Category: EVENTS With Rafi And Klee

Welcome to the official events blog for Rafi and Klee Studios! This is your insider pass to all the exciting happenings and upcoming events hosted by us or that we are a part of. From captivating art exhibitions and creative workshops to live demonstrations and community gatherings, our blog keeps you updated and involved. Whether you’re looking to enhance your skills, meet fellow creatives, or just enjoy a day filled with art and inspiration, our events are designed to enrich your artistic journey. Stay connected with Rafi and Klee Studios and never miss out on the opportunity to be part of something truly special. Join us and immerse yourself in the world of creativity!

Posted on by — Leave a comment

Virtual Open Studio: Join Us for Creativity, Fun, and Amazing Prizes! Dec 8th

Ready for an evening that’s equal parts inspiring, exciting, and downright awesome? Then don’t miss our Virtual Open Studio on December 8th from 5 PM to 7 PM EST! Read to the end to find out how to enter to win something awesome!

We’re opening up our studio (virtually, of course) for a jam-packed night of stories, music, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and jaw-dropping deals on our art and jewelry—up to 40% off as our special way of saying thanks for being the incredible humans you are. Oh, and did we mention the giveaways? Yeah, we’re going BIG this time!

Why You Should Show Up

📍 Studio Tour Fun: Get a rare behind-the-scenes look at where the magic happens! From the creative chaos of Rafi’s painting space to Klee’s jewelry-making haven, we’ll share it all (including the creative shenanigans).

📖 Storytime: We’ll regale you with tales from the wild and wonderful world of art and jewelry-making. Think epic fails, surprising wins, and the kind of moments that make you laugh until your face hurts.

🎶 Music & Merriment: Our band Better on the Drums is bringing the tunes, so get ready to bop along as we share some live music vibes. Some stuff, we haven’t even recorded yet!

🎨 Exclusive Art & Jewelry Deals: Treat yourself or your loved ones to one-of-a-kind creations—marked down by up to 40% for this special night only. It’s the perfect chance to snag that piece you’ve been eyeing!

The Giveaways – Win Something Truly Extraordinary! 🎁

We’re pulling out all the stops with not one, but TWO show-stopping giveaways. Here’s what’s up for grabs:

🎉 Win a Virtual Power Chat with Rafi & Klee!

Got burning questions about art, business, or balancing it all while staying creative? Here’s your chance to pick our brains in a fun, inspiring, and actionable 30-minute virtual meeting. Whether you’re seeking advice, feedback, or just a good laugh, this one-on-one time with us is your golden ticket to clarity, motivation, and creative magic.

🎉 Win an Artist-Enhanced Print + Sterling Silver Necklace!

Double the inspiration, double the artistry! This prize features:

  • A one-of-a-kind, artist-enhanced 8×10 print by Rafi Perez, customized with his signature blend of color, emotion, and joy.
  • A handmade sterling silver Koru Spiral necklace by Klee Angelie, symbolizing new beginnings and growth.

Together, these two masterpieces will elevate your walls and your style, celebrating the beauty of art and craftsmanship.

How to Enter

  1. Go to https://rafiandklee.com/sale/live/ and enter to win, bonus points for answering the bonus question.
  2. Tune into our livestream on December 8th at 5 PM EST. We will announce the winners after 6 PM.
  3. Chat with us during the stream—ask questions, crack jokes, or share your love for art. Most importantly, have fun!

That’s it! Easy, right?

Why You Can’t Miss This

This isn’t just another livestream—it’s a celebration of YOU, our amazing creative family. So grab your snacks, your favorite beverage, and your coziest seat, and let’s make this night unforgettable. We can’t wait to laugh, share, and create memories with you.

December 8th, 5 PM to 7 PM EST—don’t miss it! 🎨✨
We’ll bring the art, music, and giveaways; you bring your awesome self. See you there! 💖

P.S. Don’t forget to share this with your friends and creative tribe! The more, the merrier! 🎉

Posted on by — Leave a comment

Exciting News: The Ribbon Cutting for the Venango County Makerspace is TONIGHT!

Come out and enjoy time with creative humans, cookies, coffee, and community—oh my! Tonight, from 4 PM to 6 PM, the 5th floor of the historic Oil City Bank building (100 Seneca St, Oil City, PA 16301) will come alive as we officially open the doors to the Venango County Makerspace!

Picture this: artists demonstrating their crafts, the smell of freshly brewed coffee mingling with the tantalizing aroma of an absurd amount of cookies, and—best of all—you get to hear me say a few words about how exciting this is!

Why I’m So Excited About This Space

Let me take a moment to gush about this building, because it deserves some love. Klee and I were lucky enough to get a behind-the-scenes tour of the renovations when we were invited by Side Hustle Brews to discuss a mural project for the space. Walking through the the old bank building, we could see the bones of its history and feel the buzz of its transformation.

