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

  Chromatic Spiral. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney 

  Swirling motion of the colors. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney 

“Verdant vision includes imaginative thinking and innovative ideas. This approach promotes a spirit of cooperation and encourages the integration of different perspectives, resulting in more profound dialogues and improved strategies for addressing issues. The significance of imaginative thinking in abstract painting cannot be overstated, as it serves as the foundation for innovation and originality in the art form. The exploration of innovative ideas in abstract painting broadens the artistic landscape but also deepens the emotional and intellectual connections between art and its audience. By embracing new technologies and formats, challenging traditional notions of what art can be, pushing the boundaries of creativity and expression. This evolution not only revitalizes the genre but also ensures that abstract art remains a vibrant and relevant form of communication in an increasingly complex world, inviting everyone to partake in its limitless possibilities.”

I embody a range of admirable qualities, including unwavering courage, steadfast determination, and deep devotion. These traits not only define my character but also guide my actions and decisions in both personal and professional realms. My courage allows me to face challenges head-on, while my determination drives me to pursue my goals relentlessly. Additionally, my devotion to my commitments ensures that I remain focused and dedicated. Some of my core values that I possess are empathy and compassion, which guide my interactions with others by understanding and supporting them in various situations. Some of my goals are centered around several key objectives, including the sale of my artwork, the production and creation of new pieces, and the opportunity to exhibit my work publicly.

“The color gold symbolizes memories and life events, evoking feelings of joy and achievement.” Past art exhibitions and professional experiences include events like the Virtual Art Exhibition, The National Daughter Daddy Tour, and various curated showcases in Washington, D. C. Professional experiences include working as a Visual Artist and Art Consultant since 1981, guiding clients in art acquisition, teaching visual arts classes, curating exhibitions, and managing gallery operations. Other roles include being an Arts Specialist at the Edlavitch Jewish Community Center, a Substitute Teacher at various schools, and an Affiliated Teaching Artist at Young Playwrights' Theatre. Art workshops in the past include the Kuumba Arts and Crafts Program, Kuumba Expressions, and Community Career Day Visual Art Workshops, where techniques like drawing, painting, abstract design, and clay work were taught to children and youth, enhancing their artistic skills. Overall, the journey as a visual a

  “The integration of visual arts, poetry, and prose serves as a powerful tool for promoting wellness. Engaging with these creative forms allows individuals to express their emotions and thoughts, fostering a deeper understanding of their inner selves. The act of creating or appreciating art can lead to therapeutic benefits, as it encourages mindfulness and provides an outlet for stress relief. By immersing oneself in the beauty of visual arts or the rhythm of poetry and prose, individuals can cultivate a sense of peace and emotional balance. Exploring the realms of visual arts, poetry, and prose can significantly enhance one's overall well-being. These artistic expressions not only serve as a means of communication but also as a pathway to healing. Through the creation or contemplation of art, individuals can confront their feelings, process experiences, and find solace in the shared human condition. The transformative power of these mediums lies in their ability to evoke emotions

Creative Brushstrokes. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney

Warmth of a sunrise. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney

Autumn’s Serenity Sunset. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney “The autumn season is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets, which paint the sky in a stunning array of colors. As the days grow shorter and the air becomes crisp, the sun descends on the horizon, casting a warm glow that contrasts beautifully with the cool tones of the season. The vibrant hues of orange, red, and purple blend seamlessly, creating a picturesque backdrop that captivates the senses and invites reflection. This natural spectacle is often enhanced by the changing foliage, as trees shed their leaves, allowing for unobstructed views of the horizon.”

  Autumn Muse Canvas. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney  “Autumn Muse Canvas captures the essence of the fall season, showcasing a vibrant tapestry of colors that evoke the beauty and tranquility of nature during this time of year. The artwork is a celebration of hues of autumn, featuring orange, dark red, and yellow-ochre that blend seamlessly to create a visually stunning piece. This canvas serves as a reminder of the fleeting beauty of autumn.” The blank canvas is designed to create inspiration for creativity through a wide selection of hues capturing the essence of autumn.

Spectrum of Autumn. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney The words that I choose associated with Autumn include transformation, colors and nature. According to my research, “autumn is marked by change as the landscape shifts from summer to winter. Trees shedding leaves create a picturesque scene of reds, oranges, and yellows. The beauty of autumn lies in its rich colors, symbolizing the season's essence. Nature showcases its transformative power through the changing landscape, inviting reflection on the cyclical nature of life and appreciation for the natural world.” .

