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!
Arma Fest has officially started today in Oil City! So, here’s the deal: on September 13th (tomorrow), we’re playing a gig. Yes, a real music gig. And yes, I, Rafi, haven’t picked up a guitar in almost a year. It’s fine. Totally fine. My hands remember what to do… probably. Worst case, I’ll just hold it dramatically and let Klee do all the heavy lifting.
The good news? Klee’s feeling better. Which means we’re slowly allowing ourselves to step back into the world of music, art, and peopling. And by “peopling,” I mean standing in front of actual human beings while attempting to appear like we know what we’re doing. (Spoiler: we don’t, but that’s part of the charm.)
It will feel amazing to watch Klee in her element doing something she truly loves. I may be all thumbs when it comes to music, but she is something magical to behold.
Our Comeback Tour (Kind Of)
This isn’t just a gig; it’s our glorious return to doing things in public. So far, the calendar looks like this:
Gallery Exhibition: Opening at Redbrick Gallery next month (with paintings, jewelry, sculptures, and surprises galore. More info coming soon!)
We’re basically doing all the things at once. Because why ease back into life when you can cannonball into it?
How We Landed This Gig
We weren’t even supposed to play this weekend. Someone canceled, and the organizers called us. Naturally, we said yes. Then we immediately started eating it up in our band marketing: “Better on the Drums—your favorite replacement band!” Hey, if you can’t laugh at yourself, you’re missing the point.
The Festival of Epicness
Now, I know you’re thinking, “That’s cool, Rafi, but what else is going on?” Answer: pretty much everything.
This weekend is ARMA Fest (Allegheny River Music & Art Festival), and it’s shaping up to be insanely epic. Think:
Live music from rap to rock to Jimmy Buffett tribute bands.
Food trucks serving pierogi, kettle corn, and whatever magic comes out of something called The Magic Bus.
Live art demos (glass blowing, caricatures, plein air painting).
Drum circles, chalk walks, poetry, and even a silent film with a live Wurlitzer organ.
And us—Better On The Drums—playing in Lindon Alley, 3–4:30 p.m.
Here’s Everything going on (see if you can find us below, I had to add our names… we are so last minute that we are not on any of the actual advertising.) You can also download below.
Basically, if you come out this weekend, you’re guaranteed to leave with a full belly, a song stuck in your head, and possibly a temporary tattoo.
Final Thoughts
Yes, I’m anxious about playing again. Yes, I’m anxious about “peopling.” But you know what? Life’s too short not to show up, make some noise, and have a blast with the creative humans around you.
So if you’re in Oil City on September 13th, come find us in Lindon Alley. Cheer us on. Laugh with us if I forget the chords. And mostly, just soak in the magic of a weekend that’s going to be unforgettable.
It’s been a long and awesome journey. Yesterday, I finally put the finishing touches on the mural at The Exchange in Oil City. You know that feeling when you cross the finish line after running a marathon… except instead of running you’ve been climbing up and down ladders, inhaling paint fumes, and making questionable life choices like “Do I really need to bend my body this way to reach that spot?” Yeah, that kind of finish line.
This mural has been a long journey—not just the two months of physically painting on-site, but the whole creative saga that started last year with sketches, designs, and me staring at the wall thinking, “Yep, that’s a big wall. Better not mess this up.”
Jeff and I discussing plans for the mural at the Exchange.
It all began when Jeff Karns approached me and said they were opening up a distillery and restaurant in Oil City called The Exchange, located in the old historic bank building. I was immediately stoked that this would be coming to our town. I already love Side Hustle Brews, and Jeff is an awesome guy. So when he asked me to take on the mural, I was deeply honored. This wasn’t just a “paint something pretty” kind of project—it was a chance to tell a story, and to help mark the beginning of something special for Oil City.
Right after I started the design, Klee got sick, which is a whole other story, but didn’t make mural creating and creativity a priority in my brain jar.
There were many renditions of the design.
