Determined Mindset. Digital art created on canvas. September 20, 2024. Afrika Abney
“The Determined Mindset merges introspection and determination in abstract painting, allowing exploration of emotions and thoughts. It fuels experimentation with techniques, colors, and textures, leading to visually striking and meaningful artwork. Maintaining a steadfast commitment drives creativity and navigation through uncertainty.
Introspection and determination create a dynamic interplay that enriches the field of abstract painting. It allows me to delve deep into their emotions, thoughts, and experiences, translating these internal landscapes into visual forms that may not adhere to traditional representation. It also allows me to reflect on my inner world, while maintaining a steadfast commitment to my craft results in works that are not only visually striking but also deeply meaningful.
Determination plays a pivotal role in abstract painting, as it permits me to remain committed to my vision and drives me to experiment with various techniques, colors, and textures, pushing the boundaries of my creativity and navigating through moments of uncertainty.”
SELECTED PROFESSIONAL VISUAL ARTIST AND ART CONSULTANT EXPERIENCES
Professional Visual Artist and Art Consultant. 1981 - Present.
Guide clients in art acquisition, enhancing collections with expertise in abstract art.
Plan and present visual arts classes for diverse student backgrounds and abilities.
Curate art exhibitions and manage gallery operations, ensuring high-quality presentations.
Execute social media marketing and graphic design projects to promote art events and exhibitions.
Secure grant proposals to fund various arts events and workshops, driving community engagement.
Partner with galleries and artists to curate exhibitions, fostering community engagement and promoting emerging talent in the visual arts space.
ARTS SPECIALIST. Edlavitch Jewish Community Center of Washington, DC, Washington, D.C. June 20, 2018 - July 25, 2018.
Designed and taught visual arts classes for diverse student groups, fostering a safe and positive learning environment.
Prepared and distributed weekly progress reports to Program Manager, ensuring clear communication and accountability.
Developed tailored lesson plans to accommodate varying skill levels, enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes.
SUBSTITUTE TEACHER. DC International School, Washington, D.C. 2016 - 2017. Managed classrooms, ensuring active learning and adherence to lesson plans.
Adapted quickly to diverse environments, maintaining student engagement.
Subbed for Spanish Art Teacher, ensuring continuity of learning objectives.
Reinforced learning objectives, promoting a productive classroom atmosphere.
SUMMER ACADEMY CAMP PART- TIME ELECTIVE ART TEACHER. Higher Achievement, Washington, DC - Metro. July 1, 2013 - August 1, 2013 (Center City PCS - Capitol Hill Campus); and 2003-2004 (Bruce Monroe Elementary School).
Developed and executed visual arts curriculum for diverse 5th-8th graders, enhancing artistic skills.
Students mastered abstract painting, showing measurable improvement in technique and creativity.
Tailored lessons to accommodate varying skill levels, fostering an inclusive learning environment.
Implemented hands-on projects that significantly boosted student engagement and participation.
SUBSTITUTE TEACHER. Mundo Verde Public Charter Schools, Washington, DC. December 2013 - 2014.
Managed and co-managed classrooms, delivering prepared lesson plans and fostering active learning.
Ensured a positive classroom environment, reinforcing learning objectives effectively.
Collaborated with Ms. Gloria Quirarte, substituting seamlessly to maintain educational continuity.
Adapted to diverse student needs, enhancing engagement and understanding.
Performed additional duties, contributing to the overall success of the educational program.
AFFILIATED TEACHING ARTIST. Young Playwrights' Theatre (YPT), Washington, DC. October 2012 - May 2013.
Developed and taught visual arts classes for diverse first and second graders, integrating literacy skills.
Created a safe and structured learning environment, fostering positive student interactions.
Established classroom rules and managed behavior, ensuring a conducive educational setting.
Prepared and submitted weekly progress reports to the Program Manager, enhancing program oversight.
GALLERY ASSISTANT. Phillips Collection, Washington, DC. 2000.
Monitored and secured artworks during gallery hours, ensuring safety and preservation.
Implemented safety protocols, reducing incidents of damage or theft.
Collaborated with the team to maintain optimal gallery conditions.
Utilized keen attention to detail to identify and address potential risks.
Contributed to a secure and welcoming environment for visitors.
ART CURATOR. New Harlem Gallery, New York City. 1992 - 1993. Installed art for some of the exhibitions held at the New Harlem Gallery.
Curated and installed diverse exhibitions, significantly enhancing visitor engagement.
Organized art installations, promoting new artists and increasing gallery attendance.
Planned exhibitions with attention to detail, creating compelling narratives.
