Aberjhani

Aberjhani, born Jeffery J. Lloyd, is an American poet, writer, and columnist, recognized for his blog articles on literature and politics. He co-authored the Encyclopedia of the Harlem Renaissance, which received an academic award, and authored The River of Winged Dreams. His early life in Savannah, Georgia, was followed by studies in journalism and creative writing at various colleges. Aberjhani also served in the U.S. Air Force, gaining experience in human relations and continuing his writing.

His literary career began under the adopted name Aberjhani, which he states came to him in a dream. He was co-editor of the Savannah Literary Journal and a literary reviewer for the Georgia Council for the Arts. His national recognition grew significantly with publications in ESSENCE Magazine, where his poems appeared regularly, making him a well-known poet in the United States. Aberjhani has indicated that his influences stem more from literary movements like Modernism, Surrealism, and the Black Arts Movement than from individual authors.

Aberjhani's creative output is shaped by a broad spectrum of literary movements rather than exclusive reliance on individual authors. He has cited influences such as Modernism, Surrealism, the Beats, the Black Arts Movement, Postmodernism, and Existentialism. This eclectic foundation suggests an engagement with diverse philosophical and artistic currents. His co-authorship of the Encyclopedia of the Harlem Renaissance highlights a deep interest in this pivotal 20th-century cultural and intellectual movement. The inclusion of authors like Albert Camus, W.E.B. Du Bois, and Jean-Paul Sartre in his list of influences further points to an engagement with existentialist and critical race theories, alongside explorations of African American intellectual history and literary traditions.

Beyond his literary achievements, Aberjhani has also ventured into visual arts, debuting with photographic documentation of Hurricane Matthew's impact on Savannah. He later developed a unique artistic technique and body of work known as 'Silk-Featherbrush Artstyle.' His visual art has been featured in publications and book covers, showcasing a multi-disciplinary creative approach. In parallel with his artistic pursuits, Aberjhani has been a proponent of humanitarian causes. He founded Creative Thinkers International to foster nonviolent conflict resolution and has supported global peace initiatives. His involvement includes advocating for social justice, such as the renaming of a bridge with racially charged historical associations, and contributing to educational projects focused on compassion and human rights.