Kuumba Suras/The Figures of Africa

When I was working at the Phillips Collection, I exhibited Kuumba Suras/The Figures of Africa in 2000.

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

GALLERY ASSISTANT. Phillips Collection. 2000. Responsible for monitoring and keeping artwork safe during gallery hours.

I participated in the James McLaugin Memorial Staff Show which took place at the Phillips Collection in 2000. This was an interesting opportunity for me because I not only participated in the art exhibit, but was also a staff member at the Phillips in 2000.

"For more than 25 years, The Phillips Collection has held a staff show to feature the works of artists employed at the museum. In 1984, the staff show was endowed by the family of James McLaughlin, an accomplished still-life painter who worked at the museum for 50 years. In 1932, McLaughlin began his association with Duncan Phillips as a student at the Phillips Gallery Art School. Until his death in 1982, McLaughlin played an active role in the museum’s activities as a gallery preparator and curator who hired art students as museum guards."

"The Phillips Collection is an art museum founded by Duncan Phillips and Marjorie Acker Phillips in 1921 as the Phillips Memorial Gallery located in the Dupont Circle neighborhood of Washington, D.C. Phillips was the grandson of James H. Laughlin, a banker and co-founder of the Jones and Laughlin Steel Company."

MidnightRose: A Reading Series of Poetry & Prose

“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 of iden...

Nature's Brushstroke

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

Blogs for marketing and strategy purposes

" A blogger is someone who runs and controls a blog . He or she shares his or her opinion and knowledge on different topics for a target audience. Many bloggers feel strongly about an issue or topic, and they are motivated to write about it to bring attention to a need. This might be a social issue or cause, a problem that needs to be fixed, a belief or value that they hold strongly, or just a desire to help people. Blogging enables you to reach the billions of people that use the Internet . Blogging can help you promote yourself or your business. Blogging works as a method for attracting an audience because it provides something of value to them before asking for anything in return. Blogs are often used to promote a business or company, though some blogs have become business in and of themselves." I created this blog to inform viewers about various topics that is connected to my work and services that I offer and provide as a consultant. This is not a per...

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

Golden Orb of Inspiration

Golden Orb of Inspiration. Digital art created on canvas. August 15, 2024. Afrika Abney Last night, as I gazed up at the sky, the moon captured my attention with its luminous glow. It was a sight that stirred my imagination and inspired me to create. I decided to channel that inspiration into my digital abstract painting, where I chose to incorporate various shades of yellow. The warmth of the color seemed to echo the moon's gentle radiance, allowing me to express the beauty I felt in that moment.

The exploration of human experiences within the context of abstract art

Quote found on the Internet “The exploration of human experiences within the context of abstract art reveals a profound interplay between emotion and perception. Abstract art, characterized by its departure from representational forms, invites viewers to engage with their own feelings and interpretations. This genre transcends traditional boundaries, allowing individuals to connect with the artwork on a personal level, often evoking a range of responses that are deeply rooted in their own life experiences. The absence of recognizable subjects encourages a more introspective approach, prompting viewers to reflect on their emotions and thoughts as they navigate the vibrant colors, shapes, and textures presented before them.”

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.

Abstract brushstrokes of nature

Abstract brushstrokes of nature. Digital art created on canvas. September 29, 2024. Afrika Abney

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.”

Cross Bridges

I have crossed over many bridges. I have seen many bridges. I have been under many bridges and at the end of each bridge, there is hope and light. Cross Bridges. Digital art created on canvas. Afrika Abney

Ms. Afrika Abney - Consultant Branding Blog

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