I’m currently designing a mural for this incredible space, and it’s an honor to contribute artistically to a project that’s breathing new life into a piece of our town’s history. Being part of something this significant feels deeply rewarding—not just as an artist, but as someone who believes in the power of community and creativity to spark change.

And the Makerspace? Wow. It’s more than just a space in a renovated building—it’s the beating heart of something new and exciting in Venango County. It’s a place where ideas, innovation, and creativity can collide to build something greater. This project is a huge step for Oil City, and I’m beyond proud to not only have a paintbrush in this story but also to help organize this first-ever makerspace for the county.

Things are happening in Oil City and it is all very awesome.

What can you expect tonight?

  • Live Demos by Local Creatives: Get inspired watching talented makers do what they do best.
  • Coffee & Cookies: Yes, plural cookies. Enough to keep you sustained while you marvel at the creativity around you.
  • Registration Table: Make sure to sign up so you’re always in the loop for events, meetups, and workshops.
  • Behind-the-Scenes Tour: Come hear about the awesome plans we have for this space and the future.

We’re kicking things off with mighty energy—even if we’re small right now. And here’s a sneak peek of what’s coming in December (trust me, you’ll want to stick around for this lineup):

December Events and Meetups

🎨 Tuesday, December 4 | 5:30-7 PM
Sword Polishing Demonstration by Chris Osborne of Yugen Swords
Witness the art of polishing blades like a true artisan.

✏️ Thursday, December 5 | 5:30-7 PM
Drawing for Everyone
Whether you’re a doodler or a Da Vinci, this meetup is for you!

🚴 Tuesday, December 10 | 5:30-7 PM
Bike Maintenance & Riding Tips Meetup
Learn to care for your bike and ride like a pro.

🧵 Friday, December 13 | 5:30-7 PM
Fiber Arts Meetup & Crazy Quilt Block Workshop with Skylar Austin
Discover the joy of fiber arts and take home your very own crazy quilt block!

🖋️ Tuesday, December 16 | 5:30-7 PM
Writer’s Meetup & Workshop with Local Author Amanda Pica
Unleash your inner wordsmith and gain tips from an accomplished author.

🖨️ Thursday, December 19 | 5:30-7 PM
3D Printing Meetup
Step into the future of making with 3D printers, and maybe even design your own masterpiece.

What, Where, When, and Why?

What: Ribbon Cutting for the Venango County Makerspace
Where: 100 Seneca St, 5th Floor, Oil City, PA 16301
When: TONIGHT! (4 PM – 6 PM)
Why: Because creativity, community, and cookies are a recipe for awesomeness!

Come celebrate this exciting new chapter for Oil City, tour this beautifully renovated space, and see for yourself how creativity is shaping our community’s future. See you tonight, cookies in hand! 🍪

Posted on by — 2 Comments

The Mural Chronicles: Imposter Syndrome, Paint Fumes, and Magic in the Air

Let me set the scene for you. The place? Our beloved Oil City Library, which just so happens to be one of the reasons Klee and I fell head over heels for this town. It was like a magnet for our creative souls, and when Marcy—my awesome friend, phenomenal artist, and co-owner of the local gem Woods and River—approached me with a mural project for this very library, how could I say no? Spoiler alert: I didn’t. I was all in, armed with brushes and enthusiasm!

Now, before we dive into the nitty-gritty of this adventure, let me just address something that every artist reading this knows all too well: Imposter Syndrome. Yes, it’s a thing. No, it doesn’t magically disappear when you’ve been doing this art thing for years. And yes, it showed up like an uninvited guest at the mural party. Despite having done murals before, this was one of those rare times where I’d be working with a team of talented artists, and boom—there it was, Imposter Syndrome, making me question if I’d forgotten how to hold a paintbrush. You’d think I was about to go on American Idol. But hey, that’s the artist’s life: confidence is a moving target, and we just push through it and re-establish our awesomeness!

So, after a few days of prepping (because you can’t just waltz into a mural project without a plan,) and some great brainstorming sessions with the local community, we were ready. I have to give major props to the community for their ideas. From book themes to children’s book animals, everyone had thoughts, and believe me, there were enough to fill the library shelves. It was like a crowd-sourced creative explosion.

Fast-forward to mural time. It’s a mix of excitement, nerves, and just enough coffee to power a small country (thank you, Woods And River). As we started, I remembered something: murals are problem-solving on steroids. You can plan all you want, but the moment your brush touches that wall, the surface has its own agenda. It’s like the wall is silently laughing, saying, “Nice try, pal. Let’s see what you’re really made of.”

