Straightforward Interactions

I am not Christian. I was introduced to various religious practices when I was a student. I am not playing mind games and entertaining assumptions, gossip and rude jokes. To grab my attention, you must demonstrate respect, honest and trustworthy behavior. I am a straightforward, transparent and authentic human being who has had the opportunity to work at various settings from the 1980s - 2018.

It is not the past. I have not scheduled any virtual meetings, video chats, nor interviews.

Stop speaking to other people that do not know me at all.

I am not interested in dating women nor boys. I am not interested in dating married men and senior citizens. I am not a senior citizen.I am a single straight female over the age of 30 who only has interest and attraction to single straight male over the age of 30.

Stop trying to play matchmaker. Only I know what my tastes are. Stop having me spell things out.

The only telephone number that I have is 202-384-5925.

Contact - 202-384-5925

What phone calls? If you called me directly, I would have remembered. I have not hosted any events since 2016.

SELECTED ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Art featured on brochure and book cover.

Designed, directed, and coordinated successful educational and arts programs for adults and children.

Received grant proposals.

Managed several arts events and art workshops.

SELECTED SKILLS

Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Publisher, and Excel

Gallery operations

Curating art exhibitions

Social media marketing

Graphic designing

Flyer dissemination

Trained visual arts professional

PAST SELECTED ART EXHIBITIONS

• Virtual Art Exhibition and Poetry Reading. February 19, 2023

• The National Daughter Daddy Tour. National City Christian Church, Washington, D.C. 2004 - 2006

• Every Picture Tells A Story. Moca DC, Washington, D.C. January 6, 2006 – January 27, 2006

• "Visions." Ellingtons on 8th, Washington, D.C. May 31 - June 28, 2006.Curated by Prelli Anthony Williams. Reception, May 31, 2006 from 6-8pm and Closing Reception, June 28, 2006

• "The Power Within." El Tamarindo, Washington, D.C. July 1 - 31, 2006. Curated by D.Edward Dyer, President of Art N Deed, LLC.

• "Images of Life." Phish Tea Cafe, Washington, D.C. July 31, 2005 - September 2005

• Norton Kirby Advertising, Washington, D.C. 2005

• "Heritage Collections." Emma Mae Gallery, Washington, DC. 2005-2004

•"James McLaugin Memorial Staff Show." Phillips Collection, Washington, DC. 2000

•New Horizons Presents Tomorrow's World Art Center. "Celebrating Our Heritage Through The Arts." Atrium Gallery One, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC. 1999

•"Evolution of Historical Symbolisms." Corcoran Gallery of the Art, Hemicycle, Washington, DC. 1997

•"All Senior Summer Show." Corcoran School of the Art, White Walls Gallery, Washington, DC. 1997-1996

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.

PAST VISUAL ART WORKSHOPS

KUUMBA ARTS AND CRAFTS PROGRAM. D.C. Department of Recreation (Emery Recreation Center, Parkview Recreation Center, Hamilton Recreation Center and Upshur Recreation Center) from 1997 - 1998 and A - T Seban Mesut (1995- 1998). conducted a free fine arts workshop for children ages 7 — 10. Taught students ages 7 to 10 techniques of drawing, finger painting, sponge painting, abstract design, clay work, collage designing and monoprinting. Sponsored by Ms. Afrika Abney and funded by the D.C. Commission of the Arts, Arts Education Grant Program

KUUMBA EXPRESSIONS, WASHINGTON, DC. Culture Coffee on January 31,2015 and Potter's House on May 16,2016 and May 23, 2016. They were sponsored by Culture Coffee, Potter's House and Esther Productions, Inc Art Enablers. Designed to serve youth between the ages of 6 through 12, including those with developmental disabilities. Participants were provided instruction in painting, using traditional and non-traditional materials, with the intent of enhancing their own natural artistic talent while expanding their fundamental information about compositional studies, light and shadow, and technique. Further, the workshop augments participants’ overall education, particularly their communication skills. Additionally, participants were introduced to many renaissance artists. Some of them include Romare Bearden, Jacob Lawrence, Pablo Picasso, Jackson Polluck and Lois M. Jones.

