Ms. Afrika Abney - Consultant Branding Blog

“Here are some ways to foster a culture of creativity in the workplace: Embrace diversity Build teams with a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. This can lead to a broader range of ideas and approaches to problem-solving. Encourage collaboration Collaborating on projects increases creativity and fosters innovation. It also creates balance and helps employees build better workplace culture. Celebrate innovation Celebrate innovation successes to help motivate employees and inspire them to pursue innovative ideas and solutions.” Vibrant Harmony Digital art created on canvas. August 5, 2024. Afrika Abney Vibrant Harmony is an exquisite abstract painting that truly stands out with its captivating blend of colors, primarily showcasing a rich interplay of purple and orange. The background features a masterful fusion of these two hues, where the deep, calming purples create a tranquil foundation, while the bright, fiery oranges inject a sense of warmth and energy. This stri...

“Art empowers people by transforming lives. Art can bring awareness to social issues and foster a sense of acceptance — bringing people together regardless of background. Art helps us to understand the world and has the ability to influence entire communities, movements and the Universal frequency.” Quote found on the Internet As a compassionate and resilient artist with a rich background shaped by both challenging and uplifting experiences, I have navigated the complexities of adolescence while facing bullying and trauma. My journey began at NationHouse (1978 - 1991), an African-centered school that nurtured my cultural identity and provided a supportive environment, despite the difficulties I encountered. Through my participation in cultural events such as Kwanzaa (1970s - 2016) and mentorship from inspiring instructors, I have developed a deep appreciation for my heritage. I believe in the power of art to heal and inspire, and I am dedicated to using my artistic voice to empower ot...

“Creative problem-solving involves analyzing an issue, defining an approach and implementing a solution. Just like any other skill, it requires a strategic approach and practice to get better. Follow these steps to start improving your creative problem-solving skills.Coming up with lots of ideas is essential for creative problem-solving in consulting. Techniques like brainstorming and mind mapping help explore various solutions. The key is to generate many ideas without judgment.” Quote found on the Internet Passionate about creative problem-solving and driving innovation, I am a seasoned professional with a strong foundation in creative thinking and strategic development, my journey began with early involvement in the Congresswoman's Art Competition in 1992 and 1993. This experience sparked a deep-seated passion for innovative problem-solving that continues to drive me in all my endeavors. My mission is to deliver fresh perspectives and creative solutions to every project I unde...

As someone who is dedicated to delivering exceptional results, I believe that commitment is not just a word, but a way of life that drives success in all aspects of my work. "Dedicated to delivering exceptional results" is a phrase that conveys a commitment to overcoming challenges, improving, and achieving goals. Dedication can be a way of life that affects all aspects of work.” BloomBrilliance. Digital art created on canvas. August 5, 2024. Afrika Abney BloomBrilliance, a digital art masterpiece that embodies exceptional brilliance and quality, I am dedicated to delivering exceptional results in all aspects of my work. With a passion for creativity and innovation, BloomBrilliance goes beyond a mere painting; it is a celebration of the limitless possibilities of digital art. My mission is to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary, inspiring awe and capturing the imagination of all who encounter it. My expertise lies in meticulously executing every element of the pain...

“ Social change A process that can build individual mastery and collective cultural capacity while contributing to positive social change. Social empowerment is a type of social change that involves enabling individuals and communities, especially marginalized groups, to fully participate in social, economic, and political life. It aims to create an inclusive society where everyone has equal opportunities to succeed. Social empowerment can involve promoting social inclusion, equal rights and opportunities, and challenging social norms and prejudices that perpetuate discrimination and exclusion. Community empowerment and social change are related concepts that involve giving people the tools and confidence to take control of their lives and communities: Community empowerment A process where people work together to gain more power and influence over what affects them. It involves community ownership and action that aims for social and political change. Community empowerment can help to ...

