Category: Monday Motivations

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Unleashing Your Artistic Superpower

The image above was taken in 2010 at the beginning of our artistic journey. This picture is the first step in us embracing our superpower. It’s a superpower that all creatives have inside. It is being you, with all your quirks and all your weirdness.

Today, we’re about to embark on a journey into the heart of what makes you not just an artist but a superhero in your own right – your uniqueness.

I’ve been deep in contemplation lately, navigating the twists and turns of my own creative path. Moving, life’s chaos, and a hiatus from art had left me grappling to rediscover my theme, my voice. And what stood in my way like a formidable adversary? Conformity.

Let’s call it what it is – conformity is the kryptonite for artists. It threatens to make us invisible, to drown out the very essence of what makes us special. But fear not, for embracing our uniqueness is the ultimate superpower.

In my artistic journey, I’ve found solace in embracing the quirks that make me, well, me. My artwork is fluid, a reflection of my rebellion against the meticulous finishing touches. There’s a rawness to it that my insecure side once questioned, but deep down, I adore it just the way it is.

Now, imagine your uniqueness as a melody within you, a rhythm that sets you apart from the symphony of the world. Every artist carries this unique tune, a blend of experiences, emotions, and perspectives – your artistic DNA. No two tunes are the same.

Conformity may seem like the easy path, but it’s a road that leads to invisibility. Picture it as trying to fit into a preset song, drowning out your individual tune. It might make you blend in, but it makes you vanish from the spotlight, turning you into background noise instead of the star of your own show.

Why is being unique a superpower? Because the world is noisy. Everyone is doing their thing, following trends. Standing out is not just crucial; it’s your signature move. Your uniqueness is the key to creating art that resonates profoundly because it comes from within you.

Now, let’s tackle the fear – the fear of being different, the fear of standing out. But here’s the truth: your uniqueness is not a weakness; it’s a strength. It’s your authenticity, your realness, and there’s nothing more powerful than authentic art. Stand in your confidence, surround yourself with those who celebrate diversity – fellow rogues who understand the value of being unique.

Experiment, explore, create your own path. Your uniqueness is your secret sauce, making your art memorable and incomparable. The road may be tough initially, with people struggling to understand your work. But keep putting it out there, for in time, they will compare it to your own unique journey.

Conformity is the silent killer of creativity. It stifles growth and hinders your own evolution. Embrace your uniqueness; it’s the antidote to invisibility. Don’t jump through hoops to fit in; stand out, for that is who you are.

So, how can you embrace your unique superpower? Start by accepting being different as a strength, not a weakness. Your uniqueness makes you authentic, real, and powerful.

Don’t be afraid to experiment, explore, and create your own way of doing things. The more you embrace your uniqueness, the louder it will resonate in the world. Your artwork will become more popular as you gain confidence in your own way of creating.

At the end of the day, remember this – your unique melody, the voice inside you, is your superpower. Don’t struggle to fit in, for your conformity might make you blend in, but it’s your uniqueness that will make you stand out. Stay unique, stay awesome, keep creating, keep dancing to your own beat, and embrace the rhythm that is your uniqueness.

I adore each and every one of you, Until next week, adios!

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Juggling Art With A Job

Today, we’re diving headfirst into the world of juggling, not the circus kind with flaming torches (although that would be awesome), but the art of balancing a side hustle, a corporate gig, and our artwork. 

This topic comes from our friend Chris, he asked, “Now that I’m doing some dog walking as a side hustle I’m finding I have little to no energy for art, or at least not the big painting projects. Instead just sketchbook doodles. Any tips for when the focus is on one thing, the dogs, energy low but still wish to be producing some paintings, or do I just need to let it go and accept life is very different for the moment?”

THE PROBLEM

Chris decides to spice up his financial game by venturing into the world of dog walking alongside his art. But, alas, the struggle is real. Exhaustion sets in, and the poor guy can’t find the time or energy to give his artistic soul the attention it deserves.

Firstly, major kudos to Chris for taking the plunge into the entrepreneurial waters of dog walking. Being your own boss of two businesses is like conquering a dragon—it’s no small feat. Now, as a fellow ringmaster juggling various artistic endeavors, YouTube videos, podcasts, books, music, and a membership site, let me spill the beans on the not-so-secret sauce: a schedule.