COMMUNITY CAREER DAY VISUAL ART WORKSHOPS

2016. Eliot (invited by Ms. Ophelia Morgan).

1996. Calvin Coolidge High School (invited by Ms. Angela Cook)

Led visual art workshops
Engaged over 200 students in discussing the visual arts career
Collaborated with school principals to tailor workshops to student needs, enhancing learning outcomes.
Achieved measurable improvements in student engagement and cultural understanding.

PAST PROFESSIONAL VISUAL ARTIST AND ART CONSULTANT PROJECTS (PARTIAL LISTING)

Provided numerous services for Esther Productions, Inc, Anacostia Art Gallery and Boutique, and BZB International. The organizations hosted numerous events. Some of them include Annual BZB Gift and Art Show, PAINTSPIRATION: REFLECT AND PAINT!,PAINTSPIRATION: AN INTERACTIVE WORKSHOP,PAINTING YOUR FUTURE BRIGHT: A SIP AND PAINT FOR GIRLS ,Sip, Paint and Reflect , and Kaleidoscope: Women of Color Reflection on Life.

EDUCATION

Bell Multicultural High School - 1993

Corcoran School of the Arts - 1997

Creative Chronicles

Creative Chronicles. Digital art created on canvas. October 26, 2024. Afrika Abney At the time when digital art began in the 1980s, I was 4 - 13 and a student at NationHouse. I did not start creating digital art until 2009. With over a decade of experience in digital art, I have honed my skills in various techniques and styles. I specialize in creating captivating and visually stunning digital artworks that evoke emotion and tell a story. Upon waking up from my restful sleep and unaware of the discussions taking place, I began to implement my routine and examine my digital art. Creative Chronicles using vibrant colors and varied brush techniques. “Personal storytelling plays a crucial role in my artistic journey, particularly in conveying insights about my digital abstract paintings, abstract artworks, and collages. Recently, I have delved into the significance of color symbolism within my digital creations, which has led me to recognize that color serves as a vital c...

Cerulean Canvas

“The color blue in abstract paintings often embodies a range of qualities that evoke various emotional and psychological responses. It is frequently associated with tranquility and calmness, creating a serene atmosphere that invites viewers to reflect and contemplate. The use of blue can also suggest depth and infinity, reminiscent of vast skies and deep oceans, which can lead to a sense of exploration and introspection. Artists may employ different shades of blue to convey distinct moods, from the soft pastels that evoke a gentle, soothing feeling to the bold, vibrant hues that can energize and inspire. In the realm of abstract art, blue serves as a powerful tool for expression, allowing artists to communicate complex ideas and emotions without the constraints of representational forms. The versatility of blue enables it to interact harmoniously with other colors, enhancing the overall composition and creating dynamic contrasts. For instance, when paired with warm colors like or...

Warmth of Experience

“The intentional incorporation of orange-red in illustrating life experiences can significantly enrich the narrative journey, creating a vibrant canvas that accentuates both personal and professional achievements. This particular hue, with its energetic and warm qualities, invites contemplation and conversation, allowing for a more profound grasp of the various experiences that shape our lives. By using such a striking color, the storytelling becomes not just a recounting of events but an immersive exploration of emotions and insights. My own journey has been marked by a series of impactful experiences, including the persistent challenges posed by racism and discrimination, as well as the significant milestones of graduating from both high school and college. Each of these moments has contributed to my personal growth and understanding of the world around me. The struggles I faced with prejudice have not only shaped my identity but have also fueled my determination to succe...

Golden Milestones

“The color gold serves as a powerful reminder of the past, encapsulating the essence of cherished memories and significant life events.It's warm and radiant quality can evoke feelings of joy and accomplishment, often associated with milestones such as art exhibitions, professional experiences and past workshops.” PAST SELECTED ART EXHIBITIONS • Virtual Art Exhibition and Poetry Reading. February 19, 2023 • The National Daughter Daddy Tour. National City Christian Church, Washington, D.C. 2004 - 2006 • Every Picture Tells A Story. Moca DC, Washington, D.C. January 6, 2006 – January 27, 2006 • "Visions." Ellingtons on 8th, Washington, D.C. May 31 - June 28, 2006.Curated by Prelli Anthony Williams. Reception, May 31, 2006 from 6-8pm and Closing Reception, June 28, 2006 • "The Power Within." El Tamarindo, Washington, D.C. July 1 - 31, 2006. Curated by D.Edward Dyer, President of Art N Deed, LLC. • "Images of Life." Phish Tea Cafe, Washington, D.C. J...