Creative Visionary. Digital art created on canvas. August 5, 2024. Afrika Abney This stunning painting features a captivating blend of yellow and blue hues, creating a mesmerizing abstract composition. My use of color and form in this piece evokes a sense of creativity and imagination, inviting viewers to interpret the painting in their own unique way. The bold and dynamic brushstrokes add depth and movement to the artwork, making it a truly engaging piece that sparks curiosity and intrigue. The painting embodies the essence of a creative visionary, as it showcases my ability to think outside the box and push the boundaries of traditional art forms. A creative visionary is someone who is imaginative and creative, and has the ability to think outside the box. They may also be described as having unusual foresight and imagination. Creative visionaries are often passionate about their field of study, and may have big ideas that could change the world. They may also be confident in their ...

Quote found on the Internet 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 creati...

Justice and Power. Digital art created on canvas. 2022. Afrika Abney This stunning piece of digital art, titled "Justice and Power," is a thought-provoking representation of the concepts of fairness, access to justice, and power imbalances in the workplace. The use of red and green paint against a black background in this piece symbolizes the dichotomy between justice and power. The red color may represent power, authority, and dominance, while the green color could symbolize growth, balance, and harmony. The black background serves as a stark backdrop, emphasizing the intensity and importance of these themes. "Justice and Power" serves as a powerful visual reminder of the challenges and complexities inherent in navigating issues of fairness, access to justice, and power imbalances in organizational settings. “Justice and power in the workplace can refer to a number of concepts, including workers' perceptions of fairness, access to justice, and power imbalances...

Inequality. Digital art created on canvas. 2022. Afrika Abney This abstract red and yellow painting is a vibrant and striking piece of art that can serve as a powerful symbol in the fight against occupational inequality. The bold use of red and yellow colors in the painting can be interpreted as a representation of diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. The abstract nature of the painting allows for individual interpretation, making it a thought-provoking piece that can spark meaningful conversations about the importance of treating people equally in the workplace, regardless of their gender, sexuality, age, disability, socioeconomic status, religion, height, weight, accent, or ethnicity. The use of red and yellow in the painting can be seen as a celebration of the differences that make each individual unique, while also serving as a reminder of the need for equality and fairness in the workplace. The bold and unapologetic nature of the colors used in the painting can make a powe...

Color Families. Digital art created on canvas. 2022. Afrika Abney This abstract painting features a captivating blend of red, yellow, and green colors, creating a visually striking piece that is sure to capture the attention of any observer. The artist skillfully utilizes these colors to demonstrate the concept of color families, showcasing how different hues can work together to create a harmonious and dynamic composition. The bold strokes and intricate details in the artwork invite viewers to explore the nuances of each color, from the passionate intensity of red to the vibrant cheerfulness of yellow, and the calming depth of green. By incorporating primary and secondary colors into the painting, I highlighted the interconnectedness of color families and the ways in which different hues can interact to create new shades and tones. The combination of red and yellow to produce the rich green color serves as a powerful example of how colors can blend and complement each other to evoke ...

I am dedicated to creating thought-provoking and visually stunning art pieces that challenge societal norms and promote inclusivity and resilience in the workplace. "Valuable Insights" serves as a powerful metaphor for the importance of data analysis, employee observations, and conversations in driving positive change and innovation. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling through art, I have skillfully captured the essence of hope, positivity, and resilience in the face of adversity in "Valuable Insights." My choice of colors, composition, and attention to detail convey a powerful message about the importance of embracing diversity and fostering open communication in the workplace. Since November 2021, I have been delivering valuable insights through my innovative branding blog, providing unique artwork that inspires and uplifts audiences while offering strategic branding advice. My marketing strategies have been effective, and my artwork has been...

“Result-oriented is a term used to describe people or organizations that focus on outcomes rather than the process used to achieve them. It can also refer to a way of thinking and working that involves setting clear, measurable goals and striving to achieve them. Result-oriented in the workplace is a way of thinking and working that focuses on achieving clear, measurable goals and outcomes, rather than the process used to produce them. It's a combination of job skills and personal attributes that involves setting and prioritizing goals, planning actions, and remaining flexible to change as needed. Result oriented is a term used to describe an individual or organization that focuses on outcome rather than process used to produce a product or deliver a service. As such, a number of processes are used where the most effective and economical process is identified.” Quote found on the Internet Results-oriented consultant with a passion for helping clients achieve their goals and stand ...