Collaborated with artists to select and arrange artworks, ensuring cohesive displays.
“The Determined Mindset merges introspection and determination in abstract painting, allowing exploration of emotions and thoughts. It fuels experimentation with techniques, colors, and textures, leading to visually striking and meaningful artwork. Maintaining a steadfast commitment drives creativity and navigation through uncertainty.
Introspection and determination create a dynamic interplay that enriches the field of abstract painting. It allows me to delve deep into their emotions, thoughts, and experiences, translating these internal landscapes into visual forms that may not adhere to traditional representation. It also allows me to reflect on my inner world, while maintaining a steadfast commitment to my craft results in works that are not only visually striking but also deeply meaningful.
Determination plays a pivotal role in abstract painting, as it permits me to remain committed to my vision and drives me to experiment with various techniques, colors, and textures, pushing the boundaries of my creativity and navigating through moments of uncertainty.”
SELECTED PROFESSIONAL VISUAL ARTIST AND ART CONSULTANT EXPERIENCES
Professional Visual Artist and Art Consultant. 1981 - Present.
Guide clients in art acquisition, enhancing collections with expertise in abstract art.
Plan and present visual arts classes for diverse student backgrounds and abilities.
Curate art exhibitions and manage gallery operations, ensuring high-quality presentations.
Execute social media marketing and graphic design projects to promote art events and exhibitions.
Secure grant proposals to fund various arts events and workshops, driving community engagement.
Partner with galleries and artists to curate exhibitions, fostering community engagement and promoting emerging talent in the visual arts space.
ARTS SPECIALIST. Edlavitch Jewish Community Center of Washington, DC, Washington, D.C. June 20, 2018 - July 25, 2018.
Designed and taught visual arts classes for diverse student groups, fostering a safe and positive learning environment.
Prepared and distributed weekly progress reports to Program Manager, ensuring clear communication and accountability.
Developed tailored lesson plans to accommodate varying skill levels, enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes.
SUBSTITUTE TEACHER. DC International School, Washington, D.C. 2016 - 2017. Managed classrooms, ensuring active learning and adherence to lesson plans.
Adapted quickly to diverse environments, maintaining student engagement.
Subbed for Spanish Art Teacher, ensuring continuity of learning objectives.
Reinforced learning objectives, promoting a productive classroom atmosphere.
SUMMER ACADEMY CAMP PART- TIME ELECTIVE ART TEACHER. Higher Achievement, Washington, DC - Metro. July 1, 2013 - August 1, 2013 (Center City PCS - Capitol Hill Campus); and 2003-2004 (Bruce Monroe Elementary School).
Developed and executed visual arts curriculum for diverse 5th-8th graders, enhancing artistic skills.
Students mastered abstract painting, showing measurable improvement in technique and creativity.
Tailored lessons to accommodate varying skill levels, fostering an inclusive learning environment.
Implemented hands-on projects that significantly boosted student engagement and participation.
SUBSTITUTE TEACHER. Mundo Verde Public Charter Schools, Washington, DC. December 2013 - 2014.
Managed and co-managed classrooms, delivering prepared lesson plans and fostering active learning.
Ensured a positive classroom environment, reinforcing learning objectives effectively.
Collaborated with Ms. Gloria Quirarte, substituting seamlessly to maintain educational continuity.
Adapted to diverse student needs, enhancing engagement and understanding.
Performed additional duties, contributing to the overall success of the educational program.
AFFILIATED TEACHING ARTIST. Young Playwrights' Theatre (YPT), Washington, DC. October 2012 - May 2013.
Developed and taught visual arts classes for diverse first and second graders, integrating literacy skills.
Created a safe and structured learning environment, fostering positive student interactions.
Established classroom rules and managed behavior, ensuring a conducive educational setting.
Prepared and submitted weekly progress reports to the Program Manager, enhancing program oversight.
GALLERY ASSISTANT. Phillips Collection, Washington, DC. 2000.
Monitored and secured artworks during gallery hours, ensuring safety and preservation.
Implemented safety protocols, reducing incidents of damage or theft.
Collaborated with the team to maintain optimal gallery conditions.
Utilized keen attention to detail to identify and address potential risks.
Contributed to a secure and welcoming environment for visitors.
ART CURATOR. New Harlem Gallery, New York City. 1992 - 1993. Installed art for some of the exhibitions held at the New Harlem Gallery.
Curated and installed diverse exhibitions, significantly enhancing visitor engagement.
Organized art installations, promoting new artists and increasing gallery attendance.
Planned exhibitions with attention to detail, creating compelling narratives.
Collaborated with artists to select and arrange artworks, ensuring cohesive displays.