We Are All On This Creative Journey Of Craziness

CREATE A SCHEDULE

I know, I know, schedules can feel like a creative straightjacket. But trust me, without some semblance of order, you’ll be doing the crazy dance of chaos. And nobody wants that. No one likes being told what to do. But a schedule you create? That’s the roadmap to sanity in the whirlwind of creativity.

NON-FINANCIAL PRIORITIES

Now, let’s talk about priorities. Art is a slow burn. It’s not a microwave pizza you pop in for quick results. It requires dedicated time. When the exhaustion hits, it’s tempting to prioritize the money-making hustle over the passion project. But be wary—you don’t want to turn your love into a joyless job.

We Are All On This Creative Journey Of Craziness

TAKE BREAKS

And here’s the golden rule: self-care is not negotiable. Breaks are not a luxury; they’re a necessity. It’s like recharging your creative batteries. Remember, you’re more productive when you’re not running on fumes.

STAY ORGANIZED AND REALISTIC

Organization is your loyal ally. The Fantastic Four list (no, not the superheroes) keeps your tasks manageable. No overloading yourself! Stay realistic with your goals. You’re not a comic book hero; you’re an artist. So, chill on the unrealistic expectations.

MAKE IT EASY

Creating an environment that makes it easy to start is an art in itself. Don’t make the process an obstacle course. A clutter-free table with an easel ready to roll can be your artistic haven. Make starting a breeze, not a hurricane.

STAY INSPIRED

When life throws curveballs, and your art takes a backseat, don’t beat yourself up. It’s okay. Life is unpredictable. Stress management is the key—don’t let worry and self-doubt hijack your creative journey. Take a breather.

We Are All On This Creative Journey Of Craziness

IT’LL ALL BE OK

And the grand finale—give yourself permission. It’s okay if the canvas stays untouched for a while. Life is a constant ebb and flow. If you need to figure stuff out, take your time. Art will be waiting patiently, like a loyal amigo.

So, Chris, whether you dive back into your art or take a temporary creative siesta, it’s all in your hands. Your journey, your rules. And to everyone tuning in, keep being amazing, keep creating, and remember, it’s okay—art can wait, but life won’t. Adios for now!

Watch The Video:

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z8L3jIkqEGo%5B/embedyt%5D
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Overcoming Obstacles As An Artist

Welcome to the chaotic rollercoaster that is my life in the art studio. Seriously, it’s been like juggling flaming swords while trying to chew gum and create art—yeah, that kind of crazy!

My daughter just joined the circus—uh, I mean, moved in. Adjusting to the new family dynamic is a whole wild ride, albeit a wonderful one. But hey, in the midst of this chaos, I thought, why not sit down and have a little art party with you guys? Because who doesn’t love a good art party?

Now, let’s talk about overcoming obstacles. I am in the midst of dealing with some and I wanted to share my insight on how I deal with them. Let’s get right into it.

I KEEP A POSITIVE MINDSET.

I know, I know, positive mindset sounds like something you’d find on a unicorn’s wishlist, but bear with me. Picture this: you’re spiraling down into the abyss of a problem, and all you see are roadblocks. That’s when you need to whip out the positivity like it’s confetti at a celebration. Shift your focus from the problem to the things that you can control. It’s like a magic trick, but better.

And positive vibes don’t mean slapping a happy face sticker on everything. Oh no, we’re diving into the deep end of emotions, facing them head-on. It’s like emotional weightlifting—acknowledge, don’t bury.

Overcome Obstacles By Remembering Your Power

I BLAME NO ONE.

Blame game, anyone? Nope, we’re not playing. Blaming others is like handing over your superhero cape; you lose your personal power. So, be an astronaut with a ballpoint pen—get creative, find solutions, and for the love of art, just do your thing.

I FA-CHUNKING DO IT.