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...

As a dedicated professional with a passion for fostering collaboration and innovation, I have spent over two decades working with schools and community organizations to design and implement workshops that inspire creativity and engagement. My mission is to cultivate a culture of collaboration within organizations and empower individuals to drive success through collective efforts. With a proven track record of bringing people together to generate innovative ideas, I excel at leveraging diverse expertise to achieve measurable improvements in student engagement and learning outcomes. I have successfully designed and directed educational and arts programs for both children and adults, securing funding through grant proposals and enhancing community engagement. My collaborative workshops have been instrumental in serving diverse populations, including youth with developmental disabilities, and have consistently received positive feedback from participants. I am adept at ensuring thorough ...

Color Blend Experiences. Digital art created on canvas. August 4, 2024. Afrika Abney “Blending is a painting technique where two different colors are slightly mixed together when wet, giving a smooth transition from one color to the next. The transition color will be a product of the two blended colors (i.e., if you blend blue into yellow, the transition color will be green).The combination of primary and secondary colors is known as tertiary or intermediate colors, due to their compound nature. Blue-green, blue-violet, red-orange, red-violet, yellow-orange, and yellow-green are color combinations you can make from color mixing.” Dynamic and seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in fostering innovation through the blending of diverse perspectives, cultures, and ideas. Possesses a strong understanding of color theory and application, particularly in the context of blending techniques, which create seamless transitions and vibrant compositions. Adept at leveraging the p...

Positivity and Hope. Digital art created on canvas. August 4, 2024. Afrika Abney The vibrant yellow color symbolizes positivity and optimism, while the green and black brush strokes add a touch of creativity and depth to the artwork. The combination of colors creates a visually stimulating piece. The use of yellow in the painting represents positivity, which is essential in creating a healthy and productive work environment. Encouraging positive thinking is essential for the overall human development. The green and yellow brush strokes add an element of creativity and hope. Incorporating this painting into the workplace can have a positive impact. It can help boost morale, reduce stress, improve communication, and increase productivity. Additionally, the presence of vibrant colors and creative brush strokes can promote hope and optimism which leads to increased creativity, psychological strength, job satisfaction, and overall work happiness. This painting serves as a visual reminder o...

I am a storyteller at heart, weaving vibrant and dynamic narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. My career journey has been a "Colorful Narrative," blending creativity and depth in every project I undertake. With a passion for crafting experiences that evoke emotions and spark curiosity, I bring a unique perspective to every endeavor. My mission is to consistently deliver exceptional results and exceed expectations in every role I undertake. I am committed to using my creativity and passion to contribute to impactful projects and initiatives, fostering positive learning environments and enhancing collaboration in diverse settings. I excel in using bold ideas and intricate details to create compelling solutions that captivate and invite interpretation and connection. My ability to harmonize contrasting elements and leverage diverse perspectives sets me apart in problem-solving, communication, and grant writing. I have a deep understanding of cultural nuances that enri...

Clouded Innovations. Digital art created on canvas. August 4, 2024. Afrika Abney This stunning abstract painting, titled "Clouded Innovations," depicts a mesmerizing blue sky with vibrant pink and brown clouds. The use of vivid blue hues for the sky creates a sense of tranquility and serenity, inviting the viewer to immerse themselves in the peaceful atmosphere. The addition of pink and brown clouds adds a touch of drama and mystery to the scene, creating a visually striking and thought-provoking piece that is sure to captivate the imagination. The title "Clouded Innovations" adds an extra layer of meaning to the artwork, suggesting that the painting represents new ideas and creative breakthroughs. The presence of clouds in the painting symbolizes the ever-changing nature of innovation and the constant flow of new concepts and inspirations. The dynamic and fluid brushstrokes used to create the clouds further emphasize the theme of innovation, evoking a sense of mov...

