This year has been one for the books. It’s been full of surprises, growth, and a whole lot of creativity. After our mandatory health hiatus, Klee and I are finally getting back into the swing of things, and it feels incredible.
We’ve got our gallery show running in Foxburg, we just wrapped up an awesome Paint and Sip, we’re helping bring the Venango County Makerspace to life, I finished a large mural, we’ll soon be teaching art in a school (Yes really!), and I’ll be releasing my book at the end of this month. Oh, and our event calendar is filling up!
And now… we’re leading a Pumpkin Painting Party!
(Oh—and if you can’t make it to this event, stick around until the end of this post because we’ve got something special planned for all our out-of-towners.)
Now, you might be thinking, “Wait, Rafi, aren’t you guys award-winning artist with international collectors and a wall of accolades? What are you doing leading a pumpkin painting party?”
Yes. We are all those things. But here’s the truth: taking yourself too seriously is the death of creativity. Fun brings it to life.
Klee and I love having fun, and honestly, there’s no better way to keep the creative energy flowing than by doing something lighthearted, messy, and festive! Like painting pumpkins while sipping on your favorite drink.
Besides, we love Halloween. And when you mix Halloween, art, and good company, you get the kind of party that reminds you why creating is supposed to be fun.
After the huge success of our last Paint & Sip at The Exchange, we’re back for another round—this time, with pumpkins!
Art Night at The Exchange! Pumpkin Painting Party!
📅 Wednesday, October 22 at 6:30 PM 📍 The Exchange, Oil City, PA 💲 $30 per person (includes your mini pumpkin, all supplies, and 2 drinks)
We’ve only got 20 seats, so once they’re gone, they’re gone!
Bring your friends, sip, paint, and leave with your very own pumpkin masterpiece (and maybe a few great stories to tell).
Because at the end of the day, it’s not about being serious—it’s about being creative, connected, and a little bit ridiculous in the best way possible.
A Little Advice for Creative Humans
If there’s one thing this year has taught us, it’s that creativity thrives when you stop trying to control it. Life will throw curveballs like health issues, deadlines, surprises… but the spark never truly goes out. It just waits for you to stop overthinking and start playing again.
So paint something ridiculous. Try a project that doesn’t “fit your brand.” Teach a kid’s art class. Paint a pumpkin. Write something silly. Dance around your studio.
Because creativity isn’t about perfection, it’s about presence. When you stop chasing “important” and start chasing joy, that’s when the magic happens.
👻 For All Our Out-of-Towners
For all of our creative humans who can’t make it to Oil City. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! We’ll be going live on Halloween (October 31st) from 5:00–5:45 PM for a spooky stream, where we’ll be sharing our own real-life stories of running into the paranormal and strange happenings while on the road. Mark your calendar and keep an eye out for the link!
We’ll grab a favorite beverage, light a candle, and create a little Halloween mischief from afar.
It’s finally happening. After a long (and slightly chaotic) journey, Dear Artist, Don’t Give Up: Letters from a Rogue is officially preparing for release at the end of October! The formatting is complete, the cover is ready, and I’m double-checking everything before I hit that magical publish button.
This book has been through quite an adventure with me. I had every intention of releasing it earlier this year, but when Klee fell ill, I put everything on the shelf and focused on what mattered most… Klee. Now that she’s feeling better (and back to her awesome self), it’s game on.
From pre-release copies to final edits, this book has been my companion through some wild ups and downs. I poured everything I’ve learned, fought through, and laughed about as a creative human into these pages. It’s raw, funny, honest, and a little kick-in-the-butt motivational.
The softcover will (hopefully) be out before Halloween, because nothing says “spooky season” like finally finishing a project you started forever ago. The audiobook will follow later this year, as soon as I can afford to grab more ISBNs and pay for the copyright. (Seriously, ISBNs are such a racket.)
What’s Next
I already have another book in the works, and all I’ll say for now is that it’s going to be badass. I’m keeping quiet on details until it’s closer to the finish line, but trust me, it’s worth the wait.
