Guess what’s making this year absolutely, positively, undeniably awesome? Drumroll, please… Rafi Limited Edition special calendars! Can I get a virtual high-five? I’m practically bursting with excitement because these calendars arrived and are next level. Seriously, they’re so fantastic that even I, the mastermind behind prior years’ calendars, am blown away.
I’ve been pacing around like a kid on Christmas morning waiting for these beauties to arrive, and when I finally got my hands on them, oh boy, it was like holding a slice of heaven. The quality is off the charts, and I can’t wait for you to experience the calendar magic.
Before I dive into the calendar extravaganza, let me take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to all you wonderful souls who’ve already snagged one of my calendars. You guys are awesome! Your support means the world to me, and I can’t thank you enough for embarking on this creative journey with me.
ALL CALENDARS WILL SHIP BY DECEMBER 11th
Now, let’s talk calendar shipping dates! Klee and I are currently in full-on calendar-packing mode. It’s like a calendar assembly line, and we’re loving every minute of it. We’ve already started shipping! Yup, the calendars are making their way to your doorstep as we speak. The last grouping of Calendars will ship on December 11th, you will receive a tracking number via email.
If you’re still on the fence about getting one, here’s your friendly nudge – there are only 20 calendars left! That’s it, just 20. And because I’m feeling extra festive, I’ve extended the sale until December 9. It’s your last chance to grab a slice of “Rafi” for 2024.
But wait, there’s more! For that extra dose of motivation, I’ve thrown in a signed poster. Something to jazz up your space and keep those creative vibes flowing throughout the year. It’s like having a pocket-sized muse, minus the awkward conversations.
Also, mark your calendars (pun intended) for December 9 at 5 pm Eastern because we’re throwing a virtual art show extravaganza! This event will be full of live music, a tour of the Sunflower House art studio (yes!), and of course, plenty of stories and art to keep your creative juices flowing. We will be sharing links soon!
Thank you, thank you, thank you for making this year incredible. Hanging out with you and growing as an artist has been an absolute blast. Here’s to an exciting and awesome 2024 – let’s make it memorable together. See you at the virtual show!
Hey, fabulous folks of Oil City Pennsylvania, and beyond! I’ve got some exhilarating news that will add a splash of color and creativity to your Sunday plans. Drumroll, please… This November 26th, from 11 AM to 4 PM, get ready to immerse yourself in a dazzling celebration of local talent during the Artists Sunday extravaganza!
If you’re wondering what Artists Sunday is all about, let me break it down for you. It’s the perfect remedy for post-Thanksgiving and Black Friday madness. This Sunday is dedicated to supporting the incredible artists and art businesses right in your community. Say goodbye to generic gifts and hello to one-of-a-kind treasures crafted by the hands of your very own local artists.
Picture this: paintings that speak to your soul, jewelry that sparkles with personality, ceramics that redefine elegance, books that transport you to other worlds, prints and cards that are practically works of art themselves, mesmerizing photography, toe-tapping music, and beautifully illustrated books that are simply irresistible. The best part? All of these gems will be up for grabs, and they’re waiting for you!
Artist Sunday In Oil City PA 2023
But wait, there’s more excitement to unfold in Oil City! Although Klee and I won’t be showcasing our own masterpieces from 11-4, we’ve got something equally thrilling lined up. Brace yourselves for a mind-blowing special effects makeup presentation starting at 4:30 PM in the Great Room at the National Transit building (206 Seneca St, Oil City, PA 16301). Why, you ask? Well, our incredible friend Kaleb Lewis, an extraordinary make-up artist, is leading a make-up course for some seriously talented artists. Get ready for a face-off style showdown, where Klee and I, along with the awesome judges John Bernstein and Nick Hess, will be critiquing the magic just like on the hit show!
I can’t contain my excitement – it’s like I’m living a dream! So mark your calendars and make your way to Oil City between 11 AM and 4 PM. The entire town, from the north to the south side, will be buzzing with open studios and artists’ pop-ups. Feel free to explore the artistic wonders displayed in local businesses or dive into the creativity housed within the artist studios in the transit building.
