Spirit of the artist

“Not everything you do is going to be a masterpiece, but you get art there and you try and sometimes it really happens. The other times you’re just stretching your soul.” - Maya Angelou

“I suggest that the great art belongs to all people, all the time--that indeed it is made for the people, by the people, to the people.” Maya Angelou

When I create my abstract paintings whether on canvas or digital, I insert my entire spirit into my artwork using specific brushstrokes, technique and colors.

Spirit of the artist. Digital art created on canvas. Afrika Abney

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...

The interplay of light and dark colors

Quote found on the Internet The interplay of light and dark colors, particularly white and black, plays a crucial role in the realm of abstract painting. These contrasting hues serve not only as fundamental elements of visual composition but also as powerful tools for evoking emotions and conveying meaning. White, often associated with purity, clarity, and openness, can create a sense of space and tranquility within a piece. In contrast, black embodies depth, mystery, and intensity, allowing artists to explore themes of shadow and form. Together, these colors can establish a dynamic tension that invites viewers to engage with the artwork on a deeper level, prompting reflection and interpretation. Ultimately, the thoughtful use of light and dark colors enriches the abstract painting, transforming it into a compelling dialogue between the artist and the audience. In 2018 which was 6 years ago, there was no pandemic and I was not branding myself as a professional visual artist...

Radiant Thoughts

Radiant Thoughts. Digital art created on canvas. September 21, 2024. Afrika Abney “Radiant Thoughts are important in times of uncertainty, the power of optimistic thinking can serve as a guiding light, much like the warm tones of yellow ochre, bright yellow, and soft pale yellow. Yellow ochre, with its rich, earthy quality, embodies a grounded sense of hope and represents a blend of warmth and strength. It encourages the unknown with a sense of purpose, igniting a spark of determination. The brighter shade of yellow emerges as a symbol of proactive engagement and positive action. This vibrant hue acts as a beacon, reminiscent of sunlight piercing through a stormy sky, signifying that hope. Lastly, the gentle tone of pale yellow offers a soothing reminder of the importance of patience and perseverance. This delicate shade acknowledges the reality of challenges and the time required for optimism to take root and flourish. It encourages a thoughtful approach, emphasizing that even the sma...

Artistic Synergy

Artistic Synergy. Digital art created on canvas. August 22, 2024. Afrika Abney Quote found on the Internet “Paul Cézanne's quote, " There are two things in the painter, the eye and the mind; each of them should aid the other, " encapsulates the essence of the artistic process. With this profound statement, Cézanne highlights the fundamental elements that intertwine to create a masterpiece. The eye represents the artist's perception, their unique way of seeing the world and translating it onto canvas. It symbolizes the artist's individuality, creativity, and ability to capture the essence of their subject. On the other hand, the paintbrush signifies the technical aspect of painting, the practical tool used to materialize the artist's vision. It embodies the skill, expertise, and brushstrokes that shape each stroke and define the final artwork. Together, the eye and the paintbrush form an inseparable duo, coalescing the artist's creative perspective with th...

Happy Holidays

Happy Holidays. Digital art created on canvas. November 23, 2024. Afrika Abney The holiday season has always been a time for warmth and connection, a cherished opportunity to gather among friends and loved ones. It's a season marked by the sharing of genuine memories and meaningful conversations, where the focus shifts away from gossip, manipulation, and the mind games that can often threaten to sabotage relationships. Instead, the spirit of the holidays emphasizes kindness and understanding, Reflecting on my own experiences during this season, I recall vividly how I spent my time providing both pro bono and paid services at local churches, serving meals to those in need. Each plate I handed out wasn’t just food; it was a moment of connection, a shared smile, a fleeting yet impactful memory etched in time. Alongside this, I poured my creativity into making homemade cards and gifting my artwork, each piece handcrafted with love to spread joy in simple yet profound ways. Eac...

