Skip to main content

Experienced Professional Visual Artist and Art Consultant | Digital & Email Marketing Specialist




I am a seasoned professional in the visual arts industry with a passion for promoting art events and workshops. With a rich background at renowned institutions like New Harlem Gallery and The Phillips Collection, I have successfully collaborated with a diverse range of clients, including galleries, schools, and museums.

Mission:

My mission is to utilize my expertise in digital, email, and social media marketing to showcase the beauty and significance of art to a broader audience. Through strategic promotion and creative branding, I aim to elevate the visibility of art events and workshops, fostering a deeper appreciation for the arts.

Expertise & Skill:

  • Digital Marketing: Specializing in social media marketing to leverage various platforms for maximum exposure.

  • Email Marketing: Providing tailored email marketing services to small businesses and non-profit organizations.

  • Online Advertisement: Creating engaging online advertisements to attract target audiences.

  • Online Flyer Dissemination: Posting over 200 flyers online to promote events hosted by esteemed organizations.

  • Press Release Distribution: Sending out over 30 press releases to generate buzz and attract attendees to art events.

Accomplishments:

I have successfully promoted a multitude of events, including the Annual BZB Gift and Art Show, National Daddy Daughter Reunion Tour, and The Gift, among many others. My extensive portfolio includes a wide array of projects that have garnered attention and accolades within the art community.

Call to Action:

If you are seeking a dedicated professional to elevate your art events and workshops through innovative marketing strategies, I am here to help. Let's collaborate to bring your vision to life and captivate audiences with the power of art. Connect with me today to discuss how I can contribute to your success.


https://abneyartist.weebly.com/professional-visual-artist-and-art-consultant-services1.html



Ms. Afrika Abney is a professional visual artist and art consultant who has been providing services since 1992. She is praised for her talent, energy, and ability to organize diverse communities. Testimonials from colleagues and art critics highlight her passion and skill in creating powerful and emotional artwork. Ms. Abney has worked as a teaching artist at various organizations, receiving praise for her professionalism and dedication to arts education. She has also conducted workshops, such as Kuumba Expressions, where she taught young students about art history and various styles of art. Participants and parents have commended her for engaging and educating children while fostering their creativity. Overall, Ms. Afrika Abney is recognized for her talent, passion, and dedication to the arts, making her a highly recommended visual artist and art consultant.



"There is no mystery as to the talent, energy and spirit that Ms Afrika Abney brings to a very diverse community. Her artistic skills are enhanced by her ability to organize such a community. Ms Abney is a motivator, innovator and an inspiration that would make any organization, institution be proud to have you on its staff."- J'Huti Ta Seti, Speech Pathologist/Educator"


"It has been such a long time. I am happy to know that you remain passionate and invested in art and art education!" - Jorge Somarriba, Former Art Teacher at Bell Multicultural High School


"If developing a career path is any evidence, native Washingtonian Afrika Abney is a woman who knows what she wants and goes for it." - Jennifer Lash, Journalist


"I thought that your work had the right balance of form/no form to engage the imagination. They looked fluid, like they had movement." - Dr. Trent Tucker


" My initial feeling viewing your art is breathtaking art with dynamic colors. Since your art are of abstract expressionist elements, I can interpret the subject in context of personal experience or can reconsider the subject of the canvas from an alternate visual perspective than usual similar to learning a language with alternate ways to express a concept; visual elements on your canvas can have a power like an echo that moves on textural planes color fields, or be resonant and penetrating to view because they are relative and interdependent." - Renee Winfield, Graphic Designer


"Your work is powerful." - Marilyn Hayes, Women Caucus of the Arts (WCA/DC)


"Wow! So much emotion goes into your artwork." - Paula Bannerman, Artist


"I feel your art as being soft and strong, your colors and patterns pleasant, warm and inviting." - A. Theresa Bragg, Public Relations Director, Phish Tea Cafe


"She uses layers of swirls and strokes to capture sky scenes with a palette of blue, green and magenta. Each of these breathtaking paintings has solid, rotund, sculptural forms unfolding in a majestic symphony." - Misty Brown, Arts Critic


"I love colors. I think colors are striking. The contrast of her usage of colors is remarkable. I love the way she paints. I feel a lot of emotions when I look at her work." - Jennifer Hardy, Collector


"I love it when an artist is not afraid of color. Your art is fabulous." - Jennifer Golden, Artist


"From October 2012 -May 2013, Afrika Abney worked for Young Playwrights' Theatre (YPT) as an after-school visual arts teaching artist from at Harriet Tubman Elementary School. During this time, she has proven herself to be a loyal employee and a gifted teaching artist. Her presence in the classroom is strong, and her genuine caring for her students is obvious. She shows a clear understanding of the importance of arts education. She is also timely, hardworking and professional." - Laurie Ascoli


​"Afrika Abney was employed by Young Playwrights' Theater (YPT) from October 2012 - May 2013, when I was YPT's Artistic Director. Ms. Abney was placed at Harriet Tubman Elementary School, teaching visual arts to very young students. This was a pilot program, and Ms. Abney proved her skills especially in working with this age group. She was always professional and completed the residency to our satisfaction. "- Nicole Jost ​


​"My grandkids had a wonderful time at the Kuumba Expressions Workshop. They were engaged the entire time. The workshop was therapeutic, relaxing (my grandson on a normal day cannot be still for 10 mins) and amazingly educational. Ms. Abney gave them Art History lessons as she had them to ​explore various styles of art. She pointed out similarities of the kids work with those of famous artists such as Romare Bearden, Pablo Picasso, Lee, Lois M. Jones, Elizabeth Catlette and others. She exposed them to lines, shapes, brushes. She is so talented and knowledgeable about her craft. The other children there also had a great time and they were all proud of their work. She even had them display their works in the Art Gallery where they discussed their pieces and thoughts behind their creativeness. My grandchildren want to be back again. Thank you Ms. Abney for bringing out the creativity in children who had no idea they have gifts of expression. "- Roxanne Richardson, January 31, 2015


​"I thought the event went very well. It was organized and you kept the children engaged. " - Saundrell Stevens, Co Owner of Culture Coffee, January 31, 2015


​"In 2016, we helped Ms. Afrika Abney present her art workshops entitled: Kuumba ​Expressions. She has demonstrated herself as a natural teacher and a talented professional artist. We at Esther Productions Inc. recommend her highly. " - Esther Productions, Inc








Popular posts from this blog

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...

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...

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.

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.”

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...

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...

Tapestry of Time

Tapestry of Time. Digital art created on canvas. September 23, 2024. Afrika Abney “The season of autumn serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of life, where light and shadow coexist in a delicate balance. As the vibrant colors of the leaves begin to fade, the shadows deepen, creating a rich tapestry that reflects both the beauty and the impermanence of the world around us. This contrast of colors such as dark red, gold ochre, brown ochre and dark orange not only highlight the transition from one season to another but also encourages a deeper reflection on the passage of time and the changes that accompany it.”