Kaleb Lewis And His Awesome Make Up
And here’s the grand finale – at 4:30 PM, witness the spectacle as the special effects makeup presentation kicks off. It’s going to be an absolute blast, and I can guarantee you won’t want to miss it!
MAP OF ARTISTS SUNDAY
So, whether you’re a seasoned art connoisseur or just looking for a unique holiday experience, make Artists Sunday your destination. Join us in Oil City for a day filled with creativity, community, and pure artistic joy. Trust me; it’s going to be an event to remember! #ArtistsSunday #OilCityArtistry #CreativeFestivities
Artist Sunday In Oil City PA 2023
WHAT: Artist Sunday WHERE: OIL CITY, PA (Downtown Area and National Transit Building) WHEN: 11/26/2023 1-4 and 4:30 PM WHY: Because it’s awesome! Find out More Information on Arts Oil City Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/artsoilcity/
As I type out this blog post, I find myself in a different state of mind than usual. Normally, I’m all about positivity, and I tend to share the bright side of life. But today, I want to talk about those times when things don’t go as planned. You start thinking about your own life in the grand scheme of things and can easily find yourself focused on everything that is going wrong. Recently, we took a big financial hit, and the thoughts of our current financial situation have been dominating my brain jar.
Klee and I are what you would call, workaholics. Although our work is fun and creative, we have also put other aspects on our plate that can spiral out of control. This year, we set out to make our lives a little easier, so we could focus on what really matters to us. That has been challenging.
We started the year out by creating our own membership site. The initial idea was to make life simpler, to step away from Patreon, and to streamline our creative community endeavors. However, what actually happened was quite the opposite. The site brought a barrage of glitches and challenges, which only added to my workload. The plan was to simplify, but it seemed we inadvertently complicated things. That being said, it was my fault. As a self-proclaimed workaholic, instead of going the simple route with our membership community, I went crazy and added way too much.
This situation has led me to ponder the financial aspect of our journey. You might think that someone as dedicated as Klee and I, who work tirelessly on our creative pursuits, would be swimming in money. But, the reality is, that our jam-packed schedule doesn’t always leave us with the time to sort out our finances. It’s more like we’re constantly putting out fires, and this chaotic existence doesn’t exactly align with our desire for a simpler, more balanced life.
As October comes to an end and November approaches, I reflect on the whirlwind of activities that transpired. In just one month, we conducted our first artist masterclass workshop, we are about to release a song and a music video, and I introduced my limited edition artist’s calendars. On top of that, our daughter is moving in this week, which has brought its own set of preparations, emotions, and challenges.
We want to be as supportive as possible. It’s easy to do that when you are not focused on the financial dip your bank account has taken for the month. Life is undoubtedly smoother when you’re not just scraping by, but right now, we can only provide emotional support for our daughter as she transitions out of college and decides her path in life. We want to be a positive influence in her life, but the struggles we are focused on can be overwhelming and less than motivational.
Here’s the thing, despite these challenges, I know that I’m standing in my own way when it comes to feeling better about this stuff. This isn’t the first time we’ve faced such a situation; it’s a familiar place for us all at some point. The key, I’ve come to realize, is to keep your head up and your heart open to possibilities.
Amid the chaos and financial worries, we must remind ourselves that opportunities and possibilities are always nearby, if not right in front of us. Our power lies in focusing on what is working, on the things we can do, and on cherishing the moments we have.
When I take a step back and assess this year, I see so many things going right. We’ve built a fantastic online community, our daughter’s exciting new chapter is about to begin, we had a successful artist’s workshop, we’re releasing a stunning music video, and we’ve created a life that we both love. I’ve created beautiful art, we’ve made new friends in our new town, and we’ve found a home that we adore. Life could be worse, a lot worse. It’s really just a matter of perspective.