Autumn Insights. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney “Autumn Insights emphasize the importance of embracing the present, cultivating a sense of gratitude, engaging in self-reflection, and maintaining an optimistic outlook toward the future. This season serves as a reminder to appreciate the beauty of the current moment.” I choose the colors yellow and blue to create Autumn Insights.

  Crisp Air Gifts.Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney “Crisp Air Gifts embodies the invigorating essence of autumn, suggesting that its offerings are both refreshing and delightful. It draws inspiration from the natural elements of the season, such as the cool air, the shimmering water, and the gentle light that characterizes this time of year. It evokes the sensations and experiences that autumn brings, creating a connection to the beauty of nature coupled with the moments and memories of autumn.” The colors used to create Crisp Air Gifts include blue and yellow.

Autumn Professionalism. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney According to my research, “professionalism during the autumn season is illustrated through the colors blue and yellow representing strategic thinking, effective time management, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.”

Autumnal Brush. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney “According to my research,techniques for creating digital abstract paintings that depict autumn can be captured through bold brush strokes to mimic the swirling winds or layering colors to represent the falling 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.

Seasonal Brushstrokes. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney During the autumn season, I enjoy the process of creating art, a passion I have nurtured for more than 35 years. The colors of fall which serve as a profound source of inspiration for my artistic endeavors. Each brushstroke and every detail I incorporate into my work reflects the beauty and transformation that this season brings, allowing me to express my creativity in a way that resonates deeply with the essence of autumn. Seasonal Brushstrokes capture brushstrokes that portray emotions and movements through the colors red, yellow, orange, brown-ochre and gold-ochre. I am passionate about highlighting the unique brushwork that captures the beauty and emotion of autumn.With expertise in capturing the essence of autumn through my brushstrokes, I bring a blend of technical skill and emotional depth to each piece.

Autumn’s Influence. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney “According to my research, autumn’s influence is derived from a variety of environmental factors such as the transformation of leaves on trees into shades of yellow, orange, red, and brown during the autumn season. As daylight hours decrease and temperatures begin to drop, trees respond to these changes by slowing down their production of chlorophyll, the green pigment responsible for photosynthesis. This reduction in chlorophyll allows other pigments present in the leaves, such as carotenoids and anthocyanins, to become more visible, resulting in the vibrant colors associated with fall foliage.”

Dynamics of Autumn. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney “According to my research, the dynamics of autumn embodies a fascinating interplay of scientific principles, natural phenomena, and the intricate dynamics of color theory. As the season transitions, it showcases the remarkable changes in the environment, driven by both biological processes and climatic shifts. The transformation of leaves, for instance, is not merely a visual spectacle but a complex biochemical reaction influenced by factors such as temperature, daylight, and moisture levels. This seasonal metamorphosis serves as a vivid reminder of the interconnectedness of life and the scientific laws that govern it. The dynamics of autumn can be understood through the lens of nature's artistry, where the vibrant hues of falling leaves illustrate the principles of color theory. As chlorophyll breaks down, the underlying pigments emerge, revealing a palette of reds, oranges, and yellows that captiv

Nature’s Vibrant Tapestry. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney “The essence of nature within the context of abstract painting takes on a unique character during the autumn season. As the leaves transition from vibrant greens to a rich tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows creating a breathtaking landscape that captivates the senses. This seasonal change is not merely aesthetic; it signifies a time of preparation for the colder months ahead, as plants and animals adapt to the shifting climate. The crisp air carries the scent of fallen leaves and the earthy aroma of damp soil, enhancing the overall experience of being immersed in nature during this time. This connection to nature fosters a sense of tranquility and mindfulness.”

Autumn’s Radiant Palette. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney My top autumn colors include dark red, red, dark orange, orange, and yellow. “Dark red symbolizes the transition from the vibrant life of summer to the more subdued tones of fall, inviting a sense of reflection and change. As the leaves continue to transform, red and orange emerge, adding a lively vibrancy to the landscape. These colors are reminiscent of the setting sun, casting a warm glow that enhances the beauty of the season. The interplay of these shades not only captivates the eye but also signifies the harvest time, a period of abundance and gratitude.Finally, the lighter tones of orange and yellow complete the autumnal spectrum, bringing a cheerful brightness to the scenery.”

Beauty of Expression.Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney “Transformative power of creativity is designed to inspire and uplift through the beauty of expression and imagination.”