A Design Born Last Year (and Reborn About Ten Times)
When I first put pencil to paper (also, stylus to tablet, because let’s be real, my erasers don’t stand a chance), the design was meant to capture the heart of Oil City and the story behind Side Hustle Brews & Spirits.
We’re talking Abu Dhabi roots, rolling Pennsylvania hills, the Oil City river winding its way through green hilltops, and 100 Seneca holding it all together. Add in history, connection, and more Pantone colors than should be legally allowed on one wall, and voilà—a mural was born.
Well… actually, a mural was born, scrapped, redesigned, revised, and finally landed on something that felt right. Because that’s how murals (and most of life) go.
Once I had a design that worked, I started on a smaller rendition of the mural on canvas
Once the painting was done, it was time to start on the big one.
STEP ONE: mark out your mural,
STEP TWO: Look at your markings and make sure it looks good from a distance.
STEP THREE: Move elements of the design to work with the actual space.
Painting = Gym Membership I Didn’t Sign Up For
Fast forward to this summer, and there I was, living in the land of paint splatters and sore muscles. A painting this big with brushes is a full-body workout. I discovered muscles I didn’t even know existed, and some of them are still holding grudges.
There is a lot of ladders involved in tall murals.
You are also going to be on your feet all day when it comes to mural painting.
But there’s also a kind of meditative magic in working that big. Standing in front of the wall every day, coaxing a story out of blank space with brushes and a whole lot of caffeine—it’s exhausting, but it’s also one of the most energizing things I’ve ever done. I’ve worked on plenty of murals in my day, but this one was one of the most challenging and pushed me out of some comfort zones.
Klee came out and helped any time she was feeling a little better.
There are over 60 portraits of real people in this mural. And anyone out there who does portrait art knows exactly how tricky and time-consuming they are. Typically, it takes me at least two weeks to complete a single portrait. At that rate, this mural would’ve taken me about two years to complete… and I don’t think Jeff was planning to keep me camped out in The Exchange until 2027.
So, I had to come up with an efficient way to tackle portraiture without losing quality. It was like speed-dating, but with faces: “Nice to meet you, cheekbones. Next!” A mix of strategy, improvisation, Klee’s emotional support, and just plain stubbornness got me through, and I’m proud to say those 60+ faces are now up there, smiling back at Oil City.
Skyler and I discussing next steps in the mural
Rockstar Status: Skyler
Now, I can’t write this blog without giving a giant shout-out to Skyler, who assisted me throughout this mural. She is, quite simply, a rockstar. Skyler wasn’t just helping paint—she was helping keep me sane. From coming up with solutions, to holding down the fort when my brain decided to go full “squirrel mode,” she was there. Honestly, I think every mural artist should come with a Skyler accessory pack: equal parts assistant, problem-solver, and all-around badass.
Skyler Is a ROCKSTAR!
The Finishing Touches (a.k.a. The Victory Lap)
Yesterday was the day—the moment of stepping back, brush in hand, and realizing: it’s done. Varnish has been applied and it looks… AMAZING!
I filled in the last little details, adjusted the highlights, and touched up those “oops” spots that only artists obsess over (and that 99% of humans would never notice). Then I stood there, grinning like a fool, because this wall that once loomed like a blank canvas now tells a story that belongs to the community.
Oil City Exchange Mural is now completed for your viewing pleasure
The Exchange is awesome! History, Art, Good Food, and Good Drinks!
Gratitude & A Little Bit of Awe
This mural is more than paint on a wall—it’s a piece of history, a celebration of connection, and a testament to what happens when you chase a big idea all the way to the finish line (and survive the ladder climbs).
I’m honored to have brought this to life for The Exchange, and I’m grateful to everyone who cheered me on along the way, Klee for being so supportive, and Jeff for being awesome to work with. And to Skyler—seriously, rockstar status achieved.
