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.

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."

Me, Myself and Our Story: A Creative Writing Institute in Poetry,Short Story and Memoir Writing

Me, Myself and Our Story: A Creative Writing Institute in Poetry,Short Story and Memoir Writing Feb 10, 2024, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM EST 901 G St. NW, Washington, DC -Room 401-E Esther Productions Inc. is presenting a professional creative writing institute providing instruction in poetry, fiction and memoir writing. Course of study will provide six weeks of focus and instruction on each topic. That is six weeks of poetry, six weeks of fiction and six weeks of memoir writing. The Institute is for young ladies 15-19 years old who have an interest in creative writing. The first session will be in poetry. Students should be prepared to attend all six sessions. Registration is required; seating is limited. So register now! - www.estherproductionsinc.com/events-1/me-myself-and-our-story-a-creative-writing-institute-in-poetry-short-story-and-memoir-writing For more information: write to estherproductionsinc@gmail.com Please note these workshops are only for young ladies aged 15-19.

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.”

DC Public Charter School Board

"DC PCSB is an independent government agency of the District of Columbia, created in 1996, led by a volunteer seven-member board. DC PCSB provides oversight to 135 public charter schools, which are managed by 69 independently run nonprofit organizations called local education agencies" The DC Public Charter School Board has listed several workshops,The Discovery Summit and Scholarship Awards Ceremony, and Discovering Me...Without You: An Annual Personal Essay Contest which were all launched by Esther Productions, Inc in their bulletin in the past. 10-26 - 22 https://mailchi.mp/3dd58c7b5cc2/wednesday-bulletin-795754?e=4ae2bafe99 11-22 - 22 https://mailchi.mp/6b8b007a5b05/wednesday-bulletin-795758?e=4ae2bafe99 11-23-22 https://mailchi.mp/a3197817a7ab/wednesday-bulletin-795770?e=4ae2bafe99 11-30 - 22 https://mailchi.mp/7498c107cc56/wednesday-bulletin-795774?e=4ae2bafe99 12-7-22 https://mailchi.mp/70cf4b50e59c/wednesday-bulletin-795782?e=4ae2bafe99 9 - 20 ...

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.”

Brain Gilmore at Francis Gregory - This Saturday

Award-winning poet Brian Gilmore will read excerpts from his upcoming book " No More Worlds To Conquer: The Black Poet in Washington DC Since Paul Laurence Dunba r" on Saturday, March 16, 2024 at Francis Gregory. " BRIAN GILMORE is a native of Washington D.C., a poet and long-time public interest attorney. He is also the author of four books of poetry and numerous essays for The Progressive Magazine. Brian has won numerous awards, including the 2020 Michigan Notable Book Award for his book, come see about me marvin (Wayne State University Press). He is Senior Lecturer in the Law and Society Program at the University of Maryland - College Park." Register at https://www. estherproductionsinc.com/ events-1/african-americans- and-childrens-literature-on- tour Please join him along with Ms. Mathis on Saturday. Info: aachildrenslit2023@ gmail.com

Courage

Courage. Digital art created on canvas. August 2, 2024. Afrika Abney The essence of courage comes to life with vibrant shades of red hues. The rich palette and innovative use of color evoke feelings of strength and bravery, making it a striking representation of resilience and passion. “Courage in the workplace can involve acting with integrity, conviction, and a sense of purpose. It can also mean creating an environment that supports and rewards courageous behavior. Speaking up: Sharing concerns, offering criticism, or challenging the status quo Risk-taking: Trying new ideas, approaches, or responsibilities Standing up for what's right: Advocating for ethical behavior, reporting wrongdoing, or addressing misconduct.”

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

The 4th Annual Teach Truth Day of Action with Author Carolivia Herron

"Carolivia Herron is a retired professor of comparative literature who directs the EpicCentering the National Mall creative writing program for at risk youth. She is best known as the author of the children’s book Nappy Hair. She is a speaker with the Pen Faulkner Writers in Schools program, an African American Jew, and an active member of Tifereth Israel of Washington, DC." About the event: Jun 08, 2024, 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM EDT Washington, 3660 Alabama Ave SE, Washington, DC 20020, USA Join Esther Productions Inc., The Spoken Word and Francis Gregory Neighborhood Library as we co-sponsor the 4th Annual Teach Truth Day of Action, a Zinn Education Project, coordinated by Rethinking Schools and Teaching for Change. Come stand with Esther Productions Inc. The Spoken Word and the Francis Gregory against banning books and preventing the teaching of history. Come hear Author Carolivia Herron read and discuss her book "Nappy Hair," which is banned in New Yor...

Ms. Afrika Abney - Consultant Branding Blog

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