My African Centered Education Experiences

NationHouse Anniversary

1980s

I gave away this dance outfit many years ago.

NationHouse

1982

NationHouse

1989

I gave away this outfit many years ago.

NationHouse Anniversary

1980s

I gave away this outfit many years ago.

My African Centered Education experiences were traumatizing and somewhat uplifting for me. I was exposed to a different set of men, standards and principles that completely focused on my culture and heritage as a black female living in America. I was enrolled into an African centered school when I was 2 years old and that was NationHouse. Some of my instructors include Mama Afia, Mama Nkechi, Mama Esi and Baba Michael.

At NationHouse, I had the opportunity to learn about my roots, culture and heritage. I participated in numerous Kwanzaa programs and events. When I left NationHouse in 1991, I continued to recognize and celebrate my roots, culture and heritage. Many years later, I learned that NationHouse got demolished and shut down. Recently, I received information about Baba Agyei's transition on December 4, 2019. I believe that having a safe, nurturing, and positive environment aids in the development of students and their academic success. Additionally, I researched about Kwanzaa and found out that it was a rapist holiday.

Nature's Prelude

Nature's Prelude. Digital art created on canvas. September 23, 2024. Afrika Abney “Nature's Prelude embodies the serene condition of the sky that heralds the arrival of rain, symbolizing a product that honors the exquisite rhythms of the natural world. This tranquil moment in the atmosphere serves as a precursor to the impending rainfall, which is poised to rejuvenate the landscape. The calmness that envelops the sky acts as a gentle reminder of the continuous cycles inherent in weather patterns.”

Djimo Kouyate

Commissioned Photography for Baba Djimo Kouyate Smithsonian Folklife Festival, 1997, Washington, DC Photograph by Ms. Afrika Abney "Djimo Kouyaté (August 16, 1946 - August 1, 2004). Djimo Kouyate was from the Malinké tribe, a sub-group of the Mandingo people. Born in Tambacounda, Senegal, he was from a distinguished family of griots who trace their ancestry back to the thirteenth century. A master kora player and a fine singer and dancer, Djimo also played a variety of other instruments including balafon (wooden xylophone), drums, and other string instruments. He worked with the Senegalese National Ballet as a singer and dancer since 1960, and was a founding member of the National Instrumental Ensemble of Senegal."

Whispers of Color

I enjoy creating my art using vibrant hues of yellow-orange, purple, and magenta coupled with black and navy blue. “The hue of yellow-orange is frequently associated with qualities such as creativity, enthusiasm, and an overarching sense of optimism. This lively color radiates a spirited energy that can stimulate innovative thought and foster a positive perspective on life. The warm undertones of this vibrant shade evoke sensations of joy and vitality, creating a distinctive fusion that promotes both artistic expression and an uplifting attitude. The interplay of yellow's brightness with the warmth of orange results in a unique palette that encourages individuals to embrace their creative instincts. Purple is a color that embodies creativity, merging the serene stability of blue with the dynamic energy of red. This intriguing combination fosters a sense of imagination and originality, encouraging individuals to venture into uncharted territories of thought. The rich and vi...

Insightful Discussions

Quote found on the Internet “Eleanor Roosevelt once articulated a profound observation regarding the nature of intellectual discourse. She suggested that the most insightful individuals engage in conversations centered around ideas, exploring concepts that can inspire change and innovation. This perspective emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and the pursuit of knowledge, encouraging individuals to elevate their discussions beyond the mundane and to focus on the transformative power of ideas. In contrast, Roosevelt pointed out that those with a more conventional mindset tend to focus their discussions on events. This approach, while still valuable, often limits the scope of conversation to what is happening in the world around us, rather than delving into the underlying principles or philosophies that drive those events. By concentrating on occurrences, average minds may miss the opportunity to analyze the implications and lessons that can be drawn from them, the...

MIDNIGHTROSE: A Reading Series of Poetry and Prose features Mr. Kenneth Carroll, Ms. Elizabeth Bruce and Ms.Sasa Aakil

“MidnightRose serves as a vibrant platform that highlights the diverse voices of multigenerational and multicultural writers from the Washington Metropolitan Region and beyond. This initiative is brought to life by Esther Productions Inc., in collaboration with The Institute for African American Writing and The Black Student Fund. The series aims to celebrate the literary talents within the community, showcasing a variety of poetic and prose works that reflect the rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives that define the region. Attendees of MidnightRose can expect to engage with a dynamic array of award-winning poets and authors, each bringing their unique narratives and artistic expressions to the forefront. The event not only serves as a performance space but also as a gathering that fosters dialogue and connection among writers and audiences alike. By immersing oneself in the powerful words and stories shared during the series, participants are invited to explore themes o...

Perceptual Harmony

Perceptual Harmony. Digital art created on canvas. September 14, 2024. Afrika Abney

Profound Azure

Profound Azure. Digital art created on canvas. September 18, 2024. Afrika Abney “Profound Azure embodies a deep and vibrant blue hue that conjures feelings of depth and creativity. This particular shade is not merely a color; it represents a vast expanse that invites contemplation and sparks inspiration. The richness of this blue can evoke a sense of tranquility.” Profound Azure is inspired by Profound Blue Inspiration.

Awareness Revolution

Awareness Revolution. Digital art created on canvas. September 25, 2024. Afrika Abney “The significant societal transformations that have emerged in response to issues of racism and discrimination, particularly concerning the Black community. This awareness serves as a catalyst for discussions surrounding systemic inequalities and the historical context that has shaped the experiences of Black individuals in the nation’s capital. By fostering a deeper understanding of these societal changes, the movement aims to address the persistent challenges faced by marginalized groups and promote a more equitable society. In recent years, Washington, D.C., has witnessed a growing consciousness regarding the impact of racism and discrimination on the Black population. This heightened awareness has prompted various initiatives and movements aimed at dismantling systemic barriers and advocating for social justice. As communities come together to confront these issues, there is a collective effort to...

Professional Positivity

Professional Positivity. Digital art created on canvas. September 23, 2024. Afrika Abney “Humor that is intended to lighten the atmosphere during work can often miss the mark for me. Instead of providing a welcome distraction, such jokes can come across as disrespectful and inappropriate in a professional setting. I believe that humor should enhance the workplace experience, not detract from it or undermine the seriousness of my work. When jokes are presented in a way that seems to trivialize the work environment, they fail to resonate with me. I find that humor should foster camaraderie and positivity, but when it crosses the line into disrespect, it loses its appeal. It is essential to maintain a level of professionalism. Ultimately, I do not appreciate humor that is veiled as lightheartedness if it carries an undertone of disrespect.”

Nature's Brushstroke

Nature's Brushstroke. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney

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