Yes, life doesn’t always go according to plan, but that’s just the nature of life itself. Instead of worrying too much, let’s savor the moments, enjoy life, and focus on what’s going well as much as you can. In the grand scheme of things, resilience and gratitude can pave the way for a brighter future. Trust me, I’m not just quoting some shit I’ve read, I’ve lived it, time and time again.
So, as I wrap up this outpouring of random thoughts, I leave you with this: Consider where your focus lies. Challenges will always arise, but life, at its core, is a series of moments to be cherished. If you are reading this, then you are here right now, living it. Embrace your life, enjoy it as much as you can, things will go wrong, but things will also go right. Make the most of it all.
JOIN US FOR A FUN-FILLED DAY OF CREATIVE EXCELLENCE! An Opportunity for All Creatives – Artists, Performers, Writers, Musicians, Artisans, and hobbyists – to Learn How to be a badass in your creative business. Join us on October 10th, 2023, for this full-day workshop. The event has passed, but you can watch the free masterclass below.
Are you an aspiring or seasoned artist or creative with dreams of running a successful creative business? Do you want to demystify the complex world of art marketing, art sales, pricing, and more? Look no further! We’re thrilled to announce our upcoming full-day workshop that will provide you with the essential knowledge and tools to take your artistic journey to the next level.
This FREE (Supported by a grant from Erie Arts & Culture, with funds from the National Endowment for the Arts) workshop is designed to help creatives master the business of being full-time creatives.
We are Offering Two Ways To Join Us For The Workshops:
Session 3 – Marketing Yourself Creatively Online and Offline
Session 4 – How to Maximize Your Web Presence
Session 5 – Capitalizing On Your Creativity
PRESENTERS:
Rafi Perez
Rafi Perez is a seasoned artist and author who has successfully navigated the world of creative entrepreneurship. With years of experience in the art industry, Rafi has honed his skills and developed a deep understanding of what it takes to run a thriving creative business. He is the author of “The Rogue Artist’s Survival Guide Series,” a comprehensive resource that shares invaluable insights and strategies for artists looking to succeed in the art world.
Klee Angelie
Klee Angelie is a multi-talented artist known for her work in jewelry, music, and sculpture. Her diverse creative background brings a unique perspective to the workshop, offering attendees insights into different facets of the art world. As a co-presenter, Klee will share her experiences and expertise in various creative endeavors. Her insights into pricing, showcasing, and marketing art, both online and offline, will provide attendees with valuable strategies to enhance their creative businesses.
PARTNERS AND SPONSORS:
Special thanks to The Oil City Library, Core Goods, Woods and River Coffee, And of course, a big thank you to the sponsors of this event: Supported by a grant from Erie Arts & Culture, with funds from the National Endowment for the Arts.
People often ask me, “What inspires you and your art?” It’s a question that requires a deeper understanding of the creative process. While renowned artists like Picasso, Warhol, or Dali may appear to be obvious sources of inspiration, the truth is that their art, in itself, doesn’t inspire me. Rather, it is life and the experiences it offers that fuel my creativity. On this dreary day, I want to share some rambles on inspiration and how the stuff of life shapes our artistic endeavors.
Creative Inspiration Is An Interesting Beast
When we create, it comes from within us, where we observe, absorb, and reflect on our emotions and reactions to the world around us. It’s the essence of life itself. While I may draw inspiration from various sources, the tapestry of existence truly moves me. Allow me to elaborate.
Last year, I embarked on a road trip to attend my daughter’s wedding in Illinois. Due to the pandemic, it had been years since we had seen our family, making this journey even more special. As we traveled, those moments in the car allowed me to decompress and fully embrace the anticipation of reconnecting with loved ones. It was a mix of excitement, mental preparation, and the knowledge that we would experience something truly significant.
Connected To The Universe By Rafi Perez
Arriving at our destination, we were greeted with conversations, smiles, and all the interactions that make up our lives. These moments, whether joyful, heated, or melancholic, are the stuff of life. They inspire us, shape us, and teach us valuable lessons about ourselves and what we aspire to become. The art we create becomes an expression of our unique perspectives on the world and the things we often take for granted.