The Giveaway
To celebrate the upcoming release, I’m doing a special giveaway! One creative human will receive a signed, pre-release special edition of Dear Artist, Don’t Give Up. It’s the last of its kind, and it’s already signed, packed with good vibes, and waiting for its new home. Click this banner to go to the page to enter the giveaway:
STAY TUNED!NEW GIVEAWAY COMING SOON!
I’ll be announcing the winner on October 29th, so keep an eye out and fingers crossed that day. Also, Join us for our book release party on Oct 30th!
Final Thoughts
This book is a love letter to every artist who has ever questioned their path … and a reminder that you’re not alone in the chaos, doubt, or the quiet moments of triumph. It’s been a long road to get here, but I can finally say: we made it.
Four years ago, on October 12th, Klee and I were doing something absolutely chaotic and magical… loading up a U-Haul with all our worldly possessions, two exhausted but hopeful artists barreling toward a new chapter in Oil City, Pennsylvania.
We were running on coffee, adrenaline, and faith — trying to make it in time for the closing on our new home, affectionately known as The Sunflower House. That same date this year marks both our gallery opening reception at the Red Brick Gallery (October 12th, 4–6PM) and our comeback to the creative scene since Klee fell ill. Our official 4 year anniversary of the closing is Oct 15th which will probably be spent tucked away in our studio.
The Creative Playground We Call Home
Since that wild moving day, our home has transformed into a living, breathing creative playground. Every wall holds artwork, music gear, instruments, sketches, and ideas waiting to happen. We’ve played music gigs, hosted book signings, set up multiple exhibitions, and met some of the most incredible creative humans.
Klee sitting in our new Livingroom 4 years ago. We had one chair for furniture lol.
This is what it looks like now as a gallery space
Our “creative playground” is a wild mix of recording space, art studio, gallery, and coffee-fueled think tank… and we wouldn’t have it any other way. The energy here feeds creativity like sunlight feeds plants (or maybe like strong coffee feeds Rafi).
Why We Love It Here
Oil City and the region has this kind of magic that can’t be faked. The art community here is vibrant, scrappy, and real, filled with people who make things because they can’t not. We’ve made friends who inspire us every day and have found endless support for the weird, wonderful, heartfelt stuff we create and do.
We still miss our creative rogues in Pensacola, that long-distance family of creatives who will always have a special place in our hearts, but we’ve found a new home… with seasons (… Seasons are important).
The Struggles & The Strength
Like any big move and life overhaul, there were struggles. We’ve dealt with broken plumbing, creative burnout, the kind of financial scrapes that make you question your sanity, and this past year, Klee’s health struggles, which made us slow down and refocus on what really matters.
But through it all, we’ve learned to adapt, trust, and create anyway. That’s our motto. Every obstacle became a story, a painting, or a song. Every challenge made us stronger and more grateful for the life we’re building together… one brushstroke, lyric, and laugh at a time.
Back Out There Again
Now that Klee’s feeling better and life’s rhythm is smoothing out, it feels amazing to be back out in the world connecting, exhibiting, and performing again.
So mark your calendars and come see us at our Red Brick Gallery Opening Reception on October 12th, from 4–6 PM. It’s going to be a celebration, not just of art, but of resilience, love, and this amazing creative journey we’ve been on for the past four years. Here’s a sneak peek:
This morning, I woke up sore in places I didn’t even know could get sore. Yesterday was all about hauling, climbing stairs, rearranging, standing back, moving things again, and finally landing on a layout that felt right. Setting up for a gallery exhibition is equal parts art and Tetris, and yesterday Klee and I were in full-on puzzle-solving mode.
Over the past month, we’ve been in nonstop creation mode with new paintings, new jewelry, new displays, and stacks of promotional material hot off the printer. Walking into the space yesterday, we knew we wanted to fill it with not just art but also atmosphere, beauty, intrigue, and little sparks of curiosity at every corner.
Looking around now, I can say we did it. From the vibrant Me and It creatures greeting you at the door, to the bold portraits staring back with quiet intensity, to Klee’s handcrafted jewelry catching the light just right. Every wall and shelf feels alive. The red brick walls, tall windows, and lace curtains of the gallery set the perfect backdrop, making each piece breathe.