Commitment. Digital art created on canvas. August 4, 2024. Afrika Abney As a dedicated consultant who firmly believes in the transformative power of commitment in the workplace, I am a vibrant representation of the dynamic interplay between commitment and creativity. My artwork evokes a sense of movement and energy, symbolizing the continuous journey toward success fueled by dedication and enthusiasm. Through my artwork, I aim to ignite a passion for personal and organizational growth, emphasizing the importance of dedication and enthusiasm in driving success. My ability to blend colors and patterns to convey complex ideas allows me to communicate the importance of commitment in a visually compelling way. My mission is to drive organizational success through unwavering dedication, recognizing the pivotal role commitment plays in achieving business goals and fostering a thriving work culture. With extensive experience in consulting, I specialize in developing strategies that harness co...

Quote found on the Internet Quote found on the Internet As a dedicated professional, I understand the significance of effective time management in the workplace. Setting clear goals and priorities is essential to achieving success and meeting deadlines. Completing tasks in a timely manner not only showcases punctuality and efficiency but also reflects professionalism and commitment to excellence. With a passion for community engagement and a proactive approach to online interactions, I strive to foster collaboration and networking opportunities within groups. By staying updated on posts and notifications, I aim to facilitate information exchange and build strong relationships among members. My expertise lies in identifying and prioritizing tasks, ensuring timely completion and maintaining a high standard of professionalism. I have successfully managed multiple projects and events, demonstrating my commitment to delivering results and exceeding expectations. All events between January ...

Insights and Strategies. Digital art created on canvas. August 3, 2024. Afrika Abney Providing Insights and Strategies are the gateway for operating and providing successful services to prospective clients. The painting of a blue background with green and black swirls is a captivating piece of digital art created on canvas. The combination of colors and swirling patterns creates a sense of movement and depth.The use of blue as the dominant color conveys a sense of calm and tranquility, while the green and black swirls add a dynamic and energetic element to the overall composition. Insights and Strategies is a platform that aims to provide valuable resources and information to individuals and businesses looking to enhance their branding techniques and stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends. Through engaging blog content, I, share my expertise in effective branding strategies and offer insights into how to create a strong personal or business brand. By connecting with like-mind...

“Orange is often associated with warmth, enthusiasm, and optimism. It can also evoke feelings of activity, perseverance, and joy. Orange is a combination of red and yellow, which may provide the same physical endurance boost as red and the mood boost of yellow.” Warmth and enthusiasm. Digital art created on canvas. 2022. Afrika Abney Vibrant orange paint brush stroke that stands out against a pristine white background. Designed to inspire creativity and enhance artistic expression, the bold hue of orange elicits feelings of warmth and enthusiasm. Orange. Digital art created on canvas. August 3, 2024. Afrika Abney This painting showcases a captivating swirl of vibrant orange paint, creating a dynamic and visually stimulating composition. The bold brush stroke adds a sense of energy and movement to the piece, while the rich hue of the orange paint adds warmth and intensity to the overall aesthetic. The striking swirl of orange paint is sure to draw the eye and spark conversation. "...

“Black is a color that can symbolize sophistication, elegance, and power.” Sophistication. Digital art created on canvas. 2022. Afrika Abney Skilled in using color to evoke emotions and enhance visual storytelling. Specializing in monochromatic paintings, I expertly render texture and shine, particularly through the use of black, to create a sense of mystery and sophistication. My keen eye for the interplay of light and shadow allows me to add dynamic elements to my work, inviting viewers to experience the tactile quality of my pieces Black. Digital art created on canvas. August 3, 2024. Afrika Abney This striking digital abstract background features a captivating contrast between a deep, rich black and a crisp. The use of black as the dominant color in this image is a powerful choice, as it symbolizes strength, power, and resilience.This digital abstract background has a deeply personal connection to the use of black as the primary color. Having grown up in the black community and att...