In a fast-paced, busy world, it’s easy to let life pass us by. We become focused on destinations and overlook the beauty of the journey itself. However, it is precisely in those small moments, the instances of triumph and joy, and even the heartaches, that we find inspiration. These experiences enable us to overcome obstacles and grow as individuals. Feeling our way through the world is the key to unlocking innovation and creativity.
I’m Born With It By Artist Rafi Perez
The Power of Authenticity & Perspective
In a society that often encourages us to suppress or hide our feelings, we must realize that our emotions are a powerful expression of our authentic selves. By embracing our feelings, we allow ourselves to be fully present and in tune with the world. It’s essential to understand that hiding our emotions equates to hiding who we are and how we perceive the world.
Perspective shapes our experiences and influences how we perceive the world. I refuse to let external conditions dictate my ideas of what it means to be successful. Instead, I immerse myself in the process of creation, cherishing the moments spent creating. It’s a reminder that our focus should be on the things that bring us happiness and fulfillment, rather than dwelling on what we lack or wishing for something better.
Becoming Tree Of Life Necklace Ocean Jasper 14k Gold Filled Klee Angelie Jewelry
From Struggle to Empowerment
In my own journey, there was a time when I wished for a better life, feeling trapped by circumstances that seemed less than ideal. But at some point, I realized that if I wanted change, I needed to take control and create the life I desired. Through risk-taking and embracing vulnerability, I started to build something amazing. And the message I want to share is that if I can do it, anyone can. We can all live a creative life, find happiness, and continue moving forward, even in the face of challenges. In your vulnerability, you will find authenticity.
Living authentically means embracing who we are and being present in every moment. It means recognizing that our thoughts, ideas, and emotions matter. When we express ourselves genuinely, whether through art, music, or other creative outlets, we invite others to connect with our unique perspective. It’s a powerful way to inspire and resonate with those who encounter our work.
Aquamarine Drop Necklace Sterling Fine Silver 18k Gold by Klee Angelie Jewelry
In a world that often pushes us to be constantly striving for more and overlooking the “now”, it’s crucial to remember that inspiration lies in the moments we experience and the emotions we feel. Life itself is the greatest source of inspiration for artists. By embracing the journey, feeling our way through the world, and living authentically, we unlock our creative potential and find fulfillment in the beauty that surrounds us.
So, the next time you find yourself caught up in the busyness of life, take a moment to pause, look around, and appreciate the simple joys. Embrace the moments, both big and small, and let them fuel your creative spirit. Remember, you have the power to shape your own perspective and create a life filled with beauty, purpose, and inspiration.
I can’t even explain how excited we are to be a part of this event. In all my time as a working artist, I have never seen such an authentic demonstration of wanting to help our local creative community. Not only will this conference be extremely valuable to creatives, but it will also be fun.
Creative Entrepreneur Conference An Opportunity for Creatives – Artists, Performers, Writers, and Artisans – to Learn How to be Better Entrepreneurs. May 20, 2023
Calling all artists, performers, writers, and artisans in Northwestern Pennsylvania! Are you ready to take your creative business to new heights? We are thrilled to share an incredible opportunity with you. The Creative Entrepreneur Conference, scheduled for May 20, 2023, at Pleasantville Camp, is designed to empower and equip creatives with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive as entrepreneurs. With a diverse lineup of sessions and esteemed presenters, this conference promises to be a game-changer for your artistic ventures.
Expanding Horizons: The Creative Entrepreneur Conference aims to bring together professionals, organizations, agencies, service providers, and practicing artists under one roof. This convergence of expertise and passion creates a unique platform for learning and growth. Whether you’re just starting or looking to elevate your existing business, this event offers invaluable insights and best practices for success.
The Power of Knowledge: The conference agenda is packed with concurrent sessions led by experts in their respective fields. These sessions cover a wide range of topics that are essential for creative entrepreneurs. From understanding intellectual property and copyright to mastering bookkeeping and taxes, branding, marketing, online sales, and participating in fairs and festivals, you’ll find guidance on every aspect of running a successful creative business.