COME SEE THE SPACE TODAY AND HANG OUT WITH US
Today (Oct 3rd, 2025) we’ll be at the gallery for a soft opening from 2pm to 5pm. A soft opening is like the calm before the party: a laid-back meet-the-artist vibe where you can sip something, chat with us, and watch us fuss over last-minute tweaks while snapping more photos to capture the show. After a month of working balls-to-the-wall, this is our chance to exhale and say, “It’s done. It’s up. It’s alive.”
If you’re in the area, we’d love for you to stop by. It’s a much more intimate way to experience the exhibition than the big reception coming up on October 12th (that one will be a full-on celebration). Yesterday was the hard work. Today is about enjoying the beauty we’ve built.
Klee is so excited!Here’s some art!More art!More art!And more Art!Some more art!More art!REDBRICK GALLERY RAFI AND KLEE SHOWREDBRICK GALLERY RAFI AND KLEE SHOWREDBRICK GALLERY RAFI AND KLEE SHOWArt and jewelry!Some more art and jewelryREDBRICK GALLERY RAFI AND KLEE SHOWWe filled the jeep up all the way to transport the show. I’m amazed at how much fit in there.This is SO epic!
It feels surreal to even type these words: we are getting ready for our exhibition at the Red Brick Gallery. This will be our first large exhibition since Klee was hospitalized last year, and for us, it marks an official comeback.
We were actually invited to exhibit last year—before the chaos, before hospital visits, before murals, before everything turned upside down. At the time, we thought, “Great, we have a whole year to prepare.” You can probably guess how that turned out. Between studio downtime, hospital visits, and the marathon mural project, time has a way of vanishing.
But here’s the thing—we’re no strangers to crunch time. When the studio calls, we roll up our sleeves, fire up the creativity, and get to work. And as always, we’re not just working—we’re aiming to blow people away.
The Space & The Town
If you haven’t been, the Red Brick Gallery is stunning. We went out to measure and walk the space, and let me just say, it’s one of those rare gallery settings that makes you stop and breathe for a minute. Light, history, charm—it’s all there.
We took a tour of the Red Brick gallery and it is a large space
It is perfect for a combined exhibition with both of us
And the town of Foxburg? Straight out of a postcard. I honestly can’t wait to see it when the leaves are changing—golden, red, and glowing against the river. It feels like the perfect backdrop for an exhibition that means so much to us.
We felt like we were standing in a Hallmark Card
Behind the gallery is a secret garden, I thought it would be perfect for an out door event in the future
Klee is always identifying plants wherever we go lol
The Work
Klee has been at her jewelry bench, working with a spark I haven’t seen in months. Watching her create again has been one of the most uplifting things in this whole journey. Meanwhile, I’ve been flinging paint with reckless abandon (okay, maybe a little less reckless, but you get the picture).
We’ve set some aggressive goals for the amount of work we want to show, because this isn’t just about filling walls—it’s about filling the space with life, energy, and soul. There will be paintings, jewelry, sculptures, and some surprises we’re saving for the receptions.
This makes me SO HAPPY!
I have several paintings I am trying to finish for the show
The Schedule
Soft Opening: Friday, October 3rd, 2–5 PM
Official Opening Reception: Sunday, October 12th, 4–6 PM
Closing Reception: Sunday, November 9th, 4–6 PM
I’ll Be Posting More Information For Each Reception!
The exhibition runs from October 3rd to November 9th, and one thing we’re doing differently this time is continuing to create during the run of the show. That means the exhibition will evolve—new pieces will show up, and by the closing reception, you’ll see fresh work alongside the originals.
Both the October 12th and November 9th receptions will be preceded by ARCA concerts, which makes the day a double celebration of music and art. I’ll be posting more about that awesomeness!
📍 Red Brick Gallery 17 Main Street Foxburg, PA 16036
Why This Matters
We’re excited for a thousand reasons:
Klee is feeling better and back at her bench.
We have new, never-before-seen creations ready to debut.
