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 books that "show us where to find the real America." A graduate of the University of the District of Columbia, Nicholson was a reporter in San Francisco; Milwaukee; and Dayton, Ohio, before coming home to work as an editor and book reviewer for the Washington Post Book World. He is writing a second family history that begins with his grandparents' courtship in South Carolina and continues with their move to Washington, D.C., during the Great Migration.

TERI ELLEN CROSS DAVIS is the author of a more perfect Union, awarded the 2019 Journal/Charles B. Wheeler of the Poetry Society of America’s Robert H. Winner Memorial Award and a Maryland State Arts Council award. Her work has appeared in print, online, and in many journals and anthologies including Harvard Review, [PANK], Poetry Ireland Review, and Kenyon Review. She is the O.B. Hardison Poetry Series curator and Poetry Programs manager for the Folger Shakespeare Library in Washington DC.

AMUCHE The Poet (Amuchechukwu Nwafor) is an active local writer, performance artist, host, event curator, educator, teaching artist and figure model in the Washington, D.C metropolitan area. She is a first-generation born Black American whose poetry touches on the diaspora, sexual advocacy, mental health, and the female experience. Amuche considers her poems to be still life paintings of intimate experiences, emotions and observations. Her debut collection of poetry, Saltwater Roots, was published October 2024 in collaboration with the DC Poet Project and Day Eight Publishing. Through her writing she aspires to heal, grow and inspire people from all different walks of life.

MidnightRose: A Reading Series of Poetry and Prose is supported by Kerry S. Pearson LLC, the Norton and Rosalind Luger Charitable Trust (Ellen Pechman, Founder/Trustee) and Friends of Esther Productions Inc.

March is Women's History Month -- Featured book

March is Women's History Month and I have had the opportunity to have one of my abstract paintings featured on a book cover. The book is entitled: Kaleidoscope: Women of Color Reflecting on Life. Summer Blossoms. Acrylic on Canvas. 14 * 18. Afrika Abney Summer Blossoms, abstract finger painting created on canvas using colors that represent the Summer. For more information about the book, contact Esther Productions, Inc at estherproductionsinc@gmail.com . https://www.estherproductionsinc.com/product-page/kaleidoscope-women-of-color-reflecting-on-life

Abstract Insights

Abstract Insights. Digital art created on canvas. August 22, 2024. Afrika Abney “Abstract art often transcends traditional representation, allowing for a more visceral experience that resonates with viewers on a personal level. The use of color, form, and texture in abstract works can evoke a wide range of emotions, from joy and serenity to confusion and melancholy, inviting the audience to engage with the piece in a deeply subjective manner. The communal aspect of abstract art highlights its power not only as a form of personal expression but also as a catalyst for emotional dialogue, bridging gaps between diverse perspectives and fostering empathy.” Abstract Insights Consulting: https://abneyartist.blogspot.com/2024/08/abstract-insights-consulting.html

Registration Closed for African Americans and Children's Literature: A Symposium and Exhibition (AACL)

The registration for African Americans and Children's Literature: A Symposium and Exhibition (AACL) held on March 2nd has been closed as of Feb 23, 2024. This event is curated by award-winning author and public scholar jonetta rose barras in partnership with humanities scholar Bernard Demczuk Ph.D. ,The Black Student Fund, The Institute for African American Writing, Teaching for Change, Social Justice Books, Buck Wild Media, and Lesa Warrick. Major funding has been provided by HumanitiesDC with additional support from Kerry S. Pearson LLC, and BusBoys and Poets. estherproductionsinc.com/aachildrensliterature

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.”

Canvas Consultant

Canvas Consultant. Digital art created on canvas. August 22, 2024. Afrika Abney In my digital artwork, I chose to illustrate the various facets of my profession as an art consultant through the vibrant hues of yellow, orange, and purple. Since 1992, I have dedicated my career to both visual art and art consultancy, allowing me to cultivate a deep understanding of the art world and its dynamics. This extensive experience has equipped me with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of art creation and curation, ensuring that I can effectively communicate the essence of my role through my artistic expressions. As an art consultant, my expertise lies in crafting distinctive abstract collages, paintings, and digital pieces that stand out in the contemporary art scene. I prioritize the development of original works that not only captivate potential buyers but also resonate with those who recognize the importance of supporting professional artists. By curating a varied portfolio of...

Echoes of Expression

Echoes of Expression. Digital art created on canvas. August 22, 2024. Afrika Abney I believe that art serves as a powerful form of communication, transmitting ideas, emotions, and perspectives that resonate with individuals in unique ways. "Echoes of Expression," is a stunning abstract digital painting that explores the depths of indigo, purple, and lavender hues to evoke a sense of introspection and contemplation. My mission as an artist is to provoke thought, inspire creativity, and stimulate emotions through my work. By pushing the boundaries of traditional art forms and embracing digital mediums, I strive to challenge perceptions and spark meaningful conversations about society and the human experience. “Art indeed is a means of communication, as it passes ideas, values, feelings, concepts, which might be received differently by each observer but still vehiculate ideas concerning society and human condition.”

Multicultural Essence

Multicultural Essence. Digital art created on canvas. August 22, 2024. Afrika Abney Between 14 and 16, I attended a high school characterized by its multicultural environment, which provided me with the opportunity to engage with a wide array of cultural backgrounds. This experience marked a significant shift in my educational journey, as I had previously been enrolled in a private Afrocentric institution from 1978 to 1991. The contrast between these two educational settings was profound, as the multicultural high school introduced me to perspectives and traditions that were vastly different from those I had encountered in my earlier schooling. In my abstract digital artwork,Multicultural Essence, I incorporate a palette that includes white, black, brown ochre, and raw umber. These colors are not merely aesthetic choices; they serve to convey deeper meanings and emotions within the piece. The interplay of these hues allows for a rich exploration of themes such as identity, heritage, ...

Bold Contrast

Bold Contrast. Digital art created on canvas. October 2, 2024. Afrika Abney I believe that every stroke created using my digital brush and digital palette onto my digital canvas has the power to evoke emotion, spark conversation, and inspire change. My mission is to use my extensive visual art background to connect with others on a deep, emotional level and to share my unique perspective with the world. With expertise in various techniques, materials, and media, including acrylic paint, I bring a unique perspective to every project. My strong understanding of the properties of acrylics allows me to create intricate layers and complete projects rapidly, while still maintaining a high level of quality. My skill set includes working with acrylic and oil paint, oil pastels, crayons, charcoal, colored pencils, canvas, and paper. I have experience in creating abstract digital paintings, abstract paintings, collages, illustrations, graphic design, greeting cards, and photography. Selected Exp...

Creative Catalyst

Creative Catalyst. Digital art created on canvas. August 22, 2024. Afrika Abney As a firm believer in the transformative power of art, I am passionate about integrating vibrant colors and artistic expression into every facet of my professional life. The fusion of red, blue, and yellow not only adds visual appeal but serves as a driving force for creativity “The presence of art in my professional environment serves as a “powerful catalyst for fostering human connections, encouraging the exchange of innovative ideas, diverse thoughts, and engaging conversations.”

Digital art created in 2021

In 2021, I created numerous digital art pieces using computerized application. Some of them were entitled: Abstractions, Digital Pandemic and Landscape Series. Abstraction series consists of over 15 digital art pieces created in 2021. "Abstraction is the process of generalizing complex events in the real world to the concepts that underly them, tucking away the complexities of the situation." Digital pandemic consists of over 5 digital art pieces created in 2021. Landscape series consists of over 4 digital art pieces created in 2021.

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

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