Behind the mask

"All of us have ways in which we mask and cover our pain." - Iyanla Vanzant

Behind the mask, I have worn since 2020 as a result of the pandemic which began on March 9, 2020, has been an experience that I thought I will not experienced. I have created many masks throughout my life. Behind the mask lies me, a black woman full of multiple experiences. I do not need to hide my pain behind a mask.

Behind the mask. Digital art created on canvas. Afrika Abney

Compassionate Harmony Palette

Compassionate Harmony Palette. Digital art created on canvas. September 20, 2024. Afrika Abney “The colors hot pink, pink, red, and orange embody essential qualities of compassion and harmony. Each hue carries its own emotional resonance, contributing to a palette that evokes feelings of warmth and understanding. Shades of pink, often associated with compassion, fosters a sense of nurturing and care, while red symbolizes passion and energy, igniting a fervent connection among individuals. Orange, a blend of the two, radiates enthusiasm and creativity, further enhancing the atmosphere of unity and support.”

Mellow Yellow

The hue of light yellow captures the essence of positivity and happiness that is often linked to the warmth of sunlight. This particular shade evokes feelings of cheerfulness and a sense of hope, reminiscent of bright, sunny days that uplift the spirit and encourage a more optimistic outlook on life. John Paul Caponigro: "How lovely yellow is! It stands for the sun". John Paul Caponigro expresses a profound appreciation for the color yellow, highlighting its intrinsic connection to the sun. He emphasizes the beauty and warmth that yellow embodies, suggesting that it evokes feelings of joy and positivity. This vibrant hue is often associated with brightness and energy, making it a symbol of optimism and cheerfulness in various contexts.

Golden Earth Blend

Golden Earth Blend. Digital art created on canvas. September 21, 2024. Afrika Abney “The hues of gold ochre and brown ochre represent a rich palette that evokes warmth and earthiness. Gold ochre, with its vibrant yellow undertones, captures the essence of sunlight and radiance. In contrast, brown ochre offers a more subdued and grounded tone, reminiscent of the earth and natural landscapes. Together, these colors create a harmonious balance.”

Value Embrace

Value Embrace. Digital art created on canvas. August 28, 2024. Afrika Abney “Embracing authenticity is essential for personal fulfillment and growth. It involves recognizing and accepting your own values, beliefs, and emotions without succumbing to external pressures or societal expectations.”

Representation of core values

“The color blue is commonly regarded as a representation of core values such as honesty, respect, integrity, and trust. This particular hue is often linked to attributes that nurture robust relationships and instill a sense of safety among individuals. Honesty is characterized by openness and a commitment to truth, while respect highlights the significance of acknowledging and valuing the viewpoints and emotions of others. Integrity is another essential value associated with the color blue, denoting a steadfast adherence to ethical principles and moral standards. It embodies the idea of being consistent in actions, values, and beliefs, which is crucial for building credibility. Trust, on the other hand, is the cornerstone of all significant relationships, enabling individuals to depend on one another and fostering a sense of community and belonging.”

Forward-looking approach

I kindly request that you refrain from repeatedly inquiring about the events of 1993. At that time, I was merely 16 years old, and the context of those years may not hold the same significance for me as it does for you. As we are now in the year 2024, it is important to focus on the present and the future rather than dwelling on the past. ART CURATOR. New Harlem Gallery, New York City. 1992 - 1993. Installed art for some of the exhibitions held at the New Harlem Gallery. Curated and installed diverse exhibitions, significantly enhancing visitor engagement. Organized art installations, promoting new artists and increasing gallery attendance. Planned exhibitions with attention to detail, creating compelling narratives. Collaborated with artists to select and arrange artworks, ensuring cohesive displays. High School Diploma, Bell Multicultural High School - 1993

Colors - Red, White and Blue

Red White and Blue. Digital art created on canvas. 2022. Afrika Abney “The vibrant hues of crimson, pristine white, and deep azure come together to create a striking visual representation that is both patriotic and evocative. These colors are often associated with national pride and identity, symbolizing the values and history of a nation. The combination of these shades not only captures attention but also stirs emotions, reminding individuals of their heritage and the sacrifices made for freedom and unity. When one thinks of the bold palette of scarlet, ivory, and cobalt, it evokes a sense of belonging and loyalty. Each color carries its own significance; the red often represents courage and valor, the white signifies purity and peace, while the blue embodies justice and vigilance. Together, they form a powerful triad that resonates deeply within the hearts of those who cherish their country, serving as a reminder of the ideals that bind them together.”

Canvas of Experiences

Canvas of Experiences. Digital art created on canvas. October 26, 2024. Afrika Abney I am a dedicated and passionate professional. In the 1990s up until 1996, I was a teenager. I chose brown ochre to represent the color of my skin. White and black to represent the racism and discrimination that I began to experience in the 1990s and continued beyond the 1990s. There is darkness within the experiences of racism and discrimination. However, the contrasting colors represent the persistence of overcoming the hardships of experiencing racism and discrimination. Selected 1992 - 1993 Experiences: Congressional Art Competition. 1992 - 1993 ART CURATOR. New Harlem Gallery, New York City. 1992 - 1993. Installed art for some of the exhibitions held at the New Harlem Gallery. Past 1995 - 1998 Workshops: KUUMBA ARTS AND CRAFTS PROGRAM. D.C. Department of Recreation (Emery Recreation Center, Parkview Recreation Center, Hamilton Recreation Center and Upshur Recreation Center) from ...

Radiant Traits

Radiant Traits. Digital art created on canvas. August 26, 2024. Afrika Abney The artwork titled Radiant Traits serves as a visual exploration of the duality between the exuberance of creativity and the intricate layers of personality. The bold yellow elements radiate warmth and energy, capturing the viewer's imagination and encouraging a sense of exploration and innovation. In contrast, the rich purple shades introduce a sense of depth and introspection, highlighting the nuanced aspects of human character. Together, these colors form a harmonious balance that not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the piece but also prompts a deeper understanding of how creativity and personality intertwine, ultimately enriching the viewer's experience and appreciation of the artwork.

The evolution of my abstract painting style

The evolution of my abstract painting style has been a fascinating journey marked by experimentation and growth. Initially, my approach was heavily influenced by traditional techniques, focusing on structured forms and a limited color palette. As I delved deeper into the world of abstraction, I began to embrace spontaneity and fluidity, allowing my emotions and instincts to guide my brushstrokes. This shift not only expanded my creative horizons but also led to a more personal expression in my work, as I started to explore themes of inclusion, injustice, discrimination, prejudice and much more.

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

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