Spectrum of Stories

Spectrum of Stories. Digital art created on canvas. August 10, 2024.Afrika Abney

The importance of art in the United States is profoundly rooted in its capacity to enhance my understanding of my cultural identity. By immersing myself in different artistic expressions, I am able to delve into the stories that influence my life and the community I inhabit. Art provides a unique lens through which I can examine the myriad experiences and traditions that weave together the intricate fabric of American culture, allowing me to cultivate a deeper appreciation for the multifaceted nature of both history and contemporary society.

In addition to its role in cultural exploration, art acts as a significant source of inspiration, prompting me to contemplate my personal experiences and feelings. The creative works I encounter resonate with my own journey, sparking reflections that lead to a more profound self-awareness.

Self-introspection

“Self-introspection, or self-reflection, can be an important part of a professional life. It can help people understand their abilities, improve their performance, and develop self-awareness.” Reflective Blues. Digital art created on canvas. August 8, 2024. Afrika Abney Introducing a captivating piece of art that invites viewers into a realm of deep contemplation and self-introspection. This blue abstract painting, characterized by its rich and varied shades of blue, serves as a visual representation of tranquility and depth. Each stroke is meticulously applied, creating a sense of movement and depth that draws the eye and engages the viewer in a dialogue about their inner self. In my capacity as a consultant, I leverage my formal education and training in the arts to offer specialized consulting services tailored for small businesses and nonprofit organizations. My confidence in my creative abilities empowers me to deliver innovative solutions and services that meet the unique needs ...

Cheriss May and Zsudayka Nzinga @ BZB Holiday Gala Fine Art Show

Cheriss May and Zsudayka Nzinga @ BZB Holiday Gala Fine Art Show Cheriss May " Cheriss May is a lauded portrait and editorial photographer based in Washington, D.C. She is a member of the Board of Directors — Focus on the Story , the immediate past president — Women Photojournalists of Washingto n (WPOW) , co-chair of photography — The National Press Clu b , an Adobe Education Leader , and an adjunct professor at Howard University , her Alma Mater. She is often commissioned to speak about inclusive storytelling, and trains and speaks to organizations, and educators around the world, including: Spotify, Adobe, Leica, The Financial Times, the Center for Creative Photography, and the International Center of Photography. Cheriss has been published in The New York Times, O Magazine, The White House website, People magazine, The San Francisco Chronicle, ABC News, The Today Show, and other international publica...

Receive Free Copy of Fathering Words on October 14th

Free Copy of Fathering Words by Mr. Ethelbert Miller on October 14th as he is the special guest for Me, Myself & Our Story: The Art of the Memoir, Part 1 scheduled for October 14th from 10 am to 2 pm. It is presented by Esther Productions, Inc and The Institute for African American Writing. There'll be light refreshments and a prize for the best draft essay as voted by participants. So, you won't want to miss this. REGISTER NOW. (Seating is limited to 10) - https://www. estherproductionsinc.com/ events-1/me-myself-and-our- story-the-art-of-memoir-part-1 "Moving beyond the loss of both his father and brother, E.Ethelbert Miller tells the story of how love survived in his family. When Miller was about ten years old, his father told him how he considered leaving his mother. Years later, now a writer and a father, Miller looks back on the simple remark and how it shaped him. In Fathering Words, Miller explores his development as an African American writer, the res...

Forever In Your Eyes by Sylvia Dianne Beverly

“Forever In Your Eyes” Sylvia Dianne Beverly ISBN-13:9781546266716 Publisher: AuthorHouse Publication date:11/27/2018 Pages:132 Product dimensions:5.00(w) x 8.00(h) x 0.31(d) “Forever In Your Eyes” is an inspirational, uplifting, motivational and delightful book. Each of the poems are insightful, healing and touching such as “Deep In My Heart,” “My Heart Speaks,” and “Bring Back The Holy Spirit.” After reading, “Forever In Your Eyes,” you will find yourself completely energized and refreshed. My favorite poem written by Sylvia Dianne Beverly and is published in “Forever In Your Eyes” is entitled: “It’s Up To Me.” Reviewed by Afrika Abney July 2007 https://www.amazon.com/Forever-Your-Sylvia-Dianne-Beverly/dp/1546266712 Ms. Sylvia Dianne Beverly, “Ladi Di” is a native of Washington, D.C, founder/director of "Girls with Hearts," (youth poetry group), poet, and author of Forever In Your Eyes (A potpourri o...

Why Work with Women and Girls?