Christmas Eve

Quote found on the Internet It is Christmas Eve and I pray that those that celebrate Christmas prayers are answered. On this Christmas Eve, I would like my only prayer for a single hetrosexual male over the age of 30 to marry me. I believe that Christmas eve and Christmas are about genuine love, affection, showing compassion, demonstrating understanding, being trustworthy, loyal, faithful, having mutual respect and meaningful conversations without judgement, bias and prejudice. I do not want a hetrosexual husband that has no respect for himself and those that raised him to be a gentleman with standards, values, ethics, and self-expression. I do not believe in the superficiality of Christmas eve and Christmas. I believe in the essence of gifts that come from the heart and treasured stories that have symbolism, inspiration and instill principles such as determination and purpose. Some of the movies that I watched in the past on Christmas Eve include Frosty Snowman and ...

Warmth of Experience

“The intentional incorporation of orange-red in illustrating life experiences can significantly enrich the narrative journey, creating a vibrant canvas that accentuates both personal and professional achievements. This particular hue, with its energetic and warm qualities, invites contemplation and conversation, allowing for a more profound grasp of the various experiences that shape our lives. By using such a striking color, the storytelling becomes not just a recounting of events but an immersive exploration of emotions and insights. My own journey has been marked by a series of impactful experiences, including the persistent challenges posed by racism and discrimination, as well as the significant milestones of graduating from both high school and college. Each of these moments has contributed to my personal growth and understanding of the world around me. The struggles I faced with prejudice have not only shaped my identity but have also fueled my determination to succe...

Clouded Inspirations

“The color gray holds a unique position in the realm of abstract paintings, often embodying a sense of neutrality and balance. Its subtlety allows it to serve as a backdrop that enhances other colors, creating a harmonious interplay within the artwork. Gray can evoke a range of emotions, from calmness and serenity to melancholy and introspection, depending on its application and the surrounding hues. This versatility makes it an essential tool for artists seeking to convey complex themes and feelings without overwhelming the viewer. In abstract art, gray is frequently utilized to bridge contrasting elements, providing a visual respite that encourages contemplation. The absence of strong chromatic intensity in gray allows for a focus on form, texture, and composition, inviting viewers to engage with the piece on a deeper level. Artists may employ various shades of gray, from light silvery tones to deep charcoal, to create depth and dimension, further enhancing the overall impact o...

Golden Milestones

“The color gold serves as a powerful reminder of the past, encapsulating the essence of cherished memories and significant life events.It's warm and radiant quality can evoke feelings of joy and accomplishment, often associated with milestones such as art exhibitions, professional experiences and past workshops.” PAST SELECTED ART EXHIBITIONS • Virtual Art Exhibition and Poetry Reading. February 19, 2023 • The National Daughter Daddy Tour. National City Christian Church, Washington, D.C. 2004 - 2006 • Every Picture Tells A Story. Moca DC, Washington, D.C. January 6, 2006 – January 27, 2006 • "Visions." Ellingtons on 8th, Washington, D.C. May 31 - June 28, 2006.Curated by Prelli Anthony Williams. Reception, May 31, 2006 from 6-8pm and Closing Reception, June 28, 2006 • "The Power Within." El Tamarindo, Washington, D.C. July 1 - 31, 2006. Curated by D.Edward Dyer, President of Art N Deed, LLC. • "Images of Life." Phish Tea Cafe, Washington, D.C. J...

Creative Insights

I woke up from my restful sleep not too long ago and began to examine the quotes. Afterwards, I created my digital abstract paintings to accompany the quotes that I have selected using various colors on my digital palette on today, Thursday, October 17, 2024. Please keep in mind that I have no clue what you are discussing, but if you are curious about my blog content, it is related to my services that I provide as a consultant and my digital art creations. It is no longer the past. It is the middle of October 2024. My mission is to inspire and empower individuals and businesses. By combining visual storytelling with strategic insights, I aim to bring creativity and innovation to every project I undertake. Selected Expertise & Skills: Digital art creation using a variety of colors and techniques Strategic consulting for individuals and businesses Curating and pairing quotes with visual art for maximum impact Utilizing digital palettes to enhance artistic creations Selected Acc...

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