Three days. That’s how long it took for the magic to really unfold. I watched all these artists, including myself, evolve throughout the process. What started as “Oh my gosh, what am I doing?” turned into “Oh yeah, we’re doing this!”. It’s amazing how teamwork and creativity combine to bring out everyone’s best. And the mural? It’s a beauty.

For those of you who have never had the joy (and mild terror) of working on a mural, it’s basically like herding artistic geese. Paint goes here, no wait—there. Can we move this section up? Is this color too bright? And what about the sun, is it drying this paint faster than we can work? The mural becomes this living, breathing thing, and you’re just along for the ride. The magic happens when you let go of control and start solving problems with a little bit of paint and a lot of heart.

When it was all said and done, I couldn’t have been prouder. Not just of the mural itself (which, if you find yourself at the library, you better take a glance and throw up a heart symbol to it), but of the artists who showed up, put their fears aside, and gave it their all. A huge shout-out to the Oil City Library and Erie Arts and Culture for making this project possible. You guys are awesome!

In other exciting news—because there’s always more brewing around here—we’ve got a meeting tonight (9/19/24) for the upcoming Venango County Makerspace! If you’re an artist, maker, creative soul, or a breathing human, you need to be there. It’s happening at 100 Seneca St (5th floor, baby!), and we want your input. Think tools, resources, classes—this space is going to be a creative haven, and we want YOU to be a part of shaping it. So come share your ideas, and let’s make some magic happen together!

Until next time, keep laughing, keep creating, and always, always embrace the chaos—because that’s where the real magic lives.

See you at the Makerspace!
—Rafi

Posted on by — 2 Comments

Mini Monsters: My Exciting Journey of the 24 Minis Exhibition! September 7th

Hey, awesome humans and monster enthusiasts!

I’ve got some big news—and by big, I mean big for me and big for my collection of 24 adorable, slightly creepy, but definitely lovable mini monsters. That’s right, I’m officially part of the 24 Minis Exhibition at the Manos Gallery near Pittsburgh (in Tarentum), and it’s going down on Saturday, September 7th. It’s going to be a wild ride of tiny canvases and even bigger emotions, and I am beyond excited.

I’m also feeling a little nervous. (Wait, what? Me? Nervous?!) Yep, I know—totally not my usual vibe. You’d think after years of putting myself out there, showing art, making music, doing YouTube, I’d be immune to this kind of thing, right? Nope! Something about sharing my 24 mini monsters with the world at my first group show in years has me feeling like I’m about to step into the art Hunger Games, and I forgot my bow and arrow.

I’ve worked on big, bold pieces for years, but squeezing all that energy, quirk, and emotion into 6×6-inch canvases? That’s a whole different challenge. And while these little monsters are ready to show their happy, chaotic faces, I’m wondering if they’ll play nice with the other 44 incredible artists in the show. It’s like sending your kids to their first day of school—will they make friends, or will they be the weirdos eating glue in the corner? (I mean, they are monsters, after all).

Now, I know it sounds like I’m overthinking things (I probably am), but this show feels special in ways I can’t even fully explain. I have an official gallery space, I’ll be there, and I’ll be in a show surrounded by some of the most talented artists around, with my tiny monsters standing proudly by my side. And let’s not forget—I’ll have other works of art on display too, so it’s a full-on Rafi Perez takeover at Manos Gallery! (not really, it’s a big gallery.)

So, when is the opening reception?

  • When: Saturday, September 7th, from 4-8 PM.
  • Where: Manos Gallery, 320 E. 5th Ave, Tarentum, PA.
  • Why: Because you need to see these 24 tiny monsters in person! And maybe take one home…just saying.

Watch Video Here:

Also, Klee and I will be there with bells on (maybe literally, maybe not—you’ll have to show up to find out), and we’re contributing something special for the fundraiser supporting the Highlands High School theater group. It’s all about giving back and making this event as epic as possible!

I’m ready to face this tiny art challenge head-on—even if my stomach is doing a mini-monster flip every time I think about it. But honestly, that’s the beauty of being an artist, right? Putting yourself out there, feeling a bit scared, and doing it anyway. And if you’ve ever wondered if I still get nervous after all these years, well, here’s your answer: YES! But that’s what makes this journey exciting.

Klee and I will be there for the reception!

So, come on down to the Manos Gallery this Saturday. Let’s celebrate art, creativity, and community together! If nothing else, come watch me sweat through the excitement of sharing my tiny monsters with the world. I promise you—it’s going to be a blast!

See you there, and let’s make this an unforgettable night of mini art and big fun!

-Rafi

Posted on by — Leave a comment

Ready to Rock the Creative Entrepreneur Conference!

THIS EVENT HAS BEEN POSTPONED TO MAY 17th, 2025. Registration will re-open at the beginning of 2025.