Prominent Presenters: Among the remarkable presenters, we’re particularly excited about the sessions hosted by us – Rafi and Klee Studios. However, this conference brings together many creative business owners and organizations. As owners of their own successful creative studio, and creative organizations, they will share their expertise on marketing, social media, and pricing art, as well as opportunities for creative growth. Their insights will undoubtedly inspire you to find the perfect balance between profitability and creative fulfillment.
Rafi Perez Live Seminar
Opportunities Galore: One of the highlights of the conference is the exploration of various opportunities available to creatives in Northwestern Pennsylvania and beyond. From residencies and teaching opportunities to co-ops, exhibits, festivals, and organizations seeking performers, you’ll discover a wealth of prospects to showcase your talent and expand your network. The session will be led by Ashley Fosbrink, Kylee Mader, and Barbara Pierce, who will guide you through the numerous avenues waiting to be explored.
Networking and Exhibitors: The Creative Entrepreneur Conference offers the ideal setting to network with like-minded individuals and potential collaborators. In addition, the event features several exhibitors, including the Allegheny National Forest Artist in Residence Program, Elk County Council on the Arts, Erie Arts and Culture, and the Wilds Cooperative of PA. Engaging with these exhibitors will open doors to even more opportunities and resources tailored to support your creative endeavors.
Registration Details: We understand the importance of making this opportunity accessible to as many individuals as possible. Thanks to a grant secured by the Forest County Business Alliance from the USDA – Rural Development Rural Business Development Grant Program, the cost to attend the entire conference, including meals, is just $75 per person. However, space is limited, so we urge you to secure your spot promptly.
To register, simply visit the online registration form and complete the process by May 18, 2023. Payment can be conveniently made via credit card. Don’t miss out on this chance to unlock your creative potential and take your business to new heights!
The Creative Entrepreneur Conference is a one-of-a-kind event that brings together creatives from across Northwestern Pennsylvania for a day filled with knowledge-sharing, networking, and inspiration. With a wide range of sessions and esteemed presenters, this conference provides a golden opportunity to learn how to thrive as a creative entrepreneur. Take the leap, register today, and embark on a transformative journey to elevate your artistic business to new heights!
For anyone who cannot make it, I will be recording the Rafi and Klee workshops and releasing them to our rogue community site members. More details on that soon.
We are super excited to announce something for our music lovers! We are set to drop our latest musical creation on April 28th, 2023. Titled “Fools (I Fold My Underwear),” the song promises to be a playful and introspective journey that showcases how weird we all are… Especially Klee… She’s super weird.
Here is a 20-second preview of the song:
Klee and I have been creating music together for several years and have been looking forward to having our music room set up and releasing new music. We are finally set up and ready and will be putting more focus on releasing new songs more often. Some of you know this, but this is a passion that Klee has had since she was a little girl singing into a hairbrush and rocking out to a hot pink boom box.
We are told that we have a unique sound that creates an experience that is both familiar and fun. With “Fools (I Fold My Underwear)”, Klee pushes the boundaries and explores new sounds and ways of expressing herself.
On April 28th the song will release on Spotify, Apple Music, Pandora, Amazon Music, And other platforms. We will also be premiering our music video (yes, I said music video!) on Youtube at 6 pm Eastern, where we will join you in the live comment section. Click below to join us.
The song reflects on the self-imposed tasks that come with trying to find oneself in a world that can often feel short on time. The lyrics are introspective, touching on themes of time, love, and enjoying life. The song is infused with a playful energy that will leave listeners feeling uplifted, happy, and laughing.
Klee has always been known for her attention to detail, and “Fools (I Fold My Underwear)” is no exception. Every aspect of the song has been carefully crafted to create a cohesive and immersive experience.
The song opens with a catchy bassline that sets the tone for the rest of the track. Klee’s smooth vocals enter soon after, painting a picture of a person wondering if folding their underwear is poor time management. The song is infused with a sense of playfulness and self-awareness.
Admittedly, this song is an infectious earworm, and we hope you absolutely enjoy and love it!
