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

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...

Dancing Fire #1 & 2

Dancing Fire #1 Acrylic on Canvas $350.00 24 * 36 1997 Afrika Abney Vibrant hues of red, yellow, and orange blend seamlessly with darker tones, creating a vivid and dynamic composition. The central area is illuminated, giving the impression of light bursting through clouds. Dancing Fire #2 Acrylic on Canvas $350.00 24 * 36 1997 Afrika Abney A vibrant explosion of colors featuring blends of red, blue, and pink with hints of green and yellow emits a cosmic or nebula-like atmosphere. The interplay of colors creates a sense of depth and movement, evoking an abstract and dynamic feeling.

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 ...

What piece of advice would you give to your 16-year-old self?

Keep being true to myself which is the key to achieving short term and long term goals. Quote found on the Internet “Individuality in the workplace can refer to an individualist company culture or to ways to encourage employees to express themselves: Individualist company culture This culture values employees' autonomy, rights, and freedoms, and encourages them to be self-starters and think for themselves. It can also involve less rigid structures and less distinction between superiors and subordinates. This type of culture can foster creative thinking and new approaches, but it can also lead to a lack of cohesion and teamwork, or a competitive work environment. Encouraging employees to express themselves Here are some ways to encourage individuality in the workplace: Recognize and celebrate differences: Create opportunities for employees to share their backgrounds, passions, and perspectives through presentations, showcases, or a series of "day in the life" posts. This ...

Vibrant Visions of Faith

Vibrant Visions of Faith. Digital art created on canvas. November 26, 2024. Afrika Abney With the principle of faith, I am fortunate that I graduated from Bell Multicultural High School in 1993 because I felt alone, depressed, traumatized, isolated and discriminated against every time that I stepped inside the school from 1991 - 1993. The colors gold and shades of yellow are deliberately selected to depict optimism, while black represents faith.

Self - introspection

“Self-introspection, or self-reflection, can be an important part of a professional life. It can help people understand their abilities, improve their performance, and develop self-awareness.” Self-introspection, or self-reflection, can indeed be a crucial aspect of a professional life, guiding individuals on a journey of understanding their own capabilities, assessing their performance, and cultivating a heightened sense of self-awareness. Through introspection, individuals can delve deep within themselves to explore their strengths and weaknesses, identify areas for improvement, and ultimately enhance their professional skills and expertise. This process of introspection allows individuals to reflect on their actions, decisions, and experiences, gaining valuable insights that can inform their future choices and behaviors in the workplace. By taking the time to introspect, individuals can gain a greater understanding of their passions, values, and goals, aligning their professional p...

Pink Spectrum Bliss

Pink Spectrum Bliss. Digital art created on canvas. August 12, 2024. Afrika Abney “The spectrum of pink hues presents a delightful array of colors that evoke a sense of warmth and tenderness. From the softest blush reminiscent of early morning light to the vibrant fuchsia that commands attention, each shade carries its own unique charm. These variations can be seen in nature, from the delicate petals of cherry blossoms to the bold strokes of a sunset, illustrating how pink can range from subtle and soothing to bold and invigorating. Exploring the different tones of pink reveals a fascinating interplay of emotions and aesthetics. Light pinks often convey feelings of innocence and serenity, making them popular choices for nurseries and romantic settings. In contrast, deeper shades like magenta and raspberry exude confidence and energy, often used in fashion and design to make a striking statement. This versatility allows pink to be both a calming presence and a vibrant ...

Passion

Quote found on the Internet Passion for many things.

Bold Palette

Bold Palette. Digital art created on canvas. August 15, 2024. Afrika Abney

Research on quotes

Quote found on the Internet “Quotes can be used in many ways in research, including to support claims, illustrate ideas, and evoke emotion. They can also help researchers choose between aesthetic and ethical options. The exploration of quotations encompasses a wide array of studies that delve into their origins, meanings, and impacts on society. Researchers often analyze how quotes reflect cultural values, historical contexts, and the philosophies of their authors. This investigation can include examining the linguistic structures of quotes, their emotional resonance, and the ways in which they are utilized in various forms of communication, such as literature, speeches, and social media. By understanding the nuances of quotes, scholars can gain insights into the collective consciousness of different eras and communities. In the academic realm, the study of quotes is not merely an exercise in collecting notable phrases; it involves a rigorous analysis of their significance ...

Ms. Afrika Abney - Consultant Branding Blog

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