Get ready to mark your calendars and set your alarms, because the Creative Entrepreneur Conference is coming in hot, and it’s going to be a wild ride of artistic inspiration, creative camaraderie, and just the right amount of coffee-fueled Creative awesomeness! 

Last year, Klee and I had the absolute time of our lives at this conference. We laughed, we learned, and we made so many cool new friends that our phones are still buzzing with messages like, “When are we doing this again?” Well, the wait is over! We’re back and better than ever, ready to drop some serious knowledge bombs and have a blast while doing it. And this time, we’re not just doing one or two workshops—oh no. We’re bringing FOUR workshops to the table, because why not go big or go home, right?

Date: May 17, 2025
Location: Education and Training Center at Pitt Titusville (504 East Main St, Titusville, PA 16354)
Time: 8am-5pm
Deadline to Register: TBD
Cost: $75 per person (includes all sessions you choose to attend, an event tote bag, and all meals and snacks!)

What to Expect?

Imagine a day jam-packed with creativity, networking, and practical tips that will supercharge your artistic journey. From the moment you walk through those doors at 8am—yes, we know it’s early, but trust us, the coffee will be flowing—you’ll be surrounded by fellow creative souls all eager to level up their game.

We’ve got workshops that will help you turn your passion into profit, from pricing your artwork (yep, we’re spilling our secrets) to mastering the art of social media without losing your sanity. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, there’s something here for everyone. Along with the schedule below, a delicious lunch will be provided at noon! 

(TENTATIVE) Workshop Lineup:

9:30-10:30am:

  • Workshop #1: Website & eCommerce Strategy with Alexis Rhoades (She rocks!)
  • Workshop #2: Pricing Artwork with Rafi & Klee
  • Workshop #3: Bookkeeping/Sales Tax with T & T Admin Services

10:45-11:45am:

  • Workshop #1: Self-Promotion (Artist Statements/Bios) with Marcy Hall (We LOVE Marcy!)
  • Workshop #2: Marketing/Social Media/Branding/Logos with Rafi & Klee

1:15-2:15pm:

  • Workshop #1: Funding/Grants/Opportunities with Erie Arts & Culture (They’re AWESOME!)
  • Workshop #2: Photographing Your Work with Rafi & Klee

2:30-3:30pm:

  • Workshop #1: Galleries/Retailers with Wendy Neckers (Beautiful work and beautiful gallery!)
  • Workshop #2: Fairs/Festivals/Booth Displays with Rafi & Klee
  • Workshop #3: Business Strategy/Planning with Bridgeway Capital (They are such an awesome resource!)

3:45-5:00pm:

  • Networking/Opportunities with regional artists/art-related organizations (light refreshments provided)

Remember, workshops are on a first-come, first-serve basis, so if there’s something you’re dying to learn, make sure to sign up early! We don’t want you to miss out on your top picks. And speaking of picks, each person must register separately, so grab your spot before they fill up!

Why Should You Be There?

Aside from the fact that we’ll be there and we can’t wait to hang out with you (seriously, we’re psyched!), this conference is a golden opportunity to hone your craft, meet like-minded creatives, and maybe even find that missing puzzle piece you’ve been searching for in your creative business. Plus, who doesn’t love a good tote bag full of goodies, right?

Whether you’re in it for the tips, the networking, or just the snacks (we won’t judge), this event is going to be one for the books. So, bring your ideas, your questions, and your best “I’m ready to conquer the world” attitude. We can’t wait to see you there, laugh with you, learn with you, and most importantly, have a ridiculously fun time while doing it.

So, what are you waiting for? Sign up, show up, and let’s make some magic happen together. See you on September 14th!

P.S. Don’t forget to register by September 9th! Because nobody likes a last-minute scramble, especially when there’s creativity to be unleashed.

Stay awesome,
Rafi & Klee

P.S. here’s a little more info on the workshops Klee and I will be doing:

Pricing Artwork (9:30-10:30am): This one’s a biggie! We’ll dive into the art (and science) of pricing your creations. If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a piece you’ve poured your soul into and wondered, “What on earth do I charge for this?”—this workshop is for you. We’ll share our strategies, tips, and a few funny stories about our own pricing misadventures to help you find that sweet spot where art meets value.

Marketing/Social Media/Branding/Logos (10:45-11:45am): Let’s face it, social media can be a jungle, but it’s a jungle we can conquer together! We’ll cover everything from creating a cohesive brand to using social media to connect with your audience (without losing your mind in the process). Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to level up, we’ve got you covered.

Photographing Your Work (1:15-2:15pm): In this visually driven world, a picture is worth a thousand likes—uh, we mean dollars! We’ll walk you through the essentials of photographing your work to make it shine online and in print. From lighting tips to composition tricks, we’ll show you how to capture your art in its best light (pun intended).