Now, let’s talk strategy. Ever heard of fa-chunking? It’s not a new dance move; it’s a game-changer. Break down your tasks into bite-sized chunks, and chip away at that obstacle like a ninja sculptor in 5, 15, or 50 minutes. Chip away at the obstacle gradually. It’s all about avoiding burnout and staying on the path without overwhelming yourself. And if one day you’re not feeling it, well, give yourself permission to Netflix and chill. Pick it up tomorrow; it’s not going anywhere.

Distractions, distractions. We’re all guilty of trying to be multitasking wizards, thinking about everything at once. Spoiler alert: it’s a procrastination party. Stay focused, stay the course, and save the mental breakdowns for your one-person fa-chunking dance-off in the studio.

I STAY ADAPTABLE.

Adaptability is the name of the game. Life’s not black and white; it’s a freaking rainbow. Be crazy, be unpredictable, change things up. It’s like being a mad scientist, but without the explosions (hopefully).

Overcome Obstacles By Remembering Your Power

I ALLOW MYSELF TO HAVE A TANTRUM.

Tantrums, because why not? We all have them, and it’s perfectly okay. Release those emotions in your own way, just avoid causing chaos by directing it at anyone else. It’s not about them, it’s about you. It’s like a solo rock concert in your living room—let it out, and then move on.

I STAY RESOURCEFUL.

Resourcefulness time. It’s okay not to have all the answers. Reach out, face your fears, ask for help. But seriously, skip asking Steve and Uncle Charles. They don’t get it. Seek advice from the cool cats who understand your artistic journey.

PERSIST THROUGH THE BULLSHIT

Last but not least, let’s talk persistence and determination. Focus on what you can control, not just the big, scary end goal. Grit is your secret weapon. Even a smidge of grit can turn that turd into a shiny ball of success. And yes, I still don’t know how to feel about sanding a turd, but it’s a party in the analogy department.

And there you have it! These are the mindsets I keep in mind when I have an obstacle in my way! You can watch the video where I discuss this and get some more insight.

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8d51oYFBBSU%5B/embedyt%5D

MY CALENDAR IS STILL AVAILABLE (40 Left)

Big shoutout to everyone who snagged a calendar! We’ve got 40 left, and the pre-orders are still going strong until December 1st. 

2024 Calendars By Rafi Perez

Alright, it’s time for me to put on my creative superhero cape and dive back into the art abyss. Adios, you amazing artists! Remember, keep creating, keep partying, and most importantly, keep being fabulous!

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The Art World’s Biggest Lies: A Rant from an Unapologetic Artist

Today, I want to dive deep into a topic that’s been on my mind lately – the dubious advice artists often encounter when seeking mentorship and guidance. I had a recent encounter with someone who claimed to be an expert in the art world, and their advice left me utterly flabbergasted.

So, let me set the stage for you. A fellow artist, let’s call her Dana, reached out to me with a burning question. She was about to have a Zoom call with an artist mentor, and something just didn’t sit right. She had come across some material from this mentor that felt out of sync with her values and artistic beliefs. Dana was concerned about whether she should heed their advice or not.

This got me thinking. Many of you, like Dana, seek guidance and mentorship from professionals or invest in art programs. And while there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that, it’s crucial to be discerning about who you choose to learn from. Your values and artistic principles should align with those of your mentor, especially when it comes to the subjective world of art.

Let me make something crystal clear: My views and experiences are unique to me, just as yours are to you. There’s no one-size-fits-all formula for success in the art world. That’s why I always advise taking my thoughts with a grain of salt. It’s all about finding your individual path and style, not blindly following someone else’s.

Now, let’s dissect some of the baffling advice Dana received:

Art Shouldn’t Be Just About Self-Expression: The mentor claimed that focusing solely on self-expression is narcissistic and unhelpful to the world. Well, I vehemently disagree. Art has always been about self-expression, and there are countless artists like Frida Kahlo who used their work as a form of personal expression. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

Gallery Representation Is a Must: This mentor insisted that you won’t have a successful art career without proper gallery representation. But this idea is outdated. Many artists thrive without galleries, and some, like me, prefer to sell directly to their audience. The mentor’s switch from being an artist to running a gallery is suspiciously convenient, don’t you think?

