“'Diverse' signifies variety, inclusivity, and a broad spectrum of experiences or skills. It indicates adaptability and an open-minded approach.”
Born and raised in Washington, DC, I have cultivated a diverse and impactful career across multiple disciplines, including art, consulting, dance, and literature. A graduate of Bell Multicultural High School and the Corcoran School of the Arts, I have received numerous grants from the D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities, celebrating my artistic contributions. My notable achievements include featuring my artwork in the "African Heritage" brochure in 1992 and securing an art commission for Baba Djimo in 1997. My abstract paintings, such as "Summer Blossoms," have garnered attention, with one piece being used as a book cover by Esther Productions, Inc. In addition to creating and selling my art, I have donated multiple pieces to various organizations and showcased my work in exhibitions, including the Virtual Art Exhibition and Poetry Reading in February 2023. My professional experience encompasses roles such as program administrator for Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers, art specialist at the Edlavitch Jewish Community Center, and dance instructor at various institutions. I have developed and implemented outreach programs, taught diverse groups of students, and created positive learning environments. My consulting work includes managing media campaigns for individuals and nonprofits, collaborating with organizations like the Malcolm X Dancers and Drummers and the African American Women's Resource Center. Through my multifaceted experiences, I have successfully engaged with a variety of communities, sharing my passion for creativity and making meaningful contributions to the cultural landscape of Washington, DC, and beyond.
ART SOLD:
In 2022, Esther Productions, Inc purchased Summer Blossoms (an abstract painting) to use for the book cover of Kaleidoscope.
On June 23, 2023, Esther Productions, Inc purchased one of Ms. Afrika Abney's abstract paintings that she created on March 4, 2023.
On December 3, 2023, Esther Productions, Inc purchased two abstract paintings created by Ms. Afrika Abney.
ART DONATIONS:
On August 13, 2022, Ms. Afrika Abney donated several abstract collages and paintings to Esther Productions, Inc.
SELECTED ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Art featured on brochure and book cover
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 EXPERIENCES
PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION. Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers and Esther Productions, Inc, Washington, D.C.. Responsible for hosting, setting up tables, clean up, interior decorating, stage designing, and recruiting participants. Sounds of Hope at Potter's House (2012), The Gift (October 2015; October 2016, and October 21, 2017); Building Family in the 21st Century (June 2016); Painting Your Future Bright: A Sip and Paint for Girls Ages 13 - 17 (March 16, 2019); and PaintSpiration: An Interactive Workshop designed for girls ages 13 through 17 (May 4, 2019).
ARTS SPECIALIST. Edlavitch Jewish Community Center of Washington, DC, Washington, D.C. June 20, 2018 - July 25, 2018. Plan and present visual arts classes for students of varying backgrounds and abilities, create a safe, structured, and positive environment for each student; and prepare and disseminate a weekly report for the Program Manager, Justin Love.
SUBSTITUTE TEACHER. DC International School, Washington, D.C. 2016 - 2017. Managed and co-managed select classrooms; provided instructions according to prepared lesson plans; ensure classroom environment that promoted active learning while working with students to reinforce learning objectives as defined by the school; and performed other assigned duties.
AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM TEACHER. JEAP, Washington, D.C.. 2015. Responsible for preparing materials, organizing activities, helping students with assignments, and reporting to management.
AFRICAN DANCE INSTRUCTOR. Roda Movements, Takoma Park, M.D.. 2015 - 2015. Taught a group of young children ages 7 - 9. Students learned a variety of West African Dances, cultural and historical context for each dance with a ½ hour warm-up, and energetic dance movements. Students learned a variety of West African Dances, cultural and historical within the context for each dance.