Some of our music fans have been eagerly awaiting the release of this song ever since we played it during one of our live streams. We think “Fools (I Fold My Underwear)” promises to be worth the wait. The song is a perfect example of Klee’s ability to create thought-provoking and uplifting music that remains lighthearted and fun. It is a celebration of the human experience, flaws and all. Hope you join us in that celebration.
It’s been a whirlwind since we moved to our new town. Between running our art business, volunteering, and making repairs, Klee and I haven’t had a chance to catch our breath. We were in desperate need of a reset. Luckily, with winter, we have had some much-needed downtime. We needed to get organized.
Despite feeling a bit out of place since our move, we’ve tried to stay involved in art-centric events and help out wherever we can. But there is only so far one can push themselves. Recently, we’ve faced a new challenge, which caused me to reflect a little. In facing challenges, we have been called resilient over the last couple of years, and I wanted to dig a little deeper.
Klee At Black And White Ball -Posing With Wings I Built.
Resilience is the ability to recover from difficult situations, adapt, and bounce back when life throws curveballs our way. It is a critical trait to possess when unexpected events happen at any time. Resilience can mean the difference between giving up or pushing through the suck.
So, the question is, have Klee and I always been resilient? The answer is no. We may have survived many situations in the past, but we were not always resilient. To be honest, I think we can thank “being artists” for our resilience. So how did we develop resilience? Why is it that we persist instead of giving up?
One way to develop resilience is by being organized. Having a flexible system and being proactive about managing our lives has helped us handle difficult situations better.
When we are organized, we can more easily identify what is essential and what is not. By putting our priorities in order, we can ensure that we spend our time and energy on the things that matter most. Being organized can also help us to be more efficient, allowing us to accomplish more with less stress.
Most Recent Challenge
That was a big problem for us before, during, and after the move. Changing our lives so drastically threw a wrench into the systems we had in place. With every new obstacle, things seemed to become more and more overwhelming. That is why it is important to take as much time as you need to put things where they belong. Being out of whack is no fun, trust me.
Another way to develop resilience is by working smarter. This comes with getting organized. We can all benefit from taking a step back and reassessing our actions. Sometimes, we get caught up in the routine and don’t realize that we are making things more complicated than they need to be. By examining our processes and identifying areas where we can improve, we can streamline things and make them more manageable. This can reduce stress and make it easier to bounce back from setbacks. Cutting the fluff makes a difference in how you approach your days.
Rafi and Klee Studios
All that being said, even when we are organized and working smart, life can still throw us curveballs.
Unexpected events like storms, repairs, financial problems, or accidents can disrupt our plans and overwhelm us. In those moments, it’s important to remember that resilience is not about being invincible. It’s about being able to weather the storm and bounce back afterward. As artists, our entire career is built on resilience.
Here are some tips on how we stay resilient in the face of adversity:
Take care of yourself: When we are under stress, it’s easy to neglect our physical and emotional needs. But taking care of ourselves is crucial for building resilience. Eat healthy foods, get enough sleep, and make time for exercise and relaxation.
Rafi and Klee Relaxing.
Lean on your support system: Don’t try to go it alone. Reach out to family and friends for support, or seek out a support group. Talking to others who have been through similar experiences can be comforting and help us to see that we are not alone.
Focus on what you can control: In difficult situations, it’s easy to feel helpless. But focusing on what we can control can help us to feel more empowered. Identify the things that are within your control, and focus on those. This allows you not to waste time thinking about things you can’t control that make you feel overwhelmed.
Practice gratitude: It sounds cheesy, but this step is essential. Getting caught up in what’s going wrong is easy, but focusing on what’s going right can help us develop a more positive outlook. Your brain chemistry changes when you do this, allowing you to think more clearly.
Learn from setbacks: This is life. We are going to experience roadblocks and setbacks. It can be frustrating and discouraging, but it can also be an opportunity for growth. Take time to reflect on what you can learn from the experience and how you can use that knowledge to improve in the future.
What a mess …lol.
