. Afrika Abney Upon waking up from my restful sleep, I began to select colors using my digital palette to create my abstract digital painting. Each color symbolizes transitions and experiences that I have endured. From the lighter hues of blue-green to the darker hues of blue-green with the addition of brown and sap green adding volume to the composition.

Praises

“Praise Is Positive. First, praise should always be positive. ... Praise Reinforces High Expectations. ... Praise Is Appropriate. ... Praise Promotes Independence. ... Praise Is Sincere. ... Praise Notes Effort and Progress. ... Praise can be a great motivator.” Quote found on the Internet Dynamic and results-oriented professional with a proven track record of delivering exceptional services and achieving high client satisfaction. Recognized for maintaining rigorous standards of excellence, I have received numerous accolades and positive feedback from clients, reflecting my unwavering commitment to quality and professionalism. My strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and clear communication skills have cultivated a reputation for providing top-notch solutions that not only meet but exceed client expectations. Motivated by the validation of satisfied clients, I continuously strive for perfection in every project, ensuring that my efforts leave a lasting impact on those ...

African Americans and Children's Literature: A Symposium and Exhibition

A frican Americans and Children's Literature: A Symposium and Exhibition Mar 02, 2024, 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM EST 125 Michigan Ave NE, Washington, DC 20017, USA COME LEARN THE STORY AND LEGACY OF WASHINGTON, DC’S AFRICAN AMERICAN AUTHORS OF CHILDREN’S LITERATURE—Past and Present, including May Miller Sullivan, Sterling Brown, Maxine Clair, Gwendolyn Brooks, Daphne Muse, Lucille Clifton, Eloise Greenfield, Jason Reynolds, Kwame Alexander, Jennifer Lawson, Courtland Cox, Adjoa Burrowes, E. Ethelbert Miller, Carolivia Herron, Aisha Rice, Tricia Elam Walker, jonetta rose barras, Sheila Crider, David Miller, Michelle Meadows, Leah Henderson , Michelle Green, Lakia Wilson and others. This event is curated by award-winning author and public scholar jonetta rose barras in partnership with humanities scholar Bernard Demczuk Ph.D. ,The Black Student Fund, The Institute for African American Writing, Teaching for Change, Social Justice Books, Buck Wild Media, and Lesa Warrick. Major funding has be...

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 ...

Neutral Narrative

"Today is the second day of fall 2024 and Monday, September 23, 2024.This blog is dedicated to sharing my experiences, the services I offer, and the insights I've gained along the way. It is a branding blog focused on consulting. Through this blog, I aim to share not only my expertise but also the transformative power of consulting in helping organizations thrive. The role of a consultant is multifaceted, encompassing the provision of expert advice across a wide array of subjects. Consultants engage in thorough analysis by collecting relevant data and insights, which allows them to craft tailored solutions for their clients which are neutral and unbiased. These solutions are often presented in the form of comprehensive business proposals, designed to address specific challenges and opportunities faced by the organization. By collaborating closely with stakeholders, consultants strive to enhance operational efficiency, drive profitability, and foster sustainable growth. Consult...

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...

Unity in Motion

“Unity in Motion emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and collaboration within the arts community, promoting a sense of togetherness. During my time at various art institutions, I encountered instances of racism and discrimination. These experiences were disheartening and highlighted the challenges faced within the visual art and dance community. Additionally, I faced issues with timely payment from several organizations, which further complicated my professional engagements. Despite my commitment to providing high-quality services, there were instances where payments were delayed or not received at all and raised concerns about the professionalism of the organizations involved. It is important to note that throughout my interactions with these companies, I did not render any services since I was last hired. The combination of discriminatory experiences, financial inconsistencies, and a lack of engagement from certain organizations highlights the importance for improve...

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