Large Body of Work Before Going Public: Another cookie-cutter piece of advice claimed that you must amass a large body of work before going public or approaching galleries. But who defines “large”? The truth is, you should keep creating, but don’t let arbitrary numbers hold you back. Art is a journey, and you’re always evolving.

Do Your Own Thing As An Artist

Medium Hierarchy: The mentor propagated the idea that oil on canvas is the superior medium, while drawings and illustrations on paper are at the bottom of the barrel. This notion is misguided. Collectors often don’t care about the medium; they care about the art itself. Use the medium that resonates with you.

Labeling Artists: The mentor criticized an artist, claiming what they did wasn’t “art” but “design.” This tendency to pigeonhole artists into neat labels is harmful. All forms of creativity are valid, and no one should decide what is or isn’t art.

Painter vs. Drawer: Lastly, the mentor insisted that if you paint on paper without covering the entire surface, you’re a “drawer” and not a “painter.” This arbitrary distinction is baseless. Your chosen medium and style don’t determine your worth as an artist.

In conclusion, be cautious when seeking advice and mentorship. Research your sources, ensure they have a legitimate background, and make sure their values align with yours. Don’t let anyone discourage you or dictate the “right” way to be an artist.

Remember, there’s no definitive roadmap to success in the art world. Blaze your own trail, create your own rules, and keep putting yourself out there. Don’t let anyone, no matter how “expert” they claim to be, undermine your artistic journey. Your path is uniquely yours, and that’s something to be celebrated.

Thank you for tuning in to my rant today. I truly appreciate your support, and I’m excited to share more with you in the future. Stay inspired and keep creating. You’ve got this! Adios for now.

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Embracing Artist Struggles

Today, I want to have an open conversation about the often-overlooked struggles that come with pursuing a career in art. I’ve been in this game for a while now, so I’ve faced my fair share of challenges. I want to shed light on these struggles, how I’ve tackled them (sometimes successfully, sometimes not), and the valuable lessons I’ve learned along the way.

The Temptation to Take the Easy Way

One of the first struggles many artists encounter is the temptation to take the easy route. It’s especially prevalent when you’re just starting, and you’re eager to make a living from your art. I remember my early days when I created hand-drawn signs on wooden crates because I knew they would sell. At first, it seemed exciting, but I quickly realized I wasn’t enjoying it, and I didn’t want to be known as “the artist sign guy.”

This is a trap that artists can fall into: creating what sells, even if they don’t enjoy it. It’s essential to ask yourself if this is what you want to become known for. Taking the easy route can lead to a creative rut and feeling trapped in a world you’ve created for yourself.

Artist Struggles With Rafi Perez

The Burnout Battle

Burnout isn’t exclusive to the corporate world; it can affect artists too. In the pursuit of your art career, you might find yourself overloading your plate with projects, giving yourself impossible goals, and working relentlessly. Burnout happens when you put in all this effort and don’t see the results you expected, which is common when starting.

It’s crucial to give yourself the space to relax and think long-term. I started my career with a five-year plan, working hard in the beginning, but I soon realized I needed balance. Self-care is vital for sustaining your passion for art over the long haul.

Life Interferes

Life has a way of throwing curveballs when you least expect it. Family issues, health problems, and other personal matters can disrupt your creative flow. I’ve faced such situations, like dealing with aging parents and health concerns. In these moments, it’s essential to allow yourself a pause and reevaluate your priorities.

Don’t push yourself relentlessly; life is part of your journey, and it’s okay to take breaks when needed. Your art career isn’t going anywhere; it’s a long-term endeavor.

The Art of Being Ignored

In today’s social media-driven world, artists often seek validation and recognition online. However, I want to emphasize that you should post your work because you genuinely love it, not solely for validation or money. Prepare yourself for the possibility of being ignored, especially in the beginning.

I was ignored on social media for five years before gaining a consistent following. The key is to find internal motivation and remain consistent. The more you put yourself out there, the more chances others will find you. Remember that external validation can be fickle, but your passion should be your driving force.

Artist Struggles With Rafi Perez

Dealing with Rejection and Criticism

Rejection is a tough pill to swallow, but it’s part of an artist’s journey. Galleries may reject your work not because it’s bad but because it doesn’t fit their clientele’s taste. Remember, rejection isn’t a reflection of your worth as an artist.