Earthy Tones. Digital art created on canvas. 2022. Afrika Abney Demonstrates expertise in utilizing a rich brown color palette to evoke warmth and depth, while emphasizing the intricate nuances of composition. Committed to creating sophisticated and timeless pieces that invite viewers to engage with the gradient of textures and earthy tones, from light caramel to dark chocolate. Passionate about enhancing environments through art that fosters comfort and aesthetic appeal. Brown. Digital art created on canvas. August 3, 2024. Afrika Abney Deep appreciation for the emotional power of color, particularly the earthy tones of brown, and this is evident in the way the colors are skillfully blended to evoke a sense of comfort and tranquility. The artwork reflects the richness of the natural world, with the brown tones symbolizing strength and resilience, while the red hues add a touch of vibrancy and energy to the piece. Committed to highlighting themes of strength and resilience through the...

This white paper texture background is the perfect canvas for creating beautiful abstract digital paintings. The texture of the paper provides a unique surface for applying paint, allowing for a variety of techniques and styles to be explored. The blank digital canvas is carefully examined before any paint is applied, ensuring that the surface is smooth and ready. The texture of the paper adds depth and dimension to the finished paintings, creating a tactile and visually engaging piece of art. Before I created the digital art pieces entitled: Catalyst for social change, Connect and Thrive, Cultural Awareness and Educational Foundation, I examined the digital plain canvas before applying the colors chosen to create the digital abstract painting on canvas. I create vivid canvases that serve as a powerful catalyst for social change. My vibrant colors evoke passion and calmness, sparking conversations and igniting action within communities. Through creative initiatives, workshops, and perf...

Growth, interconnectedness, and vitality. Digital art created on canvas. August 3, 2024. Afrika Abney This artwork features a harmonious blend of different shades of green and orange, symbolizing the flourishing nature of both personal and professional development. The greens represent the lushness of growth, while the oranges evoke warmth and energy, creating a visual representation of a thriving environment. The painting serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of nurturing growth in the workplace. This artwork embodies the idea that growth is not just a personal journey but a collective one, where organizations play a crucial role in meeting the needs of their employees. By fostering an environment that encourages professional and personal development, businesses can cultivate a workforce that is not only skilled but also engaged and motivated to contribute to the organization's success. “Interconnectedness is beautifully illustrated in this piece, reflecting the modern ...

Educational Foundation. Digital art created on canvas. August 3, 2024. Afrika Abney This piece, created on canvas, is not just a visual delight but a reflection of the artist's rich educational journey. My background from NationHouse, where a deep appreciation for cultural heritage was nurtured, shines through in the harmonious blend of colors. The vibrant blues evoke a sense of tranquility, while the lush greens symbolize growth and vitality, inviting viewers to explore the emotional depth embedded within each stroke. At NationHouse, I was immersed in the rich tradition of Afrikan-centered education, shaping my deep appreciation for cultural heritage. My time at Corcoran School of the Arts provided me with a solid foundation in artistic techniques and creative expression. And Bell Multicultural High School instilled in me a sense of community and diversity that is reflected in my work. The artistic techniques mastered at the Corcoran School of the Arts and Bell Multicultural Hig...

Cultural awareness. Digital art created on canvas. August 3, 2024. Afrika Abney This exquisite blue abstract painting serves as a profound representation of the intricate tapestry of human diversity and unity. The artwork features a dynamic interplay of blue and black brush strokes, each meticulously applied to create a visual narrative that resonates with viewers on multiple levels. The varying shades of blue, from the deepest navy to the softest sky blue, symbolize the rich spectrum of cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives that coexist within our global society. The artist's deliberate choice of colors and strokes invites contemplation, encouraging observers to reflect on the beauty of diversity and the importance of inclusivity in our interactions. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this painting embodies a powerful message about the significance of cultural awareness and understanding. The brush strokes, each unique yet harmoniously blended, illustrate the idea that while individu...