  Shadow Sunset. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney “The Shadow Sunset is characterized by a striking blend of deep black, vibrant yellow, and rich orange hues. This unique combination creates a dramatic visual effect, where the darkness of black serves as a backdrop, allowing the warm tones of yellow and orange to stand out prominently. The interplay of these colors evokes a sense of mystery and warmth, reminiscent of the fleeting moments when day transitions into night.”

Creative Resilience Palette. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney Creativity and resilience are depicted through the colors red, yellow, purple and burnt umber.

  “The period between 1978 to 1997, witnessed a significant emergence of African-American visual artists in Washington, D.C. This era was marked by a vibrant cultural renaissance that not only highlighted the contributions of these artists but also reflected the broader socio-political landscape of the time. The artistic community in D.C. became a crucial platform for African-American voices, showcasing a diverse range of styles and mediums that challenged prevailing narratives and celebrated cultural identity. During these two decades, various galleries, exhibitions, and art collectives played a pivotal role in promoting the work of African-American artists. Institutions such as the Corcoran Gallery of Art and the Anacostia Community Museum became essential venues for showcasing their talent, providing visibility and recognition to artists who had often been marginalized in the mainstream art world. This period also saw the rise of influential figures who not only created impactful wo

  “In the 1980s, I pursued my studies in fine arts at the Corcoran School of the Arts, a prestigious institution located in Washington, D.C. This period was instrumental in shaping my visual artistic vision and honing my skills in various mediums. The Corcoran School provided a rich environment for creativity, allowing me to explore different techniques and concepts that would later influence my work. Following my initial studies, I continued my visual arts education from 1993 to 1997 in Washington, D.C. This phase of my academic journey further deepened my understanding of fine arts and expanded my exposure to contemporary practices. Engaging with a diverse community of visual artists and art educators during this time enriched my perspective and fostered a collaborative spirit that was vital to my development. The combination of my experiences at the Corcoran School in the 1980s and my subsequent studies in the mid-1990s laid a solid foundation for my career in the visual arts. The k

Harvest Weather. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney “The colors of harvest weather span a spectrum from deep gray to gentle blue, creating a vivid portrayal of the season's essence. These shades reflect the crispness in the air, echoing the transformation of the sky as it shifts through various tones. This dynamic interplay of color not only beautifies the scenery but also fosters a stronger bond with the environment.”

Foggy Autumn Essence.Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney “The atmosphere during autumn is often enveloped in a thick layer of fog, creating a mysterious and serene environment. The landscape is transformed into a palette of light gray and medium gray hues.”

Autumn's Abstract Sunset. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney

Depth of Dark hues. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney

Branding Initiative Palette. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney In 2021, I developed a branding initiative that reflects my expertise as a professional visual artist and art consultant. “Furthermore, this initiative aims to create a cohesive image that resonates with both the artistic community and potential clients. By emphasizing unique artistic styles and consulting expertise, the initiative seeks to differentiate these professionals in a competitive market. By creating engaging content that showcases my work and expertise, the branding effort will not only build a loyal following but also facilitate networking opportunities within the art community. This multifaceted approach aims to establish a lasting presence in the art world, ultimately leading to increased visibility, credibility, and business growth for the professionals involved.” Why visual artists and art consultants need a branding blog? https://abneyartist.blogspot.com/2024/07/why-visual-art

    Autumnal Expressions. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney “Autumnal Expressions encapsulate the essence of the fall season, a time when nature undergoes a remarkable transformation. As the days grow shorter and temperatures begin to drop, the landscape is painted in dark brown, deep dark brown, deep red and deep magenta.This seasonal shift not only affects the environment but also evokes a range of emotions and reflections. The beauty of autumnal expressions lies not only in the visual splendor of the season but also in the deeper meanings and emotions it inspires in creativity and productivity.”

  “According to my research,deep magenta is often linked to the essence of autumn, evoking a sense of warmth and vibrancy as the season transitions. This striking color captures the beauty of falling leaves and the changing landscape, where nature showcases its most vivid tones. As the days grow shorter and the air becomes crisp, deep magenta emerges as a prominent shade, reminiscent of the stunning sunsets that grace the autumn sky.”

  “The essence of autumnal artistry lies in its capacity to resonate with the heart, allowing for a unique exploration of emotions tied to the changing season. Autumn began last week and stirs a unique blend of emotions within me, igniting a spark of creativity and a surge of productivity. As the leaves transform into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows, I find myself inspired by the beauty of nature's transition. This season, with its crisp air and shorter days, encourages introspection and reflection, allowing my mind to wander freely and explore new ideas. The changing landscape serves as a canvas, prompting me to express my thoughts and feelings through digital abstract paintings and representation of solid colors.” As today is Sunday, September 29, 2024 and I will be working on my selection of solid colors,digital art, and my branding.  Last week, Autumn began and I hope that you have a safe day. 