" As women, we have been taught to always compete with each other and compare ourselves on the basis of the way we look and act. Working with each other closely kills that way of thinking, empowers us and helps us create together in an environment that we feel safe in." Therefore, working with women and girls not helps me to empower them to feel good about themselves, but to heal themselves from trauma and other experiences that they may encountered. Organizations such as Esther Productions, Inc and the African American Women's Resource Center allowed me to work with a diverse set of women and girls from different backgrounds and sexual orientation beliefs. In 2004, I began to work with Esther Productions, Inc and from 2017 - 2018, I provided services for the African American Women's Resource Center. Esther Productions, Inc. is dedicated to using a variety of vehicles—traditional and nontraditional—to develop communities throughout the United States and Europ...

Professionalism

“Professionalism is essential for success in the workplace, incorporating dedication, integrity, and responsibility. It involves how you present yourself, your attitude, and communication skills. Professionalism can lead to a positive first impression, strong relationships, and a good reputation.” Gray 1 - 2. Digital art created on canvas. 2022. Afrika Abney “Gray displays a strong sense of individualism, independence, and self-motivation.Gray is a neutral color that is a mix of black and white, and is also known as gray. Gray color also conveys professionalism, calmness, and sophistication, so it's an excellent choice! It is achromatic, meaning it has no hue or chroma and technically has no color, so it doesn't appear on the color wheel. Gray's neutrality makes it versatile and allows it to be combined with other colors. For example, it can be paired with pale colors for a calm palette, or with warm, dark colors like burnt orange for a more energetic feel.” I created this...

Peacock

“The female peacock, also known as a peahen, can also represent inner beauty and self-love. Beauty: Peacocks' iridescent feathers can symbolize external beauty and capture attention. However, peacocks can also remind us that true beauty comes from within, and that nurturing our souls can enhance our outer appearance. Self-love: Peacocks can represent the importance of self-love and acceptance.” “Important qualities in the workplace include self-expression, optimism, individuality, personal reflection, being observant, and passionate. Self-expression can foster inclusivity and empowerment. Optimism involves expecting positive outcomes and growth. Individuality means bringing your whole self to work or fostering an individualist culture. Self-reflection aids personal and professional growth. Being observant helps notice details others may miss. Passion in the workplace involves finding meaning and approaching work with focus.” Dynamic and passionate individual with a strong focus on...

Stencil Printing

“Stenciling is an artistic technique that enables the reproduction of designs by applying ink or paint through cut-out shapes in materials such as cardboard or metal onto a chosen surface. This method shares similarities with screen printing, as both techniques involve the careful application of a design while utilizing a medium to block out areas that should remain unprinted. The accuracy inherent in stenciling facilitates the transfer of detailed patterns and images, ensuring they are rendered with both clarity and uniformity.” In 1992, I embarked on a creative project titled Kuumba Suras/The Creative Figures of Africa, which centered around the art of stencil printing. It involved the use of the letter A, incorporating a vibrant palette of colors including purple, gray, magenta, and yellow, all set against a crisp white background. The choice of colors and the simplicity of the letterform were intended to evoke a sense of cultural significance and artistic expression. During t...

The power of speaking up

Quote found on the Internet “The power of speaking up is an open culture where people feel empowered to express opinion, debate issues, provide insight and perspective, and is the starting point for an organization to grow and succeed.” Dedicated to creating a culture where every voice is heard and valued, I believe in the power of speaking up to drive organizational growth and success. My mission is to promote honesty, respect, and influence through transparent and constructive dialogues. With a robust background in communication and problem-solving, I bring a unique perspective to discussions and decision-making processes. I actively engage in debates, providing insight and perspective to contribute to effective solutions. Throughout my career, I have successfully raised concerns about workplace safety, ethical issues, and harassment, leading to tangible improvements in organizational processes and outcomes. I have a proven track record of driving positive change through open and ho...

The AACL Tour presented by Esther Productions Inc. in partnership with The Black Student Fund and The Institute for African American Writing

The AACL Tour opened on March 16th and took place at Francis Gregory. The next AACL Tour is scheduled to take place on April 20, 2024. Please see details below: (Photo credit from Esther Productions, Inc's programs)- https://www.estherproductionsinc.com/aachildrensliterature Esther Productions Inc., in partnership with The Black Student Fund and The Institute for African American Writing presents two authors Ms. Joy Jones and Mr. E.Ethelbert Miller on April 20th. Info: aachildrenslit2023 @gmail.com . " Joy Jones has taught creative writing and public speaking to middle school students and coached poetry slam teams. Her children’s book Tambourine Moon (Simon & Schuster) was chosen in 2000 as a Kid’s Pick of the Lists by the American Booksellers Association, selected as one of the best books for children by the black caucus of the ALA, and seen on Fox TV’s hit show The Bernie Mac Show. She is also the author of Private Lessons:A Book of Meditations for Te...

Ms. Afrika Abney - Consultant Branding Blog

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