Fairs/Festivals/Booth Displays (2:30-3:30pm): Ready to take your art on the road? We’ll share our experiences and tips for setting up killer booth displays that draw people in and make your work stand out at fairs and festivals. We’ll cover everything from booth design to customer interactions, so you’ll be ready to rock your next event like a pro.

So, if any (or all) of these sound like your jam, make sure to snag your spot and get ready for some serious learning and fun. We can’t wait to see what you create next!

Posted on by — 4 Comments

The Art of Quitting Your Own Band… Four Times Before Breakfast

You know that feeling when you’re getting ready for something big, and every fiber of your being is screaming at you to quit? Well, this morning, I quit my band Better On The Drums about four times before I even had my coffee. And yet, here I am, getting ready to face the music—literally—at the Curb Market in Oil City today at 2-4 PM.

Over the years, I’ve become pretty comfortable speaking in front of people. Hard to believe, right? Especially since, well into my thirties, I had crippling social anxiety. The kind that makes you break out in a cold sweat at the thought of saying “hello” to a stranger. Yet somehow, I’ve found myself doing speaking engagements, showing off my art, and even running a YouTube channel. If you told the old, anxiety-ridden me that this was my future, I would have laughed nervously and then promptly locked myself in a bathroom stall.

So, what’s my secret to becoming more outgoing? It’s simple: I stopped caring about what other people think. Seriously, that’s it. The more I embraced who I really am, the more comfortable I became putting myself out there. Now, I can talk about my art, share my thoughts on YouTube, and speak to a room full of people without wanting to crawl under a rock. I even bought my dream home, which is a whole other story.

But there’s one area where my old friend anxiety still loves to rear its ugly head—playing music in public. For some reason, when I step up to perform, my knees turn into Jell-O, and I seriously contemplate taking up something less terrifying, like maybe base jumping.

This morning, as I was packing up for our gig, I could feel that nervous buzz in my body. You know, the kind that makes you want to hide under the covers and pretend the world doesn’t exist? Yep, that one. And so, I quit. Then I un-quit. Then I quit again. I think at one point, I might have fired myself from the band altogether. But each time, I knew deep down that I couldn’t let the anxiety win.

Here’s the thing: I want to beat this fear. So, Klee and I book these public gigs, not because we’re masochists (well, maybe a little), but because it’s the only way to face the fear head-on. So, despite my multiple resignations this morning, I’ll be there at the Curb Market today, squirming my way through the set. I can’t promise it’ll be a flawless performance—there’s a good chance I’ll hit a wrong note or two—but I can promise that I’ll be taking yet another step towards overcoming this lingering fear.

So, if you’re in the area and want to witness the spectacle of a man battling his own neuroses in real-time, come on out! Enjoy the music, check out the farmers market, and watch me sweat it out. It might just be entertaining… for you, at least.

And who knows? Maybe by the end of the set, I’ll have only quit the band six times. Progress, right?

See you there!

Rafi

When: 8/22/24 At 2-4 PM EST
Where: 2 Central Ave, Oil City, PA 16301
What: Performance by Better On The Drums
Why: Because it will be entertaining, to say the least.

LISTEN TO OUR MUSIC: https://rafiandklee.com/rafi-and-klee-music/

Posted on by — 9 Comments

Panic Mode: Preparing for “Echoes Of Imagination” at The Manos Gallery

Hey there, awesome humans!

So, guess who has an upcoming solo exhibition at The Manos Gallery? Yep, it’s me! I’m beyond excited to announce that my latest collection, “Echoes Of Imagination,” will be on display starting July 11th, and we’re kicking things off with a reception from 4 PM to 8 PM. Mark your calendars, because it’s going to be an evening of art, inspiration, and (hopefully) an artist who had time to shower.

Now, let me paint you a picture (pun totally intended) of what’s happening in my studio right now. Imagine a scene from a high-octane action movie: paint flying everywhere, brushes in a chaotic dance, and me in the center, desperately trying to complete last-minute pieces like my life depends on it. The only thing missing is a dramatic soundtrack and a few slow-motion explosions.

Why do I always end up creating new pieces right before a show, you ask? Great question! Let’s just say it’s part of my creative process – I thrive on the adrenaline rush of last-minute inspiration. Plus, it gives me a great excuse to ignore my email inbox and live off takeout for a few weeks. (If the local pizza place knows me by name now. Is that a good thing? Asking for a friend.)

But in all seriousness, I couldn’t be more thrilled about “Echoes Of Imagination.” This collection is incredibly special to me, and I can’t wait to share it with you all. Each piece is designed to empower and inspire, and I hope that when you see them, you’ll feel a spark of power and wonder in your own life.