The location is gorgeous and inspiring.
We’re back in the studio, working with renewed energy.
This show feels like a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the beautiful weirdness of life.
We are so excited about this show!
At the end of the day, life throws curveballs none of us can plan for—but the antidote is always the same: inspiration and love. Those two things are the best medicine for life’s little surprises, and we’re grateful to be creating from that space again.
For Our Distant Friends
We know not everyone can make it out to Foxburg, so we’re planning to release a video so you can share in the exhibition from wherever you are.
For now—save the dates, mark your calendars, and if you’re nearby, come out and celebrate with us.
I’ve been meaning to update you on what’s been going on with us lately. I’m sure you may have noticed—we’ve been much more active online and starting to get back into the groove of things.
As most of you know, last December Klee was hospitalized, and we spent most of the year just coping with that. It was scary, exhausting, and one of the hardest stretches we’ve faced. I’m happy to say she is doing much better now, and we’re slowly but surely getting back out there.
We had to pull out of a gallery due to distance while Klee was on the mend
The Mural Adventure
This year, I dove headfirst into a mural project that kept me busy for months. It wasn’t just about painting on a big wall—it was about telling a story through portraits, landscapes, and history. It pushed me physically and mentally, but the challenge also reminded me why I love what I do. Seeing that mural come to life after so many sketches, designs, and late nights was one of those “yep, this is worth it” moments.
That wall seemed impossible at first
Baby steps is what got me there
August: A Turning Point
It feels like things really started returning to normal in August. Our last event before everything turned upside down was a book fair late last year—and this year, full circle, our first event back was a book fair. From there, the momentum picked up: I finished the mural, and we got more involved in co-managing the new Makers Space here in Oil City. That space has the potential to be something amazing for the community, and we’re excited to be part of helping bring it to life.
Book Fair is always a blast
Opening up the maker’s Space for one of our weekly creative meet-ups
Back to Music and Art
After a year off, Better On The Drums played our first music gig at ARMA Fest. Honestly, I hadn’t picked up a guitar in nearly a year, and Klee was just starting to feel like herself again, so it was equal parts terrifying and exhilarating. But once we got up there, it was like breathing again. Music is such a huge part of who we are, and being on stage reminded us how much we missed it.
I was rusty, but Klee is always on point
I also led my first Paint and Sip in Oil City—right in the same space where I created the mural. It was wild to see that room transform from me on scaffolding covered in paint to a group of people laughing, creating, and sharing their own spin on the canvas.
The paint and sip was so much fun!
And now, we’re getting ready for a gallery exhibition running from October 3rd to November 9th at the Redbrick Gallery in Foxburg. It will feel so good to see the paintings, jewelry, and sculptures all come together in one space again. Plus—we’ve got three more shows booked for later this year.
Investigating The Red Brick Gallery in Foxburg
Taking measurements of the space
What’s Next
The show in Foxburg is coming up, and the long-overdue release of Dear Artist, Don’t Give Up is finally happening in October (yes, for real this time!). We’re also bringing back our yearly virtual holiday show, which we had to cancel last year when Klee got sick. And we’ll be resuming the Podcast and YouTube channel soon—something we’ve missed doing so much.
Klee at work in the studio getting ready for the exhibition
Me doing the same
Thank You
I just want to take a moment to thank all of you out there for your support. I’m not gonna lie—it was a rough year. But reading your comments, seeing your messages, and feeling your love was priceless. You carried us when we needed it most.
A Little Creative Tip Before I Go
If this past year has taught me anything, it’s this: don’t wait until life feels “perfect” to get back to your creativity. Start where you are, with whatever energy you’ve got. Paint one line, strum one chord, write one sentence. It doesn’t have to be big to matter. Those little steps are what pull you back into the groove, even after a rough season.
So here we are—back, grateful, and ready to keep creating.
With love and paint-stained hands, Rafi (and Klee)
Last night was one for the books. It’s been a minute since I hosted a paint and sip, and honestly, I had a mix of excitement and nervous energy leading up to this one. You know that moment when you find out the event sold out and your first thought is: “YES!”… followed immediately by “Oh crap, now I actually have to be entertaining and help everyone paint something beautiful in two hours”? Yeah, that was me.
