What was your favorite subject in high school?

When I was in high school from 1991 - 1993, my favorite subject in high school was art. My art teacher was Jorge Somarriba.

The above photos were taken while I was a high school student at Bell from 1991 - 1993. I gave away the clothing articles and jewelry shown in the photos above. Additionally, I donated the artwork shown above.

"Jorge Somarriba, a Nicaraguan born artist who lives in Gaithersburg. He immigrated to the United States in 1975 and has taught art at the Bell Multicultural High School and Norwood School in Bethesda.

Art is an important expression of life that documents the thoughts, experiences, and traditions of an individual. Art is the power to create a specific piece using various materials hightened by tone, volume, depth, and definition. Art is the tool for healing the mind, body and spirit. Art is the colors that glow upon the eyes of both the artist and the viewer. Art is the beauty of the human eye.

The artist frequently is engaged in a dual relationship: one with the materials used for creation; the other with the perceived audience. Allowing the audience to gather its own perspective and to find its own story.

I believe it is truly a blessing to be an artist.

For Art comes natural to me.

Contrast Chronicles

Contrast Chronicles. Digital art created on canvas. August 20, 2024. Afrika Abney The essence of my life can be described as a canvas painted in shades of black and white. Through my abstract digital painting, I have chosen to express this dichotomy by focusing solely on these two colors. This choice not only emphasizes the simplicity of the palette but also invites viewers to engage with the complexities that lie within the interplay of light and shadow. In my abstract digital painting, Contrast Chronicles, unfolds through the contrasts of black and white.

Shades of Purple Horizon

Shades of Purple Horizon. Digital art created on canvas. August 23, 2024. Afrika Abney "If you can imagine it, you can achieve it. If you can dream it, you can become it." ~ William Arthur Ward

Sacred Spectrum

Sacred Spectrum. Digital art created on canvas. September 21, 2024. Afrika Abney “The concept of a sacred circle within the domain of abstract painting embodies a profound exploration of artistic expression and spiritual significance. This notion suggests a space where creativity transcends the ordinary. In this context, the sacred circle serves as a metaphorical boundary that encapsulates the essence of the creative process, allowing for a unique interplay between form, color, and emotion through red, white, purple, dark green, lavendar, and blue. The interplay of colors evokes a spectrum of emotions, each hue resonating with distinct feelings and associations. Red, often linked to passion and intensity.White, on the other hand, represents purity and peace, offering a sense of calm and clarity. Purple is frequently associated with creativity and spirituality, inviting introspection and deeper thought. Dark green conveys a sense of stability and growth, often linked to nature and renew...

Gentle Shades

Gentle Shades is a captivating artwork crafted through the use of digital software, employing a rich palette of oil pastels. The composition features a harmonious blend of light blue, turquoise, pale green, and seafoam, which together evoke a sense of tranquility and serenity. The digital medium allows for a unique interplay of colors and textures, enhancing the visual appeal and depth of the piece. Each hue is thoughtfully applied, creating a soothing atmosphere that invites viewers to immerse themselves in its calming essence. The use of pastel colors or gentle shades can also enhance the overall composition, drawing attention to the interplay of shapes and forms while maintaining a delicate balance.

Cerulean Canvas

“The color blue in abstract paintings often embodies a range of qualities that evoke various emotional and psychological responses. It is frequently associated with tranquility and calmness, creating a serene atmosphere that invites viewers to reflect and contemplate. The use of blue can also suggest depth and infinity, reminiscent of vast skies and deep oceans, which can lead to a sense of exploration and introspection. Artists may employ different shades of blue to convey distinct moods, from the soft pastels that evoke a gentle, soothing feeling to the bold, vibrant hues that can energize and inspire. In the realm of abstract art, blue serves as a powerful tool for expression, allowing artists to communicate complex ideas and emotions without the constraints of representational forms. The versatility of blue enables it to interact harmoniously with other colors, enhancing the overall composition and creating dynamic contrasts. For instance, when paired with warm colors like or...

Autumnal Skies

Autumnal Skies. Digital art created on canvas. September 2, 2024. Afrika Abney

James A. Porter

"James Amos Porter was the first African American art historian. Born on December 22, 1905 in Baltimore, Maryland, he was the son of Lydia and John Porter, a prominent minister in the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church. Porter graduated cum laude in 1927 with a Bachelor of Science in art from Howard University. After graduating, he became an instructor of drawing and painting at Howard, teaching for 40 years, during which he was described as a gifted and influential teacher. Porter continued his education at the Art Student League in New York City, New York under Dimitri Romanovsky. Later, he met research librarian Dorothy Burnett in Harlem and married her on December 27, 1929. They had one daughter, Constance Porter. In 1933, Porter, now an artist, received the Schomburg Portrait Prize, from the Harmon Foundation, for his piece “Woman Holding a Jug.” He continued his studies in 1935 after a fellowshi...

BoldContrast

BoldContrast.Digital art created on canvas. September 5, 2024. Afrika Abney “The contrasting nature of these colors can help to convey specific messages or themes, such as creativity, enthusiasm, and stability.”

Winter Solstice

Winter Solstice. Digital art created on canvas. December 21, 2024. Afrika Abney “Winter Solstice is the transition from darkness to light, often incorporating elements such as meditation and reflection.” It is associated with the colors red and green.

Professional Palette

Professional Palette. Digital art created on canvas. August 14, 2024. Afrika Abney Throughout my career, I have gained extensive experience in conventional environments as a professional visual artist and art consultant. At this stage in my life, I am not interested in pursuing a romantic relationship with any single man who is over the age of 30. My primary concentration lies in the realms of branding and digital art, where I aim to offer my expertise as a professional visual artist and art consultant. My approach to digital art involves the integration of diverse artistic elements, which I skillfully manipulate using advanced digital software. This allows me to create unique and compelling visual pieces that resonate with audiences. I am dedicated to refining my craft and exploring new techniques that enhance my artistic expression and the overall impact of my work. As I continue to develop my professional identity, I remain committed to providing high-quality services in visua...

Ms. Afrika Abney, Professional Visual Artist and Art Consultant- Branding Blog

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