Panel Discussion: ESTRANGEMENT & RECONCILIATION

ESTHER PRODUCTIONS INC.

presents

ESTRANGEMENT & RECONCILIATION: The Wound and The Balm

a conversation during

THE NATIONAL RECONCILIATION WEEK

For Self & Family

June 5, 2023

12:30-1:30 pm

A Virtual Event

The challenges of life can sometimes cause devastating traumas that can lead to personal or familial estrangement. What does estrangement look like? When we separate, losing our way, how do we find the path back to wholeness? How do we reconcile?

Join us for the answers to those and other questions during a provocative, informative and entertaining conversation during a week of live and previously recorded activities.

ESTRANGEMENT & RECONCILIATION features psychotherapist Dr. Nic Hardy, Tasha Smith, LCPC-S, LPC, CCTP-II, CTMH, CMC-1, NCC and Myla Johnson, Trinity University Washington senior whose award-winning research project focuses the impact of father absence and African American boys.

IT'S FREE.

REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED at https://www.estherproductionsinc.com/events-1/the-national-reconciliation-week-for-self-family-june-5-june-9-2023-2023-06-05-12-30

This and other programs by Esther Productions Inc. are made possible through generous donations from Kerry S. Pearson LLC, Fort Myer Construction Corporation Charitable Foundation, Emmanuel Bailey, Pepco, an Exelon Corporation and Esther's Friends.

Dr. Nic Hardy (June 7) is a psychotherapist in Houston, Texas who operates a popular counseling service. This will be his first appearance at The National Reconciliation Week; he is expected to examine family estrangement with the goal of ending it. In his practice, Dr. Hardy helps adult, individuals and couples improve their relationships and grow as individuals. His authenticity and relatability have allowed him to help people from all walks of life. He has been featured in national publications such as HuffPost, Cosmopolitan, NBC, PsychCentral, AskMen, Fatherly, and many others. Dr. Hardy is married and has a beautiful daughter named Brooklyn.

Tasha Smith, LCPC-S, LPC, CCTP-II, CTMH, CMC-1, NCC established Rejuvenating Hearts & Minds in 2016, a mental health and wellness organization that focuses on strengthening the family unit; she is its CEO. It aims to transform the lives of ethnic families and their approach to financial decision-making. After working 18 years in corporate America, Mrs. Smith recognized her mission was to combat societal norms and systemic challenges that contribute to mental illness and maintain financial inequality in marginalized communities. Mrs. Smith aims to bridge the gap by improving emotional d financial literacy through education, practical skills, application procedures, and support. In her work, Mrs. Smith helps individuals understand the emotional and psychological relationship they have with money. Mrs. Smith's goal is to help create generational wealth that extends beyond finances and assets.

Myla Johnson is a recent graduate from Trinity Washington University with a Bachelor of the Arts in Psychology. During her college career, she was inducted into the International Honor Society in Psychology and Phi Beta Kappa. Myla has also interned at the Child Guidance Clinic in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. Ms. Johnson is a recipient of the Access Path to Psychology and Law Experience (APPLE) Program Award by the American Psychology-Law Society's (AP-LS) Broadening Representation, Inclusion, Diversity, and Global Equity (BRIDGE) Committee for her research on " Predicting Emotional and Behavior Functioning of African American Boys: The Impact of Absentee Father's from the Home." Ms. Johnson is currently preparing to apply for Clinical-Forensic Psychology doctoral programs for 2024.

Nature’s Radiant Palette

Nature’s Radiant Palette. Digital art created on canvas. October 3, 2024. Afrika Abney Dark green symbolizes tranquility, while yellow symbolizes optimism. The depth and fluidity between the contrasting colors and brushstrokes adds volume to Nature’s Radiant Palette.

Vivid Artistry

Vivid Artistry. Digital art created on canvas. October 3, 2024. Afrika Abney Today is October 3, 2024 and I am focusing on creating my digital art and branding. Whatever conversations that you are having, I have not been engaged in them. I am busy working using the colors, blue, yellow and dark green representing optimism, tranquility and creativity which are portrayed in Vivid Artistry.