  “According to my research the deep dark brown color embodies the spirit of autumn, effectively capturing the seasonal shift and the inherent beauty that it brings. This particular shade mirrors the earthy tones found in fallen foliage, the rugged texture of tree bark, and the rich soil that becomes more visible as nature readies itself for the chillier months ahead. The deep brown hue serves as a visual representation of the transition that occurs in the environment, highlighting the intricate relationship between color and the changing seasons. Deep Dark brown also carries connotations of time's passage and the wisdom that often accompanies it. Observing the aging process of wood or the subtle transformations within the landscape, this color resonates with the enduring cycles of life. It acts as a poignant reminder of the value of patience and the inherent beauty that lies within the natural rhythms of growth and decay. In this context, dark brown becomes a symbol of the profoun

  “According to my research dark brown, with its profound and velvety quality, is intrinsically linked to the autumn season. It symbolizes the gradual shift in the landscape as trees shed their vibrant foliage, leaving behind a tapestry of muted colors.  It embodies the strength and resilience of the earth, often symbolizing growth and renewal.”

  Serene Breeze. Digital art created on canvas. September 28, 2024. Afrika Abney

  CloudBreeze. Digital art created on canvas. September 28, 2024. Afrika Abney

Dusk Skies. Digital art created on canvas. September 28, 2024. Afrika Abney

Autumn Depths of Emotions. Digital art created on canvas. September 28, 2024. Afrika Abney “According to my research, the emotional depth of autumn is vividly exhibited through its colors and cyclical nature of life. The brilliant shades that adorn the trees not only captivate the eye but also stir the soul, prompting introspection and a deeper appreciation for the fleeting moments of life. Introspection: The shorter days and cooler weather of autumn can lead to a more introspective mood. The changing seasons can serve as a metaphor for the cycle of life, prompting contemplation about personal growth and change.” The colors that I choose to create Autumn Depths include dark red, dark orange and indigo purple.

Mindful Harmony. Digital art created on canvas. September 28, 2024. Afrika Abney Autumn is a great time to indulge in mindfulness by relaxing the mind and closing the eyes, while visualizing the essence of serenity and tranquility through the colors navy blue, pale yellow and dark green. According to my research, “the color navy blue evokes a sense of calmness and tranquility, while the soft pale yellow brings warmth and light, creating a harmonious balance with the grounding presence of dark green, reminiscent of the lush foliage that remains.”

Autumnal Pause. Digital art created on canvas. September 28, 2024. Afrika Abney Gaze upon the sky, meditate, pray and pausing during the autumn season to enjoy the crisp air and colors of the leaves.

Colorful Introspection. Digital art created on canvas. September 28, 2024. Afrika Abney Autumn's present moment is captured through creativity and introspection which are found in the colors dark red, yellow, and purple. According to my research, “each hue brings its own unique energy, creating a visual feast that captures attention and stirs the imagination of the autumn season. The dark red evokes a sense of reflection and self-examination, while the yellow in nature signifies a shift towards cooler temperatures and shorter days, and the purple enhances the beauty of nature, but also evokes a sense of tranquility and reflection.”

Fading Foliage. Digital art created on canvas. September 28, 2024. Afrika Abney “Autumn's past fading light and shorter day signals the transition into the colder months. The vibrant hues of fall foliage, ranging from dark red to yellow-ochre begin to lose their brilliance, signaling the end of a season characterized by warmth and abundance. This period of transition is not only a visual spectacle but also a time for reflection, as nature prepares for a period of dormancy and rest.”