But as soon as I stepped into The Exchange in Oil City, all that melted away. This place is GORGEOUS – seriously, if you haven’t been, go. You’ll get to enjoy amazing food, drinks, and a world class mural (by yours truly).
The night kicked off with their incredible food and drinks (because painting is always better with a mezze platter and a craft cocktail in hand).
Setting the Scene
We filled the room with easels, paint palettes, and brushes, transforming it into a pop-up art studio. The vibe? Relaxed, creative, and buzzing with good energy. The Exchange staff were absolute rockstars, making sure everyone had their drinks, snacks, and good vibes.
This was the calm before the storm.
The Creative Chaos
Once we got started, it was game on. There’s something magical about a paint and sip — you show people the same steps, the same colors, and then sit back as every single canvas becomes completely unique.
Somewhere between me waving my brush in the air like a paint wizard, running around the room helping people with desert roses and camel silhouettes, and laughing at my own bad jokes, the whole thing just flowed. (Yes, I was totally giving “art teacher who means business” vibes.)
Klee was there being her usual amazing self — calm, collected, and making sure I didn’t forget anything important (like reminding people to breathe and sip their drinks once in a while). And we even had Skylar join us as our assistant for the evening, which made it all the more special.
The Best Part: The Artists!
I was blown away by everyone’s creativity. It never gets old seeing a room full of people take your idea and turn it into something that’s completely theirs. Some went bold with color, some added little details that made me think, “Dang, why didn’t I do that on my sample?”
The Grand Finale
At the end of the night, we all lined up, paintings in hand, and it felt like the perfect little art show. This group seriously nailed it — and looked like they had a blast doing it.
Final Thoughts
The Exchange was the perfect host — I can’t say enough good things about their staff, the space, and the vibe they’ve created there. The food, the drinks, the environment — all of it made for one amazing night of creativity and laughter.
Klee, as always, was an amazing partner-in-art (and life), Skylar was a fantastic helper, and every single person who came out made this night unforgettable.
A full room of humans making art, sharing stories, sipping drinks, and laughing? That’s basically my favorite thing in the world. Can’t wait to do it again.
It’s been a minute since I’ve done one of these, but here we are — back at it with paintbrushes, cocktails, and just enough nervous energy to make this interesting.
On Wednesday, September 17th from 6–8 PM, we’re hosting a Paint and Sip at The Exchange in Oil City — yes, that Exchange. The one with the epic mural I spent months painting. And honestly? Being able to teach this class in the same space where I left a chunk of my soul feels like the perfect full-circle moment.
We are super excited to be a part of this!
The Challenge: Make Something Beautiful in Two Hours
Here’s the thing about Paint and Sips — you want something fun, colorful, and gorgeous, but also something you can actually finish before the night is over. No one wants to be the person still adding details while the staff is stacking chairs. So I spent some serious time coming up with a painting that’s doable in two hours, even with snacks, cocktails, and laughter breaks built in.
This time, we’re painting a desert sunset with a gorgeous desert rose in the foreground and camels in the distance. It’s bright, dramatic, and a little magical — perfect for sipping, chatting, and feeling like an artist, even if the last time you held a paintbrush was in elementary school.
Desert Bloom
Supplies are ready for you!
The Vibe: Chill, Fun, and a Little Silly
Let’s be honest — Paint and Sip isn’t about perfection. It’s about having fun, trying something new, and laughing when your camel accidentally turns into a funky-looking horse (or a dinosaur — we support creative expression here).
And The Exchange? Couldn’t ask for a better venue. The food is amazing, the drinks are top-notch, and you’ll be painting under the watchful eyes of the mural characters I painted — so yes, technically, you have an audience.
The Catch: Only Three Spots Left!
As of right now, there are just three spots left for this event — so if you’ve been thinking about joining, this is your nudge. Reserve your spot, grab a friend, and let’s make some art, share some laughs, and maybe even accidentally create a masterpiece.
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!