Listen, resilience is essential in a world of inevitable change and uncertainty. By being organized, working smarter, and caring for ourselves, we can develop the resilience we need to weather the storms of life. Remember to lean on your support system, focus on what you can control, practice gratitude, and learn from setbacks. With this, we can bounce back from just about anything.
It’s been a rollercoaster since we moved to this new town, but I’m excited to see where it takes us. Persistence spawns resilience, and resilience gives birth to focusing on what is going right in life. I’m excited to see what new adventures we’ll have and what new people we’ll meet. But most of all, I am excited to be alive on this adventure called life.
It’s that crazy time of year again where everywhere you go you are inundated with joyful music and surrounded by ugly sweater colors. If there is anything we all want to do a little less of is deal with holiday shopping. I don’t know about you, but I have never been a big fan of Black Friday. I’m not knocking it, I know some people who look forward to it as if it were some kind of treasured holiday. However, I don’t like traffic, crowds, lines, and fighting over parking spots. I prefer to be in the warmth and calm of my own home and enjoying a little spiked eggnog and relaxation.
To be honest with you, this whole year has been crazy. We moved a year ago and we are just now starting to catch up and get the art studio fully open and organized. We’ve had our ups and downs this year, and we have had some rough patches. We have also had amazing wins and new adventures. What we have accomplished blows my mind, but I am looking forward to hibernating a bit during the winter months.
After our move (which was nightmarish since the moment of the leak that ruined the old studio) we did not slow down. We moved an entire art studio and our few personal belongings, made repairs and dealt with a large plumbing issue, released new music for distribution, fixed the electrical in the house, built our media studio, furnished the house, hung a track system for art throughout the house, released new books, setup the art studio, set up the writing room, and held a two month long exhibition at graffiti gallery. Needless to say, we are REALLY looking forward to some relaxing (and spiked eggnog).
However. We want to do something special and share our home with you. We wanted to open the studio up to you guys again. Last year on December 11th, we had our first and only virtual open studio from the sunflower house. I remember announcing so many awesome creative plans for 2022. Instead of everything taking place in one catch-all room, we actually expanded our creative spaces. The art studio itself was not up and running yet when we went live so there was no tour. This year we want to show you where we are. There still a lot to do, but we want to share it with our online Rogue family!
So, this Sun December 11th 2022 at 5 PM EST we are inviting you to tune in to our second LIVE STUDIO EVENT in our new home. This is a casual affair where we will show some art and jewelry, tell some stories, give a tour, answer some questions, and play some music. We are also giving away $200 worth of prizes and also some ridiculous discounts as a big “thank you” for being there and supporting us through this craziness. Click on this banner to go to the page and enter the giveaway, we’ll announce winners during the stream.
This is going to be so much fun! I hope you can make it!
WHAT: Rafi & Klee Virtual Open Studio WHEN: December 11th at 5 PM EST- 7ish WHERE: ONLINE HERE- https://rafiandklee.com/live/ And chat with us on YouTube. WHY: Because we are going to have a blast!
Klee and I are still at it! We have taken over Graffiti Gallery and we are not ready to let it go! That’s right! We are extending our show through September in Oil City at 210 Seneca St, Oil City, PA 16301.
Rafi and Klee are both extending their shenanigans at Graffiti Gallery in Oil City PA. They are showcasing all the art they love to create. This includes paintings, jewelry, sculptures, books, music, and more. They also want to invite creatives and forward thinkers to come out the first weekend in September and discuss where we are all heading in this amazing town and ways to get there. Come and find a retrospective of Rafi Perez’s paintings, sculptures, and Klee Angelie’s jewelry and creations. Come hang out and talk about life, listen to music, look at some art, and have a blast. The show runs through the month of September on Fridays from 4-7 and Saturdays from 11am-2pm. The gallery will also be open for private appointments, contact Rafi and Klee to schedule your private tour.
The show will run through September and each day will feature art creations and fun. The show is meant to inspire and delight and we plan to have a lot of fun while we are there. We look forward to meeting the amazing people of this community!