So if you’re in Oil City, swing by The Exchange at 100 Seneca Street. Grab a drink, order some food, and take a look at this big, colorful piece of our town’s story. Just don’t judge the paint splatters still stuck in my beard—I’m calling them battle scars.
Want to Paint Something Yourself?
If reading this has you itching to pick up a brush (don’t worry, no scaffolding required), join us for a Paint & Sip at The Exchange! It’s been a while since I’ve done one of these and I can tell you it is A LOT of fun!
🗓 Wednesday, September 17 🕕 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM 📍 The Exchange, 100 Seneca Street, Oil City, PA 💵 $45 per person – includes: ✔ All art supplies ✔ 2 craft cocktails ✔ Mezze platter & hush puppies (yes, we’re feeding your soul and your stomach!)
No experience needed—just bring your creativity (or curiosity), and we’ll handle the rest. 🎨🍸🍴
To reserve your spot, message us or email reservations@exchangeoc.com. Spaces are limited—so don’t wait!
We have some unfortunate news. We’re writing this with heavy hearts as we announce the cancellation of our annual virtual holiday sale, originally scheduled for December 8th. Klee’s health has been our top priority, and after months of not feeling well, it’s clear that she needs time to rest and recover. While we absolutely love spending this festive time with you—celebrating, sharing laughs, music, and offering discounts as our thank-you for your incredible support—it’s important for us to honor what’s most important right now: health and healing.
Over the last few months, Klee has been dealing with some issues, likely tied to the stress we experienced earlier this year. For a time, it seemed like things were improving, and she was on the mend. Unfortunately, the issues have recently flared up again, and we are putting a pause on everything. We are doing what we can, but at a MUCH slower pace.
Your thoughts, prayers, and love mean so much to us during this time. Thank you for being such a supportive and awesome bunch of humans. Your kind words mean the world to us.
In the meantime, we’re still determined to bring a little cheer to your holidays! To that end, we’re offering a 30% discount code: 29NSRGF9 for all the Rafi art you may have been eyeing. While jewelry orders are welcome, please keep in mind that made-to-order pieces may not ship in time for Christmas and will have to wait until Klee is feeling well enough to sit at her bench.
This sale will run until Sunday night (December 8th), so it’s a great opportunity to snag something special and help support us during a time when we would normally be counting on this event for much-needed income.
Additionally, for those who love a little inspiration throughout the year, we have 74 calendars left from our Me and It Creatures collection. These calendars are packed with uplifting messages and fun holidays, designed to brighten your days. They’re available for $25, and we’d love for you to order one to bring some joy into your 2025.
We will still announce the winners of the raffle via social media and contact them directly via email, so keep an eye out!
Please send your love, good vibes, and prayers for Klee as she continues to rest and recover. She’s in good spirits, and we are navigating this challenging time with as much grace and resilience as we can muster.
Thank you for your understanding and support. We’re so grateful for this community, and even though we won’t be hanging out live this time, know that your presence in our lives means the world to us.
With love and gratitude, Rafi and Klee
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! YOU HAVE NO IDEA WHAT IT MEANS TO US!
Due to Klee’s hospitalization and illness, we have had to cancel several shows and events for the holidays. This put us in a financial bind. Some of you asked how you can support us financially. I added this section. Thank you.
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.
Tune into our livestream on December 8th at 5 PM EST. We will announce the winners after 6 PM.
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! 🎉
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! 🍪
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.
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!
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
Upcoming Public & Virtual Events:
PATREON ONLY - The Permission Slip You Don't Need - Live Podcast Recording April 26, 2026 at 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Check Our Events Page For More Details.
Opening Reception Emergent Petals Gallery Night (Local) April 29, 2026 at 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Go To Events Page To Find Out More.
PATREON ONLY - Navigating The Valley Of Suck - Live Podcast Recording May 3, 2026 at 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Check Our Events Page For More Details.
Wine Bottle Lanterns Workshop With Rafi & Klee (ART NIGHT) May 13, 2026 at 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Go To Events Page To Find Out More.