Criticism is another challenge. You must develop an open mind and understand that not everyone will appreciate your work. Use rejection and criticism as opportunities for growth and improvement. Face them head-on and keep pushing forward.

In conclusion, the road to a successful art career is filled with struggles, but persistence is the key to overcoming them. Whether it’s resisting the easy route, battling burnout, managing life’s interruptions, dealing with being ignored, or facing rejection and criticism, every obstacle can be an opportunity for growth.

Your art career is a journey, and embracing these struggles will make you a stronger and more resilient artist.

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Will AI Replace Artists?

Today, I want to dive into a topic that’s been buzzing in the art world, something I didn’t initially plan to address – AI art. As creators, we often encounter discouragement on our artistic journeys, and the rise of AI-generated art has sparked a wave of uncertainty. But fear not; the iRobot Roomba uprising shouldn’t be happening any time soon.

AI art, like Dali to Midjourney, uses algorithms to generate art based on commands and curated images. It’s fast, impressive, and, yes, it’s making waves, with some pieces even selling for a pretty penny. This technology has ignited debates about its impact on artists’ careers.

First things first, AI isn’t the enemy. It’s a tool, a program that follows prompts. It doesn’t create art out of passion; it’s the artist wielding the tool who breathes life into the art. AI is simply another step in the ever-evolving landscape of art. Second. most of us who are self-employed artists, really have nothing to worry about because AI doesn’t think for itself. It’s a tool. That being said, whoever wields the tool is responsible for how they use it. People have been scamming and stealing for a while. AI is just another tool in their arsenal, but it’s pretty new, so we’ll see what happens with all that moving forward.

AI Art Can’t Do This – Contemplate – Rafi Perez

So, will AI replace artists? Short answer: no. The art world, like any other, embraces new tools. Think back to digital synthesizers in the ’80s – they didn’t replace orchestras; they introduced new sounds and genres. AI will have its place, but it won’t replace your unique creativity.

AI has the potential to impact and transform various aspects of creative jobs, but it is unlikely to completely replace them. Here’s why:

AI as a Tool: AI can be a valuable tool for creative professionals. It can assist in tasks like generating design ideas, automating repetitive tasks, data analysis, and more. This can enhance efficiency and productivity but doesn’t eliminate the need for human creativity.

Creativity and Emotional Intelligence: Creative jobs often involve elements of emotional intelligence, empathy, and abstract thinking, which are currently beyond the capabilities of AI. Machines lack the ability to genuinely understand and connect with human emotions and experiences.

AI Art Can’t Do This – Make something out of nothing – Rafi Perez

Human Touch: Many creative fields, such as art, music, and writing, rely on a human touch that reflects personal experiences, cultural contexts, and unique perspectives. This human touch is challenging for AI to replicate authentically.

Innovation and Novelty: While AI can analyze existing data and patterns, it struggles with true innovation and producing entirely novel ideas. Creative jobs often require thinking “outside the box” and pushing boundaries, which is a distinctly human trait.

Subjective Nature of Creativity: Much of creativity is subjective, varying from person to person and culture to culture. What one person finds creative, another may not. AI struggles with these subjective nuances.

Collaboration: Creative industries often thrive on collaboration and collective creativity. Humans working together bring diverse ideas and perspectives to the table, fostering innovation. AI can’t replicate the collaborative dynamics of a creative team.

Ethical and Moral Decisions: Creative professionals often make ethical and moral decisions in their work, considering the potential impact on society. AI lacks moral judgment and relies on human guidance.

AI Art Can’t Do This – Use emotion as inspiration – Rafi Perez

For those fearing competition in fields like concept art or design, remember, embracing AI can enhance your workflow. AI won’t replace artists; it’ll complement them. As artists, we adapt and evolve with the times.

Don’t let fear hold you back. Your creative journey is yours alone. AI is just one more tool at your disposal. Embrace it, learn from it, and use it to enhance your craft. Don’t buy into the fear mongering; keep creating, and remember that your creativity is irreplaceable.