WEST AFRICAN DANCE INSTRUCTOR. M.O.M.I.E.S TLC and YWDEP, Washington, DC. SUMMER 2015 Kingdom Kids Care, Washington, DC. Provided West African dance instruction to a group of students for a Summer Camp program such as M.O.M.I.E.S. TLC and Y.W.D.E.P. Students learned a variety of West African Dances, cultural and historical context for each dance with a ½ hour warm-up, and energetic dance movements. Students learned a variety of West African Dances, cultural and historical within the context for each dance. Also provided instruction for students at several other organizations including Kingdom Kids Care, Washington, DC. (July 3, 2013 - July 17, 2013) Hyde Addison Elementary School (May 18, 2013)
SUBSTITUTE DANCE INSTRUCTOR. Joy of Motion Dance Center, Washington, DC. August 2013. Provided dance instruction to students grades 9 -12 in the absence of the studio teacher for the World Intensive Summer Camp.
SUBSTITUTE DANCE INSTRUCTOR. Joy of Motion Dance Center, Washington, DC. 2013 - 2015. Provided dance instruction to children and adults in the absence of the studio teacher. Taught Samba Fusion - All Levels and Afro Beats - All Levels.
AFROBEAT, a dance class that includes a fusion of modern and African upbeat combinations to Nigerian music, inspired by FELA! the musical.
Samba Fusion, a dance workout that brings the benefits of basic samba/axe drills and steps to tone muscles.
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). Created and implemented a visual arts lesson plan for summer program, specific to 5th - 8th grade students of varying backgrounds and abilities. Students gained knowledge and dexterity in specific forms of visual arts, including abstract painting.
AFFILIATED TEACHING ARTIST. Young Playwrights' Theatre (YPT), Washington, DC. October 2012 - May 2013. Planned and presented visual arts classes for first and second grade students of varying backgrounds and abilities, integrating literacy fundamentals within the context of the classroom instruction; created a safe, structured, and positive environment for each student; established my own classroom rules for each student to follow; and prepared and disseminated a weekly report for the Program Manager, Laurie Ascoli.
SUBSTITUTE TEACHER. Mundo Verde Public Charter Schools, Washington, DC. December 2013 - 2014. Managed and co-managed select classrooms; provided instructions according to prepared lesson plans; ensure classroom environment that promoted active learning while working with students to reinforce learning objectives as defined by the school; and performed other assigned duties.
STUDENT SUCCESS COACH. Center City Public Charter Schools, Washington, DC. October 2013-December 2013. Responsibilities included tutoring individuals or small group of students; uphold the school's behavior policy; and providing assistant with various extended learning program activities as needed.
READING TUTOR. Reading Partners, Washington, D.C. January 2013 through May 2013.Provided specialized instruction and academic assistance to students in 3rd through 5th grade, using the Reading Partners program and curriculum.
SUBSTITUTE AFRICAN DANCE PRE - PROFESSIONAL INSTRUCTOR. The Dance Institute of Washington (DIW), Washington, D.C. 2010 - 2012.Provided West African Dance Classes for the Pre-Professional Program targeted for ages 12-21 on Wednesdays.
Guest Host. Summer is Magic Artist's Reception. The Martin Luther King Memorial Library, Washington, DC. July 17, 2003
Guest Host. Word of Mouth. Bossa Bistro Lounge, Washington, DC. March 13, 2003
Guest Host for “Open Mic”. John Nelson Gallery, Maryland. November 8, 2003
Guest Host. A Night of Poetry. Trinity College, Cullivy Lounge, Washington, DC. February 19, 2004
Host. Youth Poetry Open Mic. Kick Off Youth Poetry Week. Saturday, April 10, 2004. Mt. Pleasant Library 3160 16th St NW (Corner of 16th and Lamont St. NW) Washington, DC(basement).
PROGRAM COORDINATOR. Esther Productions, Inc., Washington D.C.. November 2004 - March 2006. Designed and implemented community outreach programs for Esther Productions, Inc.. This involved developing program objectives, identifying potential audience, and developing outreach campaigns for the targeted population. With Esther Productions, Inc also helped create in school - programs that focused on middle school girls growing without their fathers.