Autumn's Complexity. Digital art created on canvas. September 28, 2024. Afrika Abney “Autumn's Complexity extends beyond its visual splendor. It is a time of reflection and change, as the harvest season brings an abundance of crops and a sense of gratitude for nature's bounty. According to my research, the autumn of the 1990s in Washington, DC was marked by a hopeful yet uncertain outlook, the current season in 2024 embodies a more nuanced reality. The optimism of the past has evolved into a determined resilience, as individuals and communities work to forge a path forward amidst ongoing challenges. The vibrant hues of autumn still grace the city, but they now serve as a backdrop to a more complex dialogue about identity, purpose, and the future. This evolution reflects not only the passage of time but also the shifting priorities and aspirations of a society that continues to adapt and respond to the world around it.” From 1991 - 1997, I was a student. I received my high s

Dusk & Dawn Autumn Palette. Digital art created on canvas. September 28, 2024. Afrika Abney “The depiction of daylight in autumn captures the vibrant and luminous shades characteristic of the season, prominently featuring bright yellows and rich oranges. These colors reflect the warmth and vitality of the sun as it casts its golden light over the landscape, illuminating the changing foliage and creating a picturesque scene that embodies the essence of fall. The interplay of light during this time enhances the beauty of nature, inviting observers to appreciate the seasonal transformation. In contrast, the portrayal of nighttime during the autumn months evokes a sense of depth and mystery through the use of darker color palettes. Shades such as indigo purple, navy blue, and burnt umber dominate the scene, creating an atmosphere that is both serene and contemplative. The inclusion of dark red, black, and dark orange further enriches this nocturnal representation, suggesting the quie

Harvest Night. Digital art created on canvas. September 28, 2024. Afrika Abney “Based on my findings, the rich and deep hues that embody the spirit of autumn encompass shades such as indigo purple, navy blue, burnt umber, dark red, dark orange, and black. These colors collectively evoke the atmosphere of Harvest Night, reflecting the season's transition and the bounty it brings. Indigo purple, a deep and rich hue that evokes a sense of mystery and depth. Complementing this is navy blue, a classic and sophisticated tone that brings a sense of calm and stability. The addition of burnt umber introduces an earthy warmth, reminiscent of autumn leaves and natural landscapes, while dark red adds a bold and passionate element to the mix. Dark orange contributes a vibrant and energetic quality, reminiscent of a sunset or the changing leaves of fall, infusing the palette with a sense of warmth and enthusiasm. Finally, the presence of black serves as a grounding force, providing contrast and

Harvest Palette.Digital art created on canvas. September 28, 2024. Afrika Abney According to my research, “the hues of autumn present a rich tapestry of colors that evoke the essence of the season. Among these, one can observe deep shades of red that resemble the vibrant leaves clinging to the trees, alongside striking oranges that capture the warmth of the sun as it begins to set earlier in the day. The darker tones of orange and yellow-ochre add depth to the landscape, while bright yellows and shimmering golds reflect the fading light, creating a stunning contrast against the backdrop of the changing foliage. As the season progresses, the palette expands to include regal purples that hint at the cooler temperatures, providing a sophisticated touch to the autumn scenery. The introduction of navy blue brings a sense of calmness, reminiscent of the evening sky, while the darker elements such as black and brown ochre ground the composition, offering a sense of stability amidst the vibran

Autumn Mystique. Digital art created on canvas. September 28, 2024. Afrika Abney According to my research, “the colors purple and black are often linked to the essence of autumn, evoking a sense of mystery and richness that characterizes the season. As the leaves transition from vibrant greens to deeper hues, the incorporation of purple can symbolize the fading warmth of summer, while black adds a touch of elegance and depth. Together, these colors create a striking visual palette that reflects the changing landscape and the onset of cooler temperatures.”

Golden Crimson Skies. Digital art created on canvas. September 28, 2024. Afrika Abney “The convergence of clouds captures the very spirit of autumn, as they gather in the sky, creating a tapestry of soft hues and shifting shapes. This seasonal transformation is marked by the interplay of light and shadow, where the clouds reflect the rich colors of crimson and gold-ochre of fall foliage below. The atmosphere becomes imbued with a sense of change, as the air cools and the days grow shorter, inviting a contemplative mood that resonates with the essence of the season.”

Oak Tree Transfiguration. Digital art created on canvas. September 28, 2024. Afrika Abney “The oak trees are undergoing a stunning transformation as their leaves shift from a deep hunter green to vibrant shades of red, orange, yellow, and gold-ochre. This seasonal change creates a breathtaking tapestry of colors that signals the arrival of autumn. As the leaves begin to fall, they blanket the ground, providing a rich carpet for the wildlife that thrives in this environment. Acorns are cascading from the branches, providing a vital food source for the squirrels that scurry about, gathering their winter provisions. The ground beneath the trees is damp and fertile, enriched by the recent rains that have soaked the soil. This moisture not only nourishes the roots of the trees but also supports the diverse ecosystem that flourishes in this wooded area. Above, the sky is filled with clouds, hinting at the changing weather patterns that accompany the fall season. These clouds create a dramati