Category: ALL UPDATES By Rafi And Klee

Welcome to “Rafi’s Random Creative Ramblings,” where the unexpected meets the creative. Join Rafi as he delves into a wide array of topics, from spontaneous art projects and philosophical musings to practical advice for fellow artists. This blog is a place for curiosity, inspiration, and a bit of randomness, reflecting Rafi’s eclectic and vibrant approach to life and art. Whether you’re looking for a light-hearted read or deep insights, Rafi’s ramblings promise to entertain and enlighten. Dive in and enjoy the unpredictable journey of creativity and expression with Rafi!

Posted on by — 7 Comments

Back in the Studio and Still Forgetting Why We Walked into a Room

Well, hello you awesome human you! I’ve got an update for you. The year started out feeling like we got shoved into a washing machine set to extra spin cycle—but I am beyond happy to report that Klee is BACK in the studio and feeling much better!

Now, we still have a doctor’s appointment next week where we’ll get the next set of instructions. It’ll either be awesome wisdom or looking at a chart while making vague humming sounds (you know what I mean). But the good news? So far, so good!

Us at the hospital for a bazillion times

The Delicate Balance (That Was Absolutely Annihilated by Life)

As you probably know, Klee and I balance a ton of creative stuff. We do art, murals, music, videos, podcasts, books, workshops, a Patreon membership, and occasionally remember to eat food. Our creative business runs like an elaborate juggling act, except the balls are on fire, someone keeps throwing in new ones, and gravity is unpredictable.

But then… BAM! A giant wrench fell out of the sky and CRUSHED the entire operation. And when I say “wrench,” I mean the kind that makes you question your entire existence while standing in the kitchen, staring blankly at a fridge that you know you opened for a reason but now have no clue why.

We’re just now picking up the pieces and putting things back together. Are we nailing it? Almost. Do we still walk into rooms and immediately forget why we’re there? Also yes. But I have faith that by next month, the balance will be restored, and I’ll stop opening my email inbox only to immediately forget why I did that in the first place.

Look at that beautiful creature at her bench!

So How Do We Balance So Much Creative Stuff?

Ohhh, I’m so glad you asked because I love talking about this! Balancing a creative life isn’t about having a perfectly organized schedule (hilarious, right?)—it’s about understanding your energy, priorities, and what actually keeps you moving forward. Here’s what helps us:

  1. Know What Absolutely Needs to Get Done First
    Not everything is equally urgent. Some things need to happen now (book deadlines, mural projects, feeding ourselves), while other things can take a backseat (reorganizing the entire studio because “it feels off”). Prioritize wisely.
  2. Make Creativity Part of Your Daily Life
    The trick isn’t finding time—it’s making creativity part of your routine, like brushing your teeth (but with more paint… wait, no, don’t brush your teeth with paint… the struggle is real). If you set aside even 20 minutes to do something (anything) creative daily, it keeps the momentum going.
  3. Respect Your Brain’s Bandwidth
    We all want to do ALL THE THINGS. But burnout is real. If your brain is fried, don’t force creativity—step away, walk around, eat a snack, or yell dramatically into the void (trust me, it helps). Your work will be better for it.
  4. Use the “Tiny Steps” Method
    If a big project feels overwhelming, break it into small, manageable steps. You don’t need to “write a book” today, but you can write 100 words. You don’t need to “paint a masterpiece,” but you can sketch