Guest Host. The Poets Den (Kaffa House), Washington, DC. July 26, 2001
Host. 1st Thursday Poetry Open Mic Fest sponsored by Cultural Development Corporation and Starbucks, managed by Desho Productions. 2001 - 2002
Coordinator. Open Mic.Islander Caribbean Restaurant & Lounge, Washington, DC. 2001
Co-coordinator. Provisions Poetry Fest and Free the Peace.Provisions Library, Washington, DC. 2002
PROJECT DIRECTOR. Jubilee Enterprise of Greater Washington, DC. August 2001 - August 2002. Supervised overall activities of after school program staff at three sites. Reviewed weekly plans of Academic Activity Coordinator. Also was responsible for hiring and assigning other employees who served as after school tutors; developed and implemented training program for project tutors; maintained program field; collected weekly timesheets for program staff and implemented cultural enrichment and parental involvement activities; developed and implemented special event honoring student achievers; recruited staff; coordinated and implemented activities for the Building Upon Principles Summer Enrichment and Cultural Program.
PROGRAM MONITOR/ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT. DC Department of Parks and Recreation, Washington, DC. 2001 - 2001. Responsible for oversight of the Summer Arts Program. Duties also included maintenance of the database and general administration.
GALLERY ASSISTANT. Phillips Collection. 2000. Responsible for monitoring and keeping artwork safe during gallery hours.
AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM TEACHER. Academy for Ideal Education, Washington, D.C. 1997. Responsible for preparing materials, organizing activities, helping students with assignments, and reporting to management.
ART CURATOR. New Harlem Gallery, New York City. 1992 - 1993. Installed art for some of the exhibitions held at the New Harlem Gallery.
CONSULTANT. Varies. Washington, DC. 1992 - present. Designed and implemented media campaigns for several individuals, small businesses and nonprofit organizations, including the Malcolm X Dancers and Drummers, Esther Productions, Inc., African American Women's Resource Center, and Adams Morgan Day Festival. This involved identifying media contacts; writing press releases and other publicity materials, including posters and flyers; disseminating press kits; and interfacing with reporters and other journalists. Disseminated flyers, press releases, designed and implemented media campaigns for Esther Productions, Inc and Mr. Ralph Nader. Provided research,fundraising and typing services for Kerry S. Pearson, LLC and DC Coalition for Housing and Justice.
Born and raised in Washington, DC, I have cultivated a diverse and impactful career across multiple disciplines, including art, consulting, dance, and literature. A graduate of Bell Multicultural High School and the Corcoran School of the Arts, I have received numerous grants from the D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities, celebrating my artistic contributions. My notable achievements include featuring my artwork in the "African Heritage" brochure in 1992 and securing an art commission for Baba Djimo in 1997. My abstract paintings, such as "Summer Blossoms," have garnered attention, with one piece being used as a book cover by Esther Productions, Inc. In addition to creating and selling my art, I have donated multiple pieces to various organizations and showcased my work in exhibitions, including the Virtual Art Exhibition and Poetry Reading in February 2023. My professional experience encompasses roles such as program administrator for Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers, art specialist at the Edlavitch Jewish Community Center, and dance instructor at various institutions. I have developed and implemented outreach programs, taught diverse groups of students, and created positive learning environments. My consulting work includes managing media campaigns for individuals and nonprofits, collaborating with organizations like the Malcolm X Dancers and Drummers and the African American Women's Resource Center. Through my multifaceted experiences, I have successfully engaged with a variety of communities, sharing my passion for creativity and making meaningful contributions to the cultural landscape of Washington, DC, and beyond.
ART SOLD:
In 2022, Esther Productions, Inc purchased Summer Blossoms (an abstract painting) to use for the book cover of Kaleidoscope.
On June 23, 2023, Esther Productions, Inc purchased one of Ms. Afrika Abney's abstract paintings that she created on March 4, 2023.
On December 3, 2023, Esther Productions, Inc purchased two abstract paintings created by Ms. Afrika Abney.
ART DONATIONS:
On August 13, 2022, Ms. Afrika Abney donated several abstract collages and paintings to Esther Productions, Inc.
