Skip to main content

Nature’s Vibrant Tapestry

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.”

Popular posts from this blog

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...

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...

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...

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...

MEMBERSHIP ANNOUNCEMENT: KALEIDOSCOPE WOMEN'S WRITING COLLECTIVE

  MEMBERSHIP ANNOUNCEMENT: KALEIDOSCOPE WOMEN'S WRITING COLLECTIVE Mar 04, 10:00 AM – 11:15 AM VIRTUAL EVENT KALEIDOSCOPE WOMEN’S WRITING COLLECTIVE is a monthly writing club for women 18 and older. This is a multi-generational, multi-ethnic, multi-racial group of women who  share their in-progress writings. Occasionally, the convenor, jonetta rose barras, or a guest author provides a writing prompt to instigate new creations. The group just published its first collection of poetry. More is expected as it grows.   It’s all free and virtual! REGISTER NOW! for more information:  estherproductions inc@gmail.com www.estherproductionsinc.com/ events-1/membership- announcement-kaleidoscope- womens-writing-collective- 2023-03-04-10-00  

Autumn Gray

  “In the context of autumn, medium gray serves as a reminder of the season's transitional beauty. It embodies the soft, overcast skies that frequently grace this time of year, as well as the gentle fading of daylight. This color can be seen in the landscape, where it complements the rich, earthy tones of fallen leaves and the bare branches of trees, creating a harmonious palette that reflects the natural world’s shift towards winter.”

Radiant Self

Radiant Self. Digital art created on canvas. August 13, 2024. Afrika Abney The inception of Radiant Self was driven by the concept of personal growth and self-enhancement. This piece is an abstract digital painting that embodies the essence of transformation and introspection. In crafting this artwork, I chose a palette dominated by violet hues, which resonate deeply with the overarching theme of the piece, symbolizing spirituality, creativity, and the quest for deeper understanding. “Pursuit of self-enhancement is a lifelong commitment that can lead to profound changes in one's perspective and lifestyle. It encourages individuals to cultivate positive habits, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to their communities. As they evolve, they may find themselves more equipped to handle life's challenges with grace and confidence. This ongoing journey not only enriches their own lives but also inspires those around them, creating a ripple effect of growth and positivity i...

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...

Corcoran Gallery of the Art, Washington, DC..

Ms. Afrika Abney attended Corcoran from 1993-1997. She graduated in 1997. Years later, Ms. Abney donated the charcoal drawing shown in the above photo. Additionally, she gave away the clothing articles and jewelry shown in the photo above.   From 1993 - 1997, I attended the Corcoran School of the Art. While, I was a college student, I had the opportunity to exhibit some of my artwork. However, I also had several other unpleasant experiences and met Ms. Lois M. Jones before she passed.  "Only a block from the White House and just a short walk from the historic National Mall, the Corcoran Gallery of Art stands as a major center of American and European art. It is simultaneously one of America’s most distinguished museums and colleges of art and design. It is a place where the past, present, and future of the visual arts come to life. The museum’s extensive collection of American and European masterworks present the best of the past; through its ongoing exhibitions of contemporar...

The 1990s

  Why are you talking about the 1990s? These are some old photos of me. Please note that I have given away these items depicted in the photos. "What were the best known art movements in the 1990s? Culture jamming was a well known movement of the 1990s as was  graffiti art . Transgressive art, or art that used shocking images as social critique was also popular." Despite to what the popular art was when I was a student, I continued to create abstract art.