Professional Visual Artist and Art Consultant Statement

Dynamic and dedicated visual artist with over 30 years of experience, starting my artistic journey at age five. Trained at prestigious institutions such as the Capitol Hill Arts Workshop and the Corcoran, I have developed a strong proficiency in abstract art and have made significant contributions through exhibitions at renowned venues like The Phillips Collection and the Corcoran Gallery of Art. My career highlights include national recognition in the Congressional Art Competition and a robust portfolio of workshops and advocacy for art's transformative power. As a professional visual artist and consultant, I empower organizations—from small businesses to non-profits—by fostering meaningful connections and developing innovative campaigns to effectively engage audiences. I prioritize building honest relationships through creative strategies, ensuring success in every project I undertake.

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Awareness in Color

Awareness in Color. Digital art created on canvas. October 2, 2024. Afrika Abney According to my research, “October serves as a significant month dedicated to various important causes, including Bullying Prevention Month, National Arts and Humanities Month, and Domestic Violence Awareness Month, particularly within the context of abstract painting. Each of these observances plays a crucial role in raising awareness and fostering discussions around their respective issues, encouraging communities to engage in meaningful dialogue and action. The focus on Bullying Prevention Month highlights the need for awareness and proactive measures to combat bullying in all its forms. This initiative aims to educate individuals about the impact of bullying and promote a culture of kindness and respect. Concurrently, National Arts and Humanities Month celebrates the vital role that the arts play in enriching our lives and communities, emphasizing the importance of creativity and expression in address...

DISCOVERY SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED

On December 9, 2023 three young ladies from the Washington Metropolitan Region were chosen by a team of prestigious judges as recipients of the prestigious Discovering Me Scholarship Award presented by Esther Productions Inc. in partnership with The Black Student Fund. The winners were selected based on the quality of their essays that told of the challenges they have faced related to growing up without the presence and active involvement of their fathers in their lives. The young essay writers also discussed how they have come to build resilience and to appreciate their own value and independence. Kenya Thomas received the top prize of $1500.00 for her heartfelt essay. The newly established $500 President's Award also was later given to Simaya Hammond. In the middle school category, cash awards were presented to Vanity Ewart-Smith and Makda Nana; they were 1st and 2nd Place winners respectively, receiving more than $700 in total prizes. Kariana Bates received an Honorable Mentio...

Sleepy Sky

Sleepy Sky draws inspiration from the soothing hue of light blue, which is closely associated with the vastness of the sky. This particular shade is not merely a visual element; it embodies a psychological effect that has been the subject of various studies. Research indicates that “light blue can significantly enhance feelings of serenity and peace, creating an environment conducive to relaxation and restful sleep.” The choice of light blue in Sleepy Sky is intentional, as it reflects the natural beauty of the sky while also promoting a calming atmosphere. “The psychological impact of this color is profound, as it has been shown to lower stress levels and induce a sense of tranquility.”

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.

World of drawing

My journey into the world of drawing commenced in my early childhood, and it has since evolved into a profound passion for visual arts. Over the years, I have sought formal education when I was enrolled into various art institutions, where I honed my skills and explored different artistic techniques. While I primarily gravitate towards an abstract drawing style, I have also ventured into portraiture, capturing the essence of individuals through my art. Unfortunately, some of the pieces I created during my student and younger adult years have either been donated to charitable causes or discarded, which has been a bittersweet aspect of my artistic journey. 1996. Afrika Abney. All art thrown away. Recently, I stumbled upon a digital drawing application known as Sketchbook, which has revolutionized the way I create art. This innovative software enables me to express my creativity without the need for traditional sketchbooks, allowing for a more flexible and modern approach to d...

Importance of Art Supplies for Visual Art Instruction

When you ask me to send you a list of supplies and art materials that I need to teach my art class, then say nothing was ordered. I, then, begin to inquire how do you except me to teach my art lessons? For example, paper is crucial for running a smooth art class. Maybe you wanted the students to paint on their skin. When you hire me to teach an art class, please do not think I am some beginner. That is an insult. Therefore, having art supplies is important for visual art instruction. If you do not have the art materials available for visual art instruction, why bother requesting for a list of art supplies that I needed? I should not have to use my own resources to provide visual art instruction. In conclusion, I have had to struggle with the use of limited materials to operate visual art instruction. Students should be able to use other colors other than the primary colors to create their masterpieces and painting on regular paper does not produce the best qua...

MidnightRose: A Reading Series of Poetry and Prose #3

Jan 11, 2025, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM EST Washington, 4450 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA MIDNIGHTROSE: A Reading Series of Poetry and Prose continues featuring three exciting poets and short story writers whose words and presentations will inspire and regal. Presented by Esther Productions Inc., the Institute for African American Writing and The Black Student Fund in partnership with The Tenley-Friendship Library, this third program in the Series. For those interested in learning more about this literary event, please feel free to reach out via email at midnightrosereadingseries@gmail.com . https://www.estherproductionsinc.com/events-1/midnightrose-a-reading-series-of-poetry-and-prose-jan-11-from-2-4pm-est DAVID NICHOLSON is the author of The Garretts of Columbia: A Black South Carolina Family from Slavery to the Dawn of Integration. His collection of short fiction, Flying Home: Seven Stories of the Secret City, was included on a Los Angeles Times list of boo...

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.”

Afrocentric Journey

My Afrocentric journey began at the private Afrocentric institution known as NationHouse, where I attended from the age of two until I was fourteen. This school provided a unique cultural environment that emphasized the importance of African heritage and identity. While my formal education at NationHouse did not include visual arts, the experience was rich in lessons about the natural world and the vibrant spectrum of colors that exist within it. "NationHouse instilled in me a deep appreciation for African history, traditions, and values. The curriculum focused on celebrating the contributions of African civilizations and challenging Eurocentric narratives that often marginalized the achievements of people of African descent." As I reflect on my time at NationHouse, I am grateful for the Afrocentric education I received and the impact it has had on my personal and professional development. The values and principles instilled in me during those formative years continue to gu...

Digital art and branding journey

With the conclusion of August 2024 on the horizon, I want to take a moment to reflect on my journey. Back in 1981, I was just a curious five-year-old, exploring the world around me with wide-eyed wonder. Fast forward to today, I have no clue what you are discussing because my goal is to share my digital art through various branding posts. It's amazing to see how much I've grown and evolved over the years, from that little child full of wonder to the creative individual I am today. As I look back on the past few decades, I realize that every experience, every challenge, and every success has shaped me into the person I am today. From the early days of my childhood to the present moment, each chapter of my life has contributed to my growth and development. And now, as August 2024 comes to a close, I am filled with gratitude for all the lessons I have learned along the way. Despite the uncertainties of the future, I am confident in my ability to navigate whatever challenges come...

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

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