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

My Charter School Experiences

In 1992, I did not attend a charter school. I have had a wide range opportunities that took place at various schools. I have not provided any services for schools as a professional visual artist and art consultant for a while. Among them include when I served as a substitute teacher for Mundo Verde PCS in 2013, I can recall working with some of the students and staff and sharing my passion and extensive background in visual arts. Additionally, I can recall when I served as a substitute teacher for DC International School. I knew a little bit of Spanish, but as a professional visual artist, I really enjoyed sharing my love and extensive background in visual arts with the students and some of the staff members at DC International from 2016-2017. Also when I served as an art elective Summer Camp teacher for Higher Achievement in 2013, the program took place at Center City Capitol Hill Campus. Providing each of these services in the past were a great opportunity for me. However, sin...

Life in Black and White through the lens of the artist

Life in Black and White through the lens of the artist captures abstract paintings using black and white paint on paper to resemble how society, community and world divides human beings based on race and excludes them from activities. If we want racism and discrimination to end, we must stop segregating and racial inequity. I have created several paintings using only black and white colors to express how I have been impacted by racial profiling. When I mix both colors together, they make the color gray. "Black isn't a primary, secondary, or tertiary color. In fact, black isn't on the color wheel because it isn't considered a color. It's all colors. Or rather, the absorption of all colors. Black absorbs all light in the color spectrum." "White is clean, simple, and pure. It stands in stark opposition to black, and its meanings are unequivocal. As white light contains all the colors of the spectrum, it’s an inclusive, impartial color, favoring no single ...

The significance of compassion and harmony

“Compassion can be represented through a vibrant spectrum of colors, each hue symbolizing different aspects of this profound human emotion.I specifically chose Magenta. Magenta, a color that pulsates with a vibrant energy, embodies the multifaceted nature of compassion. Its rich hue, a blend of red's passionate intensity and blue's calming serenity, perfectly encapsulates the delicate balance inherent in compassionate action. Magenta's association with harmony and cooperation speaks to the interconnectedness that compassion fosters, suggesting a world where individuals work together, understanding and respecting each other's needs. Furthermore, its link to creativity and innovation highlights the transformative power of compassion, inspiring us to find new solutions and approaches to alleviate suffering. This vibrant color reminds us that compassion is not merely a passive emotion, but an active force that drives us to be kind, to understand, and to build a more just ...

Pop Art

Pop Art "paintings occurred as a reaction to abstract expressionism, which mid-1950s British artists believed was art that was far-removed from daily life. Pop art represents the movement to bring life back to the present." Pop Art Pop Art Characteristics "Recognizable imagery: Pop art utilized images and icons from popular media and products. Bright colors: Pop art is characterized by vibrant, bright colors. Irony and satire: Humor was one of the main components of Pop art."

Purple Muse

“Purple Muse draws on the creative essence of purple.The color purple is often associated with creativity, representing a blend of the calm stability of blue and the fierce energy of red. This unique combination evokes a sense of imagination and innovation.Purple encourages original thought and inspires individuals to explore new ideas, pushing the boundaries of conventional thinking. Its rich and vibrant hue can stimulate the mind, fostering an environment where creativity can flourish and thrive.”

Fine Arts Realm

Fine Arts Realm. Digital art created on canvas. October 4, 2024. Afrika Abney My academic journey in the realm of fine arts has equipped me with a profound understanding of the significance and worth of abstract art. Upon completing my studies at a reputable fine arts institution, I have come to appreciate the unique expressions and interpretations that abstract art offers. This appreciation has only deepened as I have engaged in the creation of my own abstract works, allowing me to explore the boundaries of artistic expression. In the Fine Arts Realm, there are many colors associated with fine arts. According to my research, some of them “include red, blue, purple and yellow.” Each of these colors represent creativity.

Golden Autumn Leaves

Golden Autumn Leaves. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney In my pursuit of creating my digital abstract paintings that capture the spirit of autumn, I delve deeply into the natural elements that define this season. I closely observe the sky,trees, leaves, and conduct extensive research ensuring that my work captures the various themes of autumn. Some of them include a sense of change, harvest, abundance, and reflection.

Father Absence

“Father’s Day is so hard for me.” —Unknown “Just remember when you are ignoring her, you are teaching her to live without you.” —Unknown “When your father is absent, you have to believe in yourself.” —Unknown “No matter how old you get. The hole in your heart created by your father’s absence still aches.Especially on father’s day.” —Unknown “He was supposed to be the first male love of your life you still search for him everywhere.” —Unknown Father Absence. Digital art created on canvas. Afrika Abney

Inspiration behind Balance and Harmony - Color Peach

Peach. Digital art created on canvas. August 17, 2024. Afrika Abney “The hue known as peach is created by blending together the colors yellow, orange, and white. This combination results in a soft, warm tone that embodies the vibrancy of orange while being tempered by the brightness of yellow and the lightness of white. The resulting shade is often associated with warmth, comfort, and a sense of calm, making it a popular choice in various design contexts, from fashion to interior decor. Peach is a color that emerges from the harmonious fusion of yellow, orange, and white. It conveys a sense of balance and tranquility, which is why peach is frequently utilized in artistic expressions and aesthetic applications.”

InteractPoint

InteractPoint. Digital art created on canvas. September 14, 2024. Afrika Abney “Research indicates that yellow is the color most commonly linked to communication. This association stems from the psychological effects that colors have on human perception and behavior. Yellow is often perceived as a bright and cheerful hue, which can evoke feelings of warmth and positivity. The dynamics of communication within the realm of professional visual artists and art consultants are pivotal in determining who receives attention and recognition in the art world. This interaction is influenced by various factors, including the artist's ability to articulate their vision, the consultant's expertise in navigating the art market, and the overall context in which the artwork is presented. Effective communication not only involves the exchange of ideas but also encompasses the strategies employed to ensure that the artist's work resonates with potential audiences, collectors, and critics a...

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

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