SELECTED ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Art featured on brochure and book cover
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 EXPERIENCES
PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION. Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers and Esther Productions, Inc, Washington, D.C.. Responsible for hosting, setting up tables, clean up, interior decorating, stage designing, and recruiting participants. Sounds of Hope at Potter's House (2012), The Gift (October 2015; October 2016, and October 21, 2017); Building Family in the 21st Century (June 2016); Painting Your Future Bright: A Sip and Paint for Girls Ages 13 - 17 (March 16, 2019); and PaintSpiration: An Interactive Workshop designed for girls ages 13 through 17 (May 4, 2019).
ARTS SPECIALIST. Edlavitch Jewish Community Center of Washington, DC, Washington, D.C. June 20, 2018 - July 25, 2018. Plan and present visual arts classes for students of varying backgrounds and abilities, create a safe, structured, and positive environment for each student; and prepare and disseminate a weekly report for the Program Manager, Justin Love.
SUBSTITUTE TEACHER. DC International School, Washington, D.C. 2016 - 2017. Managed and co-managed select classrooms; provided instructions according to prepared lesson plans; ensure classroom environment that promoted active learning while working with students to reinforce learning objectives as defined by the school; and performed other assigned duties.
AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM TEACHER. JEAP, Washington, D.C.. 2015. Responsible for preparing materials, organizing activities, helping students with assignments, and reporting to management.
AFRICAN DANCE INSTRUCTOR. Roda Movements, Takoma Park, M.D.. 2015 - 2015. Taught a group of young children ages 7 - 9. Students learned a variety of West African Dances, cultural and historical context for each dance with a ½ hour warm-up, and energetic dance movements. Students learned a variety of West African Dances, cultural and historical within the context for each dance.
WEST AFRICAN DANCE INSTRUCTOR. M.O.M.I.E.S TLC and YWDEP, Washington, DC. SUMMER 2015 Kingdom Kids Care, Washington, DC. Provided West African dance instruction to a group of students for a Summer Camp program such as M.O.M.I.E.S. TLC and Y.W.D.E.P. Students learned a variety of West African Dances, cultural and historical context for each dance with a ½ hour warm-up, and energetic dance movements. Students learned a variety of West African Dances, cultural and historical within the context for each dance. Also provided instruction for students at several other organizations including Kingdom Kids Care, Washington, DC. (July 3, 2013 - July 17, 2013) Hyde Addison Elementary School (May 18, 2013)
SUBSTITUTE DANCE INSTRUCTOR. Joy of Motion Dance Center, Washington, DC. August 2013. Provided dance instruction to students grades 9 -12 in the absence of the studio teacher for the World Intensive Summer Camp.
SUBSTITUTE DANCE INSTRUCTOR. Joy of Motion Dance Center, Washington, DC. 2013 - 2015. Provided dance instruction to children and adults in the absence of the studio teacher. Taught Samba Fusion - All Levels and Afro Beats - All Levels.
AFROBEAT, a dance class that includes a fusion of modern and African upbeat combinations to Nigerian music, inspired by FELA! the musical.
Samba Fusion, a dance workout that brings the benefits of basic samba/axe drills and steps to tone muscles.
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). Created and implemented a visual arts lesson plan for summer program, specific to 5th - 8th grade students of varying backgrounds and abilities. Students gained knowledge and dexterity in specific forms of visual arts, including abstract painting.
AFFILIATED TEACHING ARTIST. Young Playwrights' Theatre (YPT), Washington, DC. October 2012 - May 2013. Planned and presented visual arts classes for first and second grade students of varying backgrounds and abilities, integrating literacy fundamentals within the context of the classroom instruction; created a safe, structured, and positive environment for each student; established my own classroom rules for each student to follow; and prepared and disseminated a weekly report for the Program Manager, Laurie Ascoli.
SUBSTITUTE TEACHER. Mundo Verde Public Charter Schools, Washington, DC. December 2013 - 2014. Managed and co-managed select classrooms; provided instructions according to prepared lesson plans; ensure classroom environment that promoted active learning while working with students to reinforce learning objectives as defined by the school; and performed other assigned duties.