In the grand scheme of things, AI is just another chapter in our artistic journey. Keep pushing your boundaries, and don’t let doubt discourage you. You’re not in competition with AI; you’re in competition with yourself to keep evolving as an artist.

So, artists, don’t let fear dictate your path. Embrace AI as a tool in your creative arsenal if that is your jam. Keep creating, keep evolving, and remember – your art, your voice, and your journey are uniquely yours. Adios, and keep rocking your art!

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Why You Should Never Give Up

Today, I want to candidly discuss something that many of us face on our creative journeys: discouragement. It’s a topic often overlooked, yet it’s a formidable adversary that can sneak up on us when we least expect it. Whether you’re just starting or you’ve been at this artistic endeavor for a while, I want you to know that you’re not alone in battling those moments of doubt and fear.

The misconception that once you’ve been in the creative field for a while, you’ll stride forward with unwavering confidence is far from the truth. In reality, everyone, including myself, has fought our inner demons and insecurities along the way.

I’ve played music for a long time, but even the thought of sharing my music with the world was utterly terrifying. I’ve always dreamt of writing books, but the idea of putting my words out there for scrutiny sent shivers down my spine. And don’t even get me started on sharing my artwork with the world – that felt like stepping into the abyss.

The common thread through all these creative endeavors was battling insecurity. It wasn’t about whether I’d achieve instant success or gain an army of followers. It was about pushing through the discomfort and persisting in my artistic journey.

The Only Reason I Do What I Do Is Because I Didn’t Give Up – Rafi Perez

Here’s the thing: As artists, our path is rarely a steady stream of certainty. Instead, it resembles more of a rollercoaster ride, with ups and downs, twists and turns. Your financial situation and your insecurities may mirror this pattern, and it’s something you’ll learn to navigate as you continue your journey.

Every time you challenge yourself with new projects, venture into unfamiliar territories, or dare to switch things up, you’ll likely encounter discouragement. The biggest foe we face is often the voice inside our heads – I call it the “stickman.” It’s the voice that tells us we’re not good enough, that nobody cares, that we should give up.

Especially in the beginning, when you’re sharing your work on social media and it feels like nobody is paying attention, that voice can be relentless. Friends and family might not seem as interested as you’d hoped, and it’s easy to wonder why they aren’t rallying behind your creative endeavors. But remember, people have their own lives, and it’s not a reflection of your worth or talent.

The Only Reason I Do What I Do Is Because I Didn’t Give Up – Rafi Perez

Early on, I discovered the importance of not fixating on my bank account or the number of likes and subscribers. For the first few years, it often felt like nobody cared about what I was creating. But that’s not why I started in the first place.

I embarked on this artistic journey because I had something to say and express. The act of putting my thoughts, my art, my music, or my videos out into the world was about fulfilling my creative drive, not about seeking validation.

Our world often measures success by numbers – followers, likes, shares, and dollars. But I’m here to tell you to cast aside that shallow metric. Instead, create for the sake of creation itself. Be unapologetically yourself, embrace your uniqueness, and share your work because you love it.

Yes, it’s tough when you pour your heart and soul into something, and the response doesn’t match your expectations. You may even encounter imposter syndrome and insecurity, but don’t let them deter you. Remember why you do what you do. For me, I started creating art because I had a voice to share. I started making videos to connect with other creatives worldwide, something I wished someone had done for me.

The Only Reason I Do What I Do Is Because I Didn’t Give Up – Rafi Perez

I don’t create my art, music, or videos for the few naysayers who might criticize or dislike my work. I create them for the hundreds who appreciate and find value in what I do, but mostly for myself. It’s crucial to persist without constantly seeking validation because, in the end, you’re your most important audience.

You might experience moments when you question why you’re doing what you do, especially when it feels like nobody cares. In those times, find strength in the knowledge that everything you do matters. You might not notice it, but your creativity ripples through the world, impacting people in ways you may never fully understand.

So, I leave you with this: Create what you want to create. Put it out there because you have something to say, not because you’re chasing fame or validation. Then, persist through the storms of doubt and discouragement. Keep going because you’re a badass; the world deserves to know your unique voice.