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...

The intention and significance of my digital abstract paintings

“The intention and significance of my digital abstract paintings are not rooted in themes of sexual relationships. Instead, they serve as a medium for my self-expression, allowing me to convey the stories and emotions that inspire each piece. Through these artworks, I aim to communicate my personal and professional experiences and the narratives that shape my creative vision.”

Gentle Rain

Gentle Rain. Digital art created on canvas. September 28, 2024. Afrika Abney The season of Autumn 2024 commenced just six days ago, and on this rainy Saturday morning, I woke up from my restful sleep a couple of hours ago. The sound of raindrops tapping against the window provided a soothing backdrop as I prepared to embrace the day ahead. This weekend, I have dedicated my time to focusing on my branding and delving into the creation of my digital artwork, both of which are essential components of my creative journey. Have a creative weekend.

Autumnal Expressions

Autumnal Expressions. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney “Autumnal Expressions encapsulate the essence of the fall season, a time when nature undergoes a remarkable transformation. As the days grow shorter and temperatures begin to drop, the landscape is painted in dark brown, deep dark brown, deep red and deep magenta.This seasonal shift not only affects the environment but also evokes a range of emotions and reflections. The beauty of autumnal expressions lies not only in the visual splendor of the season but also in the deeper meanings and emotions it inspires in creativity and productivity.”

BrightBlend Techniques

BrightBlend Techniques. Digital art created on canvas. October 2, 2024. Afrika Abney BrightBlend Techniques is a digital abstract painting composed of colors and various brush techniques.Some colors include orange, red, and blue. All three of the colors represent creativity. According to my research, “the use of various brush techniques creates a rich tapestry of texture within the artwork. The dynamic relationship between light and shadow, skillfully rendered through these different strokes, infuses the piece with vitality and a sense of motion. This deliberate layering invites viewers to delve deeper into the work, fostering a greater appreciation for the intricacies and purpose that lie behind each individual brushstroke.”

Artful Humanity

Quote found on the Internet According to my research, “National Arts and Humanities Month (NAHM) originated in 1985 as a celebration known as National Arts Week. This initiative was designed to promote the importance of the arts and humanities in American culture, encouraging communities to engage with and appreciate various forms of artistic expression. The establishment of this month-long observance has since evolved into a significant annual event that highlights the contributions of artists, writers, and cultural organizations across the nation. In the same year, 1985, a notable development in the realm of technology occurred with the release of a paint application. Together, these developments reflect the dynamic relationship between the arts and the tools that facilitate their creation and dissemination.” In 1985, I was 9 years old and a student at NationHouse.

Narrative Layers

Narrative Layers. Digital art created on canvas. October 2, 2024. Afrika Abney I created Narrative Layers, a digital abstract painting, using layered brushstrokes and vibrant colors with the focal color - red. Red represents determination, courage, resilience, and creativity. According to my research, “layered brushstrokes serve as a powerful representation of the different phases of artistic expression and emotional depth. Each stroke adds a unique texture and dimension, reflecting my evolving thoughts and feelings throughout the creative process. This technique not only enhances the visual appeal of the piece but also invites viewers to engage with the underlying story that unfolds within the layers. Ultimately, the culmination of these layered brushstrokes results in a finished piece that resonates with a profound narrative.”

Respect and courtesy

Respect and courtesy. Digital art created on canvas. August 2, 2024. Afrika Abney The colors associated with respect and courtesy include blue, red and white. The interplay of colors creates a dynamic composition, where the bold red evokes passion and energy, the serene blue instills a sense of calm and trust, and the pure white symbolizes clarity and peace. Together, these colors form a cohesive narrative that resonates with the viewer, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the themes of respect and courtesy. “Respect and courtesy in the workplace are important for a healthy work environment and can lead to improved productivity and employee satisfaction. They involve treating others with kindness, fairness, and tact.”

Ms. Afrika Abney - Consultant Branding Blog

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