Connect and thrive. Digital art created on canvas. August 3, 2024. Afrika Abney This captivating digital artwork, titled "Connect and Thrive," features a harmonious blend of green paint on a green background, symbolizing growth and interconnectedness. This piece invites viewers to reflect on the importance of connection in their lives."Connect and Thrive" serves as a reminder of the power of community and shared experiences. I thrive on delivering engaging workshops and performances that connect with diverse audiences, fostering meaningful experiences. “Here are some ways to help employees connect and thrive in the workplace: Build trust: Create a culture of trust and psychological safety. Create a positive environment: Make the workplace a positive place to work.”

Catalyst for social change. Digital art created on canvas. August 3, 2024. Afrika Abney This digital art created on canvas features a vibrant combination of orange and blue, symbolizing energy and tranquility. The use of these colors aims to evoke a sense of passion and calmness, serving as a catalyst for social change. It is a commitment to leveraging art as a powerful tool for empowering the community through creative initiatives. Committed to leveraging art as a powerful catalyst for social change, I am dedicated to empowering my community through creative initiatives. “Here are some strategies that can help create social change in the workplace: empathy, values and culture. Social change in the workplace can include: closing the gender pay gap and following non-discriminatory practices.”

Diverse roles. Digital art created on canvas. August 2, 2024. Afrika Abney The essence of this artwork lies in its representation of diverse perspectives and experiences. The varying shades of purple symbolize the unique contributions that individuals bring to their work environments, reminding us that every role is vital. As you take in the abstract forms, you might find yourself reflecting on the importance of inclusivity and the strength that comes from embracing differences. This piece serves as a powerful reminder that in a professional setting, diversity is not just a buzzword; it's a source of innovation and growth. The artwork encourages viewers to celebrate individuality and recognize the beauty in varied experiences. Dynamic and detail-oriented professional with expertise in Microsoft Word, Publisher, and Excel, complemented by a strong background in gallery operations and curating art exhibitions. Proven ability in social media marketing and graphic design, with a track...

Advocacy. Digital art created on canvas. August 2, 2024. Afrika Abney The brush stroke pattern in "Advocacy" is not just a design element; it serves as a powerful representation of the artist's advocacy for creativity and expression. Each stroke is meticulously crafted, creating a rhythm that draws the eye and encourages contemplation. The layering of orange shades adds depth and dimension, allowing the viewer to appreciate the nuances of the artwork from different angles. Dynamic and accomplished professional with a proven track record in designing, directing, and coordinating educational programs and community arts initiatives for diverse audiences. Recognized for artistic contributions, including featured work on brochures and book covers, and recipient of multiple grants from the D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities. Skilled in grant research and writing. Experienced in managing high-profile arts events, festivals, workshops, and conferences, fostering communi...

Creative and dynamic. Digital art created on canvas. August 2, 2024. Afrika Abney Some colors associated with Creative and dynamic include yellow, purple, blue, red and orange. This stunning painting features a vibrant red, blue, and yellow background that immediately captures the viewer's attention. The bold choice of colors goes beyond aesthetics, as each color holds its own symbolic significance. The passionate red adds intensity and energy to the composition, drawing the eye and evoking a sense of excitement. The calming blue brings a sense of tranquility and depth to the artwork, creating a harmonious balance with the other colors. The cheerful yellow infuses the painting with happiness and positivity, radiating joy and optimism. The artist's careful selection of red, blue, and yellow creates a dynamic interplay of emotions and energies within the piece. The contrasting hues work together to create a visually appealing and emotionally engaging experience for the viewer. T...

“Digital art has a smaller environmental footprint compared to traditional art mediums, as it eliminates the need for physical materials such as paper, canvas, and paint. By embracing digital tools, artists can contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly creative ecosystem. It encompasses so many different avenues, it can be hard to break the definition down into something simple, but for our purposes, the definition of digital art is: Art made using or facilitated by software, computers, or other electronic devices. Digital art has enabled artists to unearth their creativity further. Artists can advance their work and improve their talent through new materials, mediums and techniques. Digital art has expanded the possibilities through augmented reality exhibitions and virtual reality installations, among other avenues.” I have created numerous digital abstract paintings on canvas. I frequently use my digital abstract paintings for self promotional purposes. In 1980, I was 4 year...