I recently doubted myself, but a heartfelt message from a supporter reminded me why I do what I do. Find your reason, embrace the gauntlet of creativity, and keep going. There may not be an easier way, but trust me; it’s worth it.

Thank you for reading, and remember that you’re awesome. Keep rocking your art!

Adios,

Rafi

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A Journey to Authenticity – Sept 2023

Welcome to the vibrant month of September 2023. We’ve traversed through time once again, and I’m thrilled to connect with all of you. If you’re tuning in to this message, it’s a signal that a world of new opportunities awaits our Rogue members. From career challenges to collab labs, and fresh lessons and workshops, there’s an artistic feast awaiting you this month. So, whether you’re already immersed in the creative flow or just about to dive in, be sure to explore September’s exciting offerings.

Speaking of diving in, I’ve got something profound to share with you for this month. As creators, I urge you to set aside some time for introspection and contemplation. It’s time to embark on a journey to uncover your artistic voice. We recently had a captivating discussion in a live podcast about discovering one’s voice as an artist – an exploration that goes far beyond your chosen medium.

I’m aware that many of you have already taken steps down this path. You create from the heart, you infuse your essence into your art, and you know the essence of finding your voice. But let’s be real, not everyone fully comprehends this journey. Some may not grasp the immense power and significance of discovering their own unique artistic voice. So, let’s break it down and explore the reasons why this journey is worth every ounce of effort.

When you delve deep into the realm of your artistic voice, you’re actually tapping into your distinct perspective. It’s a journey of understanding your artistic identity and your essence as a human being. This is more than just making art – it’s about baring your soul through your creations. I get it, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of trends and popular styles. But, believe me, the real magic happens when you authentically express yourself.

Think about it – when you chase trends or create just for popularity’s sake, you’re not truly speaking your truth. You’re not sharing your unique perspective, your personal quirks, your passions that make you, well, you. The consequence? A lack of authentic connection with your audience. It’s like trying to fit into a mold that doesn’t quite match your shape. And guess what? You’re better than that.

The world, as it stands, often emphasizes conformity. We’re often taught that fitting in equates to happiness. But let me tell you, the real treasures of connection come from embracing your individuality. When you do that, your art becomes an extension of yourself. That’s where the true power lies – in being unapologetically, unmistakably you.

You Are A Creative Badass

I’ve seen this firsthand in my artistic journey. From sculptures to paintings, my art reflects me, and that’s what makes it instantly recognizable. It’s the authentic cohesion across all mediums, a common thread woven through each piece. This brings us to an essential point – whether you’re crafting jewelry, composing music, weaving words, or creating videos, your unique voice will infuse a consistent essence into all your creations.

This month, I want you to focus on more than just art. Consider your life’s trajectory. Are you chasing after an elusive something without a clear vision? Or are you living a life brimming with personal fulfillment? Connect these dots. Envision what you desire and tie it to your art. Your voice should echo your aspirations, your dreams, your essence.

In a nutshell, I urge you to dive deep into your artistic voice this month. Contemplate, reflect, and let your true self emerge in your creations. Dismiss the fear of rejection – it’s merely a sieve that separates those who resonate with your truth from those who don’t. Remember, those who change the world are the ones who walk their unique path, not the well-trodden road.

Go forth and embrace this transformative journey. Paint, sculpt, sing, or write with the colors of your essence. Unleash your voice upon the world. You’ve got this, and remember, you are nothing short of a creative genius.

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Embrace Your Unique Style!

Welcome to the month of August! As we embark on this new month, I want to share some thoughts on what motivates me and what we’ll be focusing on. 

When we start our careers, it’s natural to look around for inspiration. We find ourselves drawn to bits and pieces of different artists’ work, color combinations, textures, and styles. In this process, we might feel like imposters, thinking that we haven’t truly found our own unique style yet. This can make you feel like you suck at being unique, but that’s not true.

You see, creativity is a tapestry woven from all the things that have influenced us throughout our lives. As artists, we draw inspiration from various sources – it could be something we saw as a child, a memory of watching Bob Ross paint on TV, or the awe we felt when witnessing the mesmerizing art of someone we admire. These experiences leave imprints on our minds, and over time, they blend together to create something truly unique.