The reception on July 11th is going to be a blast. Not only will you get to see my latest works, but we’ll also have a chance to chat, laugh, and maybe even share a few artistic secrets. (Spoiler alert: One of my “secrets” is drinking VERY strong coffee. Shocking, I know.)

So, come on down to The Manos Gallery at 320 E 5th Ave, Tarentum, PA, and join me in celebrating this crazy, wonderful journey of art and imagination. And if you see me at the reception looking a bit covered in random paint, just remember – it’s all part of the artistic charm. Or at least that’s what I tell myself.

See you there! And in the meantime, if you need me, I’ll be in my studio, wrestling with canvases and trying to remember where I put whatever I was holding in my hand five minutes earlier.

Stay awesome!

– Rafi

P.S. If you happen to have any tips on how to get acrylic paint out of your beard, I’m all ears.

What:
“Echoes Of Imagination” – A solo art exhibition featuring the empowering and inspiring works of Rafi Perez. This collection showcases Rafi’s signature style, blending vivid colors, intricate patterns, and profound themes to captivate and inspire viewers.

Where:
The Manos Gallery
320 E 5th Ave, Tarentum, PA 15084

When:
Reception: July 11th, 4 PM – 8 PM
Exhibition Dates: July 6th to July 27, 2024

JOIN FACEBOOK EVENT PAGE AND LET US KNOW YOU ARE COMING (CLICK HERE)

Why:
Because it’s going to be an awesome time! “Echoes Of Imagination” is more than just an art exhibition; it’s a celebration of creativity, empowerment, and inspiration. Rafi Perez’s latest works invite viewers on a journey through the depths of human emotion and imagination. This exhibition provides a unique opportunity to connect with the artist, explore his creative process, and be inspired by the transformative power of art. Join us to experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Manos Gallery and to support and celebrate the arts in our community.

Posted on by — 1 Comment

EKPHRASIS: Writers And Artists – Gallery Reception Sunday

Hi Awesome Humans and Creative Souls,

Guess what? We’ve got something truly special brewing this weekend in Foxburg, and you won’t want to miss it. We are buzzing with excitement to be a part of The Red Brick Gallery exhibition: “EKPHRASIS: Writers Responding to Artists.” This isn’t just any art show—it’s a fusion of visual art and poetry that promises to ignite your imagination and touch your soul. This is an experience I’ve never had with my art and I’m stoked… can you tell?

Event Details:

  • Exhibition: “EKPHRASIS: Writers Responding to Artists”
  • Location: Red Brick Gallery, 17 Main Street, Foxburg
  • Reception and Poetry Reading: Sunday, 4-6 p.m.
  • Concert: Becky Buller and her band, following the reception

What’s Happening: “EKPHRASIS” is where visual art meets the written word. They’ve gathered the works of 15 incredible visual artists (myself included) and paired them with talented writers from the Bridge Literary Arts Center. These writers have crafted beautiful poems inspired by the artwork, creating a unique experience that blends two forms of artistic expression.

By the way, I had to look up “EKPHRASIS”—turns out it’s an ancient Greek term that means describing a piece of visual art in words. Who knew? Now we’re all a little smarter!

The curator, Jason Lewis, kicked off this brilliant idea with poet Phil Terman from the Bridge Literary Arts Center. They envisioned connecting their audience with a broader range of artists and writers. With the help of co-curator Barbara Pierce from Arts Oil City, they reached out to artists from the Roycroft collective, the Northwest Pennsylvania Artists’ Association, and the artist relocation program in Oil City. This is going to be epic!

Meet the Dynamic Duos of Poets and Artists:

  • Brady Buchanan with Karl Jacobson’s “Coal Tipple”
  • Raymond Gerrard Bugay with James Stewart’s “Young Poet”
  • Cory Childs with Richard Sayer’s “Weary Christ”
  • Cindy Eckert with Andrew Hazelton’s “Gliding”
  • Austin Gray with Kathe Umlauf’s “Screech Owl”
  • Aster Grim with Marcy Hall’s “World Bearing Turtle”
  • Byron Hoot with Keith Hileman’s “Autumn”
  • Tracy Lander-Garrett with Jamie Hunt’s “October Sunrise with Fog Rolling Downstream”
  • Garth Porter with Mary Hamilton’s “Journey”
  • John Miller with Greg Clary’s “Bashful Cow”
  • Barbara Rumore with CJ Hurley’s “River Alpha”
  • Deborah Sarbin with my own (Rafi Perez’s) “Source of Happiness”
  • Juanita Smart with Anne Cutri’s “Sun Drenched Vineyard”
  • Phil Terman with Mike Hoover’s “One of the Apples”
  • Patricia Thrushart with Julia McCray’s “Peekaboo Moon”

Why You Should Be Here: Because it is awesome, and you’re awesome… Sooooo. Truth is, adding poetry to a gallery experience isn’t just cool—it transforms the way you see and feel the artwork. Jason stated that this exhibit aims to build connections and celebrate the diverse creative talents flourishing in our region. And man, it’s going to be one heck of a celebration!

