Passion for Painting and Poetry Events

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Dynamic and dedicated creative professional with extensive experience in orchestrating impactful poetry and painting events. Committed to inspiring and uplifting individuals through the fusion of artistic expression, I have successfully collaborated on notable projects such as "Sip, Paint and Reflect" and "Kaleidoscope: Women of Color Reflection on Life." My artistic talents are showcased through my abstract paintings, including the esteemed "Summer Blossoms," featured on the cover of a prominent literary work. With a strong background in community engagement and event hosting in the Washington, DC area, I have facilitated diverse programming, including poetry readings and workshops, to promote vibrant literary culture. A proven track record of securing funding for innovative initiatives underscores my dedication to fostering creativity and enhancing literary skills in youth. Passionate about promoting diverse voices and creating meaningful experiences, I thrive on bringing communities together through the transformative power of art and words.

SELECTED EXPERIENCES

Guest Host. Summer is Magic Artist's Reception. The Martin Luther King Memorial Library, Washington, DC. July 17, 2003

Guest Host. The Poets Den (Kaffa House), Washington, DC. July 26, 2001

"A Night of Poetry". The Market Five Gallery, Washington, D.C.. Oct 26, 2002

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. 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

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).

SELECTED LITERARY EVENTS:

The Spirit Through Us, Poetry Fest, Night of Poetry, Mothers Day Celebration, Cultural Fair, Women's History Month Poetry Seminar, Poetry and Music Open Mic, Summer Festival and Fundraiser, A Family Affair, Celebration of Love and History, Poetry for Peace, Ancestral Celebration and Building Self - Esteem Through Self Awareness, Royal Words Poetry Lounge and Poetic Beats

About The Literary Events:

Literary events such as The Spirit Through Us, Poetry Fest, Night of Poetry, Mother's Day Celebration, Cultural Fair, Women's History Month Poetry Seminar, and more offer a variety of opportunities to engage in poetry readings and open mic sessions. Hosted and coordinated by an experienced and versatile poet, these events aim to promote the art of poetry and create a supportive creative community.

Highlighted events include the Poetic Beats featuring poets such as Asantewaa Henry, Eric L. Farrell, Lady Di, and others at Dar Es Salaam Bookstore. A Night of Poetry in celebration of Black History Month at Trinity College, Kerby Lounge, saw the vibrant sounds of "Yamama N'ym" performing live. Other events like Royal Words Poetry Lounge at DC Sanctuary and various poetry fests like the 1st Thursday Poetry Fest at Starbucks Chinatown showcase a range of talented poets and special guest appearances. Additionally, youth poetry events and open mic sessions provide a platform for emerging voices in the poetry community. These events offer a chance to celebrate diversity, history, and culture through the power of poetry.

PAST LITERARY WORKSHOPS

Mt. Pleasant Library, Washington, DC. 2013 - 2014. Designed to assist children ages 6 -12 to expand their literary skills.

Takoma Park Library, Washington,DC. 2003. Enhancing Our Imaginations was funded by the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities. The workshop was geared towards young adults. Invited many poets and literary artists to be a part of the workshop. Some of them include Rebecca Bishophall, Judine Slaughter, Hank Okoro and many others.

Empowering Women

"Empowering a woman empowers next generations." - Author Unknown "Empower the Women, Develop the Nation!" - Author Unknown "We rise by lifting others." - Author Unknown "Feminism is the ability to choose what you want to do." - Nancy Reagan Empowering Women. Digital art created on canvas. Afrika Abney

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...

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.

Professional Fusions

Professional Fusions. Digital art created on canvas. September 10, 2024. Afrika Abney “Professional Fusions a blend of both colors orange and blue, representing a unique combination of professionalism and creativity. Orange, often associated with enthusiasm and creativity, brings a vibrant energy to the professional environment, encouraging innovation and dynamic thinking. Meanwhile, blue is widely recognized for its connotations of trust, reliability, and calmness, making it an ideal choice for fostering a sense of security and stability in professional settings.”