Artist Rafi Perez And His Art

The key is not to strive for something entirely unheard of or the opposite of everything else out there. Uniqueness comes from the fusion of your influences, preferences, and perspective on the world. Just like a smartphone is a combination of existing technologies, it’s the way these elements are brought together that makes something truly innovative.

The truth is, you don’t need to struggle to find your style. Embrace the things you love and admire, bring them together in your work, and let your creativity shine through. You are inherently unique, and your creations are a reflection of your singular self.

Let’s keep our creative spirits high and continue to celebrate our uniqueness. You, our fantastic community, are the reason we can do what we love. Your support and passion fuel our creativity, and we’re incredibly grateful for each and every one of you.

So, embrace your creativity, own your uniqueness, and let’s make August an extraordinary month filled with art, inspiration, and love. From the bottom of my heart, I adore each of you. Until next time, jazz hands and love… and remember, you are wonderfully, exquisitely, and unequivocally unique!

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You Are Constantly Changing For The Better

Welcome to July! I hope this month finds you well, filled with creativity and awesomeness. It’s a little hot out there. I won’t deny it. Of course, it might not be as scorching as in some places, so I won’t complain too much. If you find yourself in the studio, working away, embracing the season’s warmth, that’s fantastic! But if not, don’t worry. This is the month to embrace the heat, enjoy it, and become hot stuff in your own creative endeavors.

I want to start the month with motivation, something for you to contemplate and reflect on as you navigate through your art career, which can sometimes be quite crazy.

Lately, we’ve been going through a reevaluation process in our lives. We’ve decided that for 2023, we’re going to slow things down, get rid of the unnecessary fluff, and truly embrace a slower pace. It’s wonderful to finally have places to sit outside and relax. It’s not just about the constant hustle in the studio anymore. As you know, we’ve been at this for over a decade, and as we grow older, we naturally yearn for a more measured approach.

I’ve been engaged in numerous conversations and deep thinking sessions lately with Klee, and something struck me the other day. It’s about how we tend to look at history as a way to predict our future.

Businesses formulate their budgets based on past sales, and many individuals are held accountable for who they were in their teenage years. It’s as if we are constantly defined by our past, by what was possible for us back then. But here’s the thing: we are constantly growing, expanding, and evolving.

Think about it. You’re not the same person you were five minutes ago, let alone five years ago or even 15 years ago. We are in a constant state of flux and evolution. I find this notion incredibly powerful and motivating. There have been moments in my life when I believed that “this is it” and settled for a life that didn’t align with my true desires. But let me tell you, you are not defined by your past self. You have the capacity to reinvent yourself, to become someone different, someone who embraces life, creation, and everything that makes you a creative badass.

Sure, there will be days when you wake up on the wrong side of the bed, feeling unmotivated and wondering if you have anything worthwhile to contribute. But remember, that’s just a temporary state. It doesn’t define the entirety of who you are. In a matter of minutes, you can shift your mindset, transform yourself into a motivated individual eagerly anticipating the joys of life and creation.

So, this month, I invite you to contemplate this idea. Reflect on your ability to transition from one state of mind to another. Sometimes it takes a little longer, sometimes it happens in an instant. The key is to do whatever it takes to put yourself in a mental space where you can confidently say, “I am a creative badass.” Trust me, it will work wonders for your creative pursuits.

In addition to this contemplation, let’s not forget our exciting schedule. Every Wednesday, we’ll be hosting live pods and public and private live streams, ensuring a smooth experience without any hiccups. Moreover, this month’s lesson for the Rogue site members comes from our workshop on pricing. It’s a valuable resource for all rogues out there, so make sure to check it out.

Lastly, I want to remind you to enjoy the Collab Lab challenge and all the other exciting activities happening on the site. Embrace the opportunities, stay creative, and remember that if you find yourself in a funk, it’s just a passing moment. You have the power to transcend it and move into a space where inspiration flows freely.

I truly adore you all. You are the most incredible community, and I’m grateful to have you here. Let’s make July a month filled with artistic growth, inspiration, and the joy of creating. Keep being amazing!

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