STUDENT SUCCESS COACH. Center City Public Charter Schools, Washington, DC. October 2013-December 2013. Responsibilities included tutoring individuals or small group of students; uphold the school's behavior policy; and providing assistant with various extended learning program activities as needed.
READING TUTOR. Reading Partners, Washington, D.C. January 2013 through May 2013.Provided specialized instruction and academic assistance to students in 3rd through 5th grade, using the Reading Partners program and curriculum.
SUBSTITUTE AFRICAN DANCE PRE - PROFESSIONAL INSTRUCTOR. The Dance Institute of Washington (DIW), Washington, D.C. 2010 - 2012.Provided West African Dance Classes for the Pre-Professional Program targeted for ages 12-21 on Wednesdays.
Guest Host. Summer is Magic Artist's Reception. The Martin Luther King Memorial Library, Washington, DC. July 17, 2003
Guest Host. Word of Mouth. Bossa Bistro Lounge, Washington, DC. March 13, 2003
Guest Host for “Open Mic”. John Nelson Gallery, Maryland. November 8, 2003
Guest Host. A Night of Poetry. Trinity College, Cullivy Lounge, Washington, DC. February 19, 2004
Host. Youth Poetry Open Mic. Kick Off Youth Poetry Week. Saturday, April 10, 2004. Mt. Pleasant Library 3160 16th St NW (Corner of 16th and Lamont St. NW) Washington, DC(basement).
PROGRAM COORDINATOR. Esther Productions, Inc., Washington D.C.. November 2004 - March 2006. Designed and implemented community outreach programs for Esther Productions, Inc.. This involved developing program objectives, identifying potential audience, and developing outreach campaigns for the targeted population. With Esther Productions, Inc also helped create in school - programs that focused on middle school girls growing without their fathers.
Guest Host. The Poets Den (Kaffa House), Washington, DC. July 26, 2001
Host. 1st Thursday Poetry Open Mic Fest sponsored by Cultural Development Corporation and Starbucks, managed by Desho Productions. 2001 - 2002
Coordinator. Open Mic.Islander Caribbean Restaurant & Lounge, Washington, DC. 2001
Co-coordinator. Provisions Poetry Fest and Free the Peace.Provisions Library, Washington, DC. 2002
PROJECT DIRECTOR. Jubilee Enterprise of Greater Washington, DC. August 2001 - August 2002. Supervised overall activities of after school program staff at three sites. Reviewed weekly plans of Academic Activity Coordinator. Also was responsible for hiring and assigning other employees who served as after school tutors; developed and implemented training program for project tutors; maintained program field; collected weekly timesheets for program staff and implemented cultural enrichment and parental involvement activities; developed and implemented special event honoring student achievers; recruited staff; coordinated and implemented activities for the Building Upon Principles Summer Enrichment and Cultural Program.
PROGRAM MONITOR/ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT. DC Department of Parks and Recreation, Washington, DC. 2001 - 2001. Responsible for oversight of the Summer Arts Program. Duties also included maintenance of the database and general administration.
GALLERY ASSISTANT. Phillips Collection. 2000. Responsible for monitoring and keeping artwork safe during gallery hours.
AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM TEACHER. Academy for Ideal Education, Washington, D.C. 1997. Responsible for preparing materials, organizing activities, helping students with assignments, and reporting to management.
ART CURATOR. New Harlem Gallery, New York City. 1992 - 1993. Installed art for some of the exhibitions held at the New Harlem Gallery.
CONSULTANT. Varies. Washington, DC. 1992 - present. Designed and implemented media campaigns for several individuals, small businesses and nonprofit organizations, including the Malcolm X Dancers and Drummers, Esther Productions, Inc., African American Women's Resource Center, and Adams Morgan Day Festival. This involved identifying media contacts; writing press releases and other publicity materials, including posters and flyers; disseminating press kits; and interfacing with reporters and other journalists. Disseminated flyers, press releases, designed and implemented media campaigns for Esther Productions, Inc and Mr. Ralph Nader. Provided research,fundraising and typing services for Kerry S. Pearson, LLC and DC Coalition for Housing and Justice.