Luminous Moon

Luminous Moon. Digital art created on canvas. September 15, 2024. Afrika Abney Last night before going to sleep, I took a moment to gaze at the moon, its luminous presence casting a serene glow across the evening sky. In addition to this, I read thought-provoking quotes, which not only stimulates my mind but also enriches my creative process. Additionally, since August 8, 2024, I have been using paintapp to create my digital art before going to sleep or upon waking up from my restful sleep. Selected Expertise & Skills: Proficient in using paintapp, Freshpaint, and Medibang for digital art creation Strong eye for detail and composition Ability to convey emotions through art Constantly seeking inspiration from nature and literature

Past Educational Services

I provided educational consulting services from 1995 - 2018 for numerous schools and organizations. Among them include Edlavitch Jewish Community Center of Washington, DC (2018), DC International School (subbed for Ms. Mireya Goni Camejo (Spanish Art Teacher) – 2016 - 2017), Higher Achievement (2003 - 2004;2013) Washington, DC - Metro, Mundo Verde Public Charter Schools (2013 - 2014), Young Playwrights' Theatre (YPT) (2012 - 2013), Roda Movements (2015),M.O.M.I.E.S TLC (2015), YWDEP (2015), Kingdom Kids Care (2013), Joy of Motion Dance Center (2013 - 2015), Dance Institute of Washington (DIW) (2010 - 2012), and many others. I no longer provide educational services. https://msafrikaabney.weebly.com/educational-services.html

Respect Spectrum

Respect Spectrum. Digital art created on canvas. September 18, 2024. Afrika Abney “The concept of Respect Spectrum encompasses a diverse array of colors, specifically shades of pink, purple, and blue. The Respect Spectrum is a multifaceted concept that incorporates a variety of colors, particularly emphasizing shades of pink, purple, and blue. Each of these colors is imbued with distinct meanings and cultural associations that contribute to the overarching theme of respect. Pink is often seen as a gentle and nurturing color, evoking feelings of compassion and understanding, which can foster an atmosphere of respect in interpersonal relationships. Purple, historically associated with royalty and nobility, conveys a sense of dignity and honor, making it a powerful color in contexts where respect is paramount. Blue, on the other hand, is commonly associated with trust and reliability, qualities that are essential in establishing and maintaining respectful interactions.”

Enthusiasm in Color

Enthusiasm in Color. Digital art created on canvas. September 21, 2024. Afrika Abney “Enthusiasm in Color is beautifully captured in the lively shades of red-orange and pink. These colors are not just visually striking; they embody a sense of energy and excitement that can invigorate the spirit. The red-orange hue, in particular, is a powerful representation of passion and drive, igniting a spark of motivation that encourages individuals to pursue their creative endeavors with fervor. It serves as a reminder of the dynamic force that enthusiasm can bring into our lives, pushing us to take action and embrace new challenges. On the other hand, enthusiasm for pink lies in its gentle yet uplifting nature. This color radiates a sense of warmth and joy, creating an inviting atmosphere that fosters happiness and positivity. Pink has a unique ability to evoke feelings of comfort and connection, making it an ideal representation of the softer side of enthusiasm. It encourages a sense of communi...

ClearHonesty

My journey into the world of consulting began during my high school years at Bell Multicultural High School, where I participated in the Congressional Art Competition between 1992 and 1993. At that time, I was just a teenager, navigating the complexities of adolescence while immersing myself in the vibrant world of art. This experience not only honed my artistic skills but also opened doors to new opportunities, allowing me to explore the intersection of creativity and professional development. Drawing from my formal education in the visual arts, I have developed a unique approach to consulting that emphasizes creativity and innovation. My background enables me to devise strategies that are not only effective but also visually compelling. For instance, I often use the color white in my presentations and materials, as it symbolizes purity and honesty. Ultimately, my experiences as a young artist have shaped my professional identity, driving me to create impactful and meanin...

2016 Color Chronicles

2016 Color Chronicles. Digital art created on canvas. September 5, 2024. Afrika Abney The concept of the 2016 Color Chronicles introduces a narrative framework that emphasizes the importance of specific colors—namely blue, pink, and dark pink—in relation to the events of that year. This approach not only serves to illustrate the emotional landscape of 2016 but also invites a deeper exploration of how these colors can encapsulate personal experiences and collective sentiments. By focusing on these particular hues, the narrative seeks to convey a rich tapestry of feelings and memories that were prevalent during that time. Upon reflection, the colors that best represent the essence of 2016, a year that has since passed, are primarily blue and pink. These colors were deliberately selected for their emotional depth and their capacity to articulate the diverse experiences I navigated throughout that year. The choice of these specific shades is rooted in a profound connection to ...

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