Sept 2nd (4pm-7pm) and 3rd (11am-2pm) – The Rogue Artist Book ReadingsAnd Discussions About Revitalization.
Come and meet Rafi and Klee at their first two month long art exhibition in their new town. Enjoy art, jewelry, music, and more at the exhibition’s extended run. Drinks and a fun atmosphere will be provided. Come ready to have a good time and talk about being a rogue! Rafi will read his favorite passages from his books throughout the day, he will also talk about their efforts in the revitalization and plans for their beloved town of Oil City and the region. If you are a rogue and are excited about this area please be there. The biggest enemy of innovation and progress is apathy, but there is a way to combat it and move forward despite the challenges. They will also hold a question and answer and brainstorm session throughout the talk. He will also sign books if asked throughout the day.
Sept 9th (4pm-7pm) and 10th (11am-2pm) – Live Paintings And Creations Throughout The Day.
Come out and spend some time with Rafi and Klee and experience art experimentations and creations. Including but not limited to live painting, jewelry, and music writing. Enjoy conversations about their travels, art, and why they moved to this amazing area and their plans moving forward. Also, Rafi will be demonstrating painting on his spinning easel throughout the days and creating something special for his new home town that will be given away to a lucky winner at the end of the exhibition run. Come in and get a free raffle ticket.
Sept 16th (4pm-7pm) and 17th (11am-2pm) – Music Concert – RAFI’S REDEMPTION TOUR!
Our Band Is Called Better On The Drums
Enjoy some art and some great conversation and some music practice during the day. Rafi experienced his first live performance and botched it the whole way through (well, that’s how he feels) and is hoping to make a strong comeback and blow the minds of anyone there brave enough to listen. The concert will start on Friday at 5pm and Saturday at 12pm. This laid back concert will be like hanging out with two friends while they sing and play guitar.
This will be the second time ever that we perform as “Better On The Drums” our new band. Witness Rafi be nervous again on stage… or will he be?
Sept 23rd (3pm-8pm) and 24th (11am-2pm) – Let’s Get Uncorked! And Finally Say Goodbye.
Enjoy some art and great conversation during the day and come downtown for the wine walk. They say people love buying art when they enjoy wine so we are hoping to capitalize on the phenomenon. Well maybe. However, you know what else works with wine? Great conversation! This will also be the final weekend of the show (we promise) and we’ll be saying goodbye.
Oil City Uncorked Happens on Friday, September 22, 4:30 – 8:30 pm in downtown Oil City (north side business district). Sample from 10 regional wineries (plus a sprinkle of spirits & brews) located at various host businesses within walking distance! Participating vendors: Allegheny Cellars Winery, Black Dog Wine Company, Cart/Horse Distilling, Country Hammer Moonshine, Deer Creek Winery, Emlenton Brew Haus, Fat Chad’s Brewing, Fractured Grape/Novosell LLC, Groundhog Winery, Happy Hour Winery, Starr Hill Vineyard & Winery, Twisted Vine, Two Birch Winery, Webb Winery, and The Winery at Wilcox.
Light refreshments will be available at host businesses, plus downtown restaurants will be open for regular dining. Souvenir tasting glass included with ticket. Oil City Uncorked is for ages 21 & over, valid ID required on event day.Tickets are available online through this link (processing fees apply), at the Oil City Library, 2 Central Avenue, and at Core Goods (starting 8/31/22), 219 Seneca Street. Proceeds benefit the downtown revitalization efforts of the Oil City Main Street Program.
Upcoming Public & Virtual Events:
Pumpkin Painting Create & Sip Party With Rafi And Klee October 21, 2026 at 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Go To Events Page To Find Out More.
When Things Get Spooky - PATREON Live Podcast Recording October 25, 2026 at 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Visit Our Calendar Page For More Details.
Opening Reception: Wild & Whimsical November 4, 2026 at 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Go To Events Page To Find Out More.
Opening Reception: Neon Nostalgia Art Exhibition November 4, 2026 at 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Visit Our Calendar Page For More Details.