Women Blossoming

Women Blossoming: A Traditional Tea & Celebration to Inspire and Empower is the event of the spring season that features fantastic speakers and creatives: Business and cultural leader Ana R. Harvey, a former senior executive in President Barack Obama's administration and current director of Dupont Underground, a dynamic cultural hub national and international in the nation's capital, will provide information and guidance to help women lean in--whether creating their own business or lifting and amplifying their voices. Jennifer Y. Okoson, reminds us that "our capacity to create is where we begin to live more fully, experience transformation, and embark on a journey of healing." In a mini-workshop she will help participants "explore Creativity as a Wellness Practice!" Come and enjoy a creative activity to enhance your personal self-care. Speaking of creativity, the members of the Kaleidoscope Women's Writing Collective ...

Nature's Narrative

Nature's Narrative. Digital art created on canvas. September 15, 2024. Afrika Abney “The autumn season unfolds in a spectacular display of colors, featuring deep oranges, fiery reds, and golden yellows that captivate the senses. This transformation is not simply a shift in the appearance of leaves; it represents a grand exhibition of nature's creativity, where each leaf embodies a unique narrative. As these leaves descend from their branches, they carry with them the essence of sunlit days, the warmth of summer, and the lively energy that once flourished in their canopy. Their descent forms a vibrant carpet of color on the ground, inviting us to appreciate the intricate beauty found in both decay and renewal. This natural cycle serves as a poignant reminder that change, while constant, can also be profoundly beautiful. In this season of change, every leaf becomes a symbol of the passage of time and the cyclical patterns inherent in the natural world. The landscape transforms i...

Luminous Falls

Luminous Falls. Digital art created on canvas. September 5, 2024. Afrika Abney “The rays of sunlight cascade down, filling my spirit with a radiant energy that encourages me to select a vibrant array of colors that reflect joy and liveliness. I am particularly captivated by shades such as yellow ochre, bright yellow, and gold ochre, each of which resonates with a profound sense of warmth and positivity. Yellow ochre, along with its brighter variations, conjures a vivid spectrum that mirrors the essence of sunlight itself. The lively and cheerful nature of yellow ochre captures the sun's radiant glow.This particular hue not only reflects the warmth but also embodies a spirit of hope and optimism. On the other hand, light ochre offers a more subdued and cooler interpretation of yellow, marked by its gentle presence and lower saturation. Unlike its more vibrant relatives, this shade provides a soft touch that fosters a tranquil ambiance. In contrast, golden ochre emerges with its ri...

The Masks That I wear

The Masks That I wear have represented who I am as an African American female and woman. I have worn many types of masks from dance customs to paper masks. Each of the masks that I have worn represent a different part of my character, background and personality. "All of us have ways in which we mask and cover our pain." - Iyanla Vanzant "Because the mask is your face, the face is a mask, so I'm thinking of the face as a mask because of the way I see faces is coming from an African vision of the mask which is the thing that we carry around with us, it is our presentation, it's our front, it's our face." - Faith Ringgold The Masks That I wear. Digital art created on canvas. Afrika Abney All of us have ways in which we mask and cover our pain. Share this Quote Iyanla Vanzant Read more at https://www.brainyquote.com/topi...

Vibrant Earth Tones

Vibrant Earth Tones. Digital art created on canvas. September 21, 2024. Afrika Abney “Nature itself showcases the exquisite blend of burnt umber and turquoise, acting as an unparalleled artist in its own right. The lush, dark browns of the forest floor, rich with organic matter, contrast beautifully with the bright, crystalline blues of tropical waters. This natural juxtaposition serves as a reminder of the intricate relationships that exist within ecosystems, where each color plays a vital role in the overall tapestry of life. Whether it’s the earthy tones of autumn leaves or the vibrant hues of coral reefs, these colors are omnipresent, illustrating the beauty of diversity in the natural world. In the creative sphere, the synergy of burnt umber and turquoise not only enhances visual appeal but also enriches the narrative quality of art. Artists harness this color combination to explore themes of duality, balance, and the emotional spectrum, allowing viewers to experience a range of f...

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...

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

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