Redbrick Gallery Hours (For those that can’t make the reception):

  • Fridays: 1 to 6 p.m.
  • Saturdays: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Sundays: Noon to 5 p.m.

Come Join the Fun: We can’t wait to see you at the Red Brick Gallery this Sunday. Klee and I will be there with bells on… Well, that’s not true, but we will be wearing clothes, so that’s good. Come for the art, stay for the poetry, and enjoy a fantastic bluegrass concert by the award-winning Becky Buller and her band. It’s going to be a night of creativity, inspiration, and community. This is going to be awesome! 

See you there!

Rafi Perez

Posted on by — 10 Comments

Oh Crap Sale: An Unexpected Heartfelt Offer

Hey everyone, Rafi here! Brace yourselves, because I’m about to dive headfirst into the deep end of vulnerability.

So, gather ’round, because here comes the “Oh Crap” tale of Rafi and Klee’s Grand Adventure in Homeownership. A couple of years ago, we leapt into our dream house. It’s fabulous—really, it’s everything we wanted. But, as life loves to keep things spicy, it tossed us a few curveballs. And by curveballs, I mean unexpected repairs and a few… let’s call them ‘less-than-stellar’ decisions on our part, in a mad dash to reopen the studio.

One of those decisions involved a plumber who turned out to be more of a magic act—poof—and there went a good chunk of our money. I haven’t talked much about that episode because, well, embarrassment doesn’t even begin to cover it. One day you have a savings account, and the next, you’re staring at the financial equivalent of a black hole.

Yep, that’s right —the big goose egg. Our bank account decided to emulate my early art career: utterly, beautifully empty.

But hey, life’s a quirky little journey, isn’t it? Despite these hiccups, we’ve managed to claw our way back towards stability these past few years. Plus, we’ve had the immense joy of providing a safe haven for my daughter, turning our house into a family home. That’s been the silver lining amid the chaos of plumbing nightmares and fiscal vanishing acts.

But just as we were enjoying this new improving stability, the crap hit the fan last month. Now we find ourselves in this weird limbo where opportunities are on the horizon, but right now we are in a standstill.

As much as I’m not usually the “Sale! Sale! Sale!” kind of guy—seriously, I’m more the “Art! Art! Art!” type—these past weeks have been a crash course in the fine art of unpredictability. Being an artist, I’m no stranger to the rollercoaster ride of creative business: the thrilling highs, the nail-biting lows, and those weird loop-de-loops where you’re not sure if your coffee is still in the cup or if it’s actually paint water.

January through June? They’re our annual “Where did everyone go?” months. Normally, we’d have a nice cushy buffer saved up, built from the fat months to cushion the lean ones. Well, this year, our buffer decided to go on a vacation—without us. Yep, no buffer, no backup, just good ol’ fashioned winging it.

Introducing the “Oh Crap Sale”

In light of our current pickle, we’re kicking off the “Oh Crap Sale.” We’re offering a whopping 35%-40% off all original art and jewelry. Now, I know what some of you might be thinking — sales can sometimes feel a bit impersonal, right? But I want to assure you, this isn’t just about numbers for us. It’s about connection. Well, in this case, it is a little about the numbers. Something that is really important to us is that you purchase something that speaks to your heart and not just arbitrarily buy something. As much as we would appreciate it financially, we want you to enjoy the experience and walk away feeling fulfilled.

USE COUPON CODE: GET35 – for 35 percent off original art and jewelry.

USE COUPON CODE: GET40 – for 40 percent off original art and jewelry.

More Than Just a Sale

This sale is a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported us through the years. Whether you’ve followed our journey, shared your energy, or brought our work into your homes, you’ve been with us. This sale, albeit born from necessity, is another way of expressing our gratitude.

A Nudge for Dreamers

If there’s ever been a piece of art or a unique piece of jewelry you’ve eyed in our collection, this might be the perfect time. Maybe this sale is the nudge you need to finally own something that speaks to you, something made with passion and love.

Supporting Us Further

We’ve been touched by messages from fellow creatives and supporters who’ve asked how they can contribute financially beyond purchasing art. To make it easier, we’ve added a section on our website where you can directly support us. Every bit helps, and we are immensely grateful for your generosity and kindness.

Give To Our Mission

We Want To Inspire Creatives To Be Who They Are Meant To Be!

On a Personal Note

Honestly, putting our work on sale due to financial stress brings up a lot of mixed feelings. Over the years, Klee and I have poured our hearts into creating inspirational and motivational content for artists. Facing financial instability triggers that imposter syndrome many of us are all too familiar with. The truth is, crap happens and sometimes you have to roll with the punches.

Here’s what I keep telling myself — reaching out isn’t a sign of failure; it’s a sign of strength. It’s about being real and embracing vulnerability as part of the creative journey. I’ve always tried to be as authentic as possible, but I also know I have a REALLY hard time asking for help. As you can imagine, I have deleted this message about 14 times, but I made a promise to be real. The truth is, Klee and I are having a difficult financial moment and selling some of the hundred works of art I have would help.

Thanks for listening, for supporting, and for being part of this adventure. If any of the pieces call out to you, or if you just want to share some love below in the comments, we’re here, and we’re grateful.

With all the creativity and love I can muster, Rafi

P.S. The “Oh Crap Sale” is on from now until the end of May 5/31/24. Again, thank you so much.

Posted on by — 2 Comments

Join Me For This Awesome Workshop April 17th

Hello, beautiful creatives humans! I’m so excited about the upcoming workshop I have the honor of co-hosting. Your canvas awaits, and the world is ready to see what you create. Let’s make it happen.

On April 17th, in collaboration with Erie Arts and Culture, I’ll be diving deep into the heart of what it means to captivate your audience and transform your passion for art into a thriving, sustainable business. This workshop is more than a learning experience; it’s a chance to connect, grow, and step into the light as the creative you were meant to be.

Why am I so thrilled about this event? Well, it’s simple. Creativity is not just my profession; it’s my passion, my life’s work, and my way of connecting with the world. Over the years I’ve discovered not only the power of creativity but also the profound impact of sharing knowledge and empowering fellow artists. This workshop embodies that spirit of sharing and growth.

We’ll explore the essentials of making your art business a success, from captivating your audience to mastering the business aspects that many artists find daunting. But here’s the thing—it doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right tools, knowledge, and mindset, you can turn your art into not just a career, but a thriving business that reflects your unique vision and voice.

What can you expect from this workshop? A blend of fun, practical insights, and actionable strategies tailored for artists at any stage of their journey. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your art career to the next level, this workshop is for you. You’ll leave feeling inspired, equipped, and ready to tackle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Workshop Details

What: Working Artist 101 Workshop Series with Rafi Perez

When: Wednesday, April 17 · 6:30 – 8:00 PM EDT

Where: Raymond M Blasco, MD Memorial Library, 160 East Front Street Room 219, Erie, PA 16507

Why: Because it is going to be awesome!

Workshop Hosts

So, don’t let this opportunity slip away. Spots are filling up quickly, and I want to see YOU there. Click the link below to secure your spot now and join us for an evening that promises not just to enlighten but to transform.

Register on Eventbrite

Together, let’s unlock the secrets to making your art and your heart shine. See you on April 17th!

A Little More About Working Artist 101 Workshops

Working Artist 101 is a workshop series that teaches creative entrepreneurs foundational skills for building sustainable businesses. These workshops use hands-on exercises to allow participants to learn at their own pace. Sit in for one session or attend them all!

After participating in Working Artist 101, entrepreneurs will be prepared to take full advantage of business incubator programs like Bridgeway Capital’s ErieMade, complete strategic projects with the Beehive Network, and apply for grant support through Erie Arts & Culture and the Erie County Redevelopment Authority, among others.

Classes will be held from 6:30pm-8:00pm in Blasco Library’s Room 219 and virtually over Zoom.

• Wednesday, March 20 Career Planning
• Wednesday, April 17 Engaging Customers + Selling
• Wednesday, May 15 Recordkeeping
• Wednesday, June 5 Funding + Grantwriting
• Wednesday, July 17 Portfolio Development
• Wednesday, August 21 Time Management

https://www.facebook.com/ErieArtsandCulture

Register for all 6 workshops for $100, or for $20 per workshop. Participants who register for the entire Working Artist 101 curriculum may “audit” courses from ErieMade. We ask that you please register in advance to allow time for workshop materials to be prepared. If cost is a barrier to your participation, please contact Erie Arts & Culture staff.

This program is presented in partnership with Bridgeway Capital. Bridgeway’s ErieMade Business Academy is a cohort for creative entrepreneurs that offers 1:1 consulting and weekly group learning sessions on essential topics for businessowners, including marketing, financial literacy, and legal considerations.

Erie Arts & Culture will use Bridgeway Capital’s Impact Measurement System to collect participant data and track program impact through regular progress reports. The IMS is part of a statewide initiative to track the impact of public and private investments in creative small businesses.

Erie Arts & Culture thanks Springboard for the Arts for providing free access to their Work of Art: Business Skills for Artists, a comprehensive professional development curriculum which informed the development of Working Artist 101.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT ERIE ARTS AND CULTURE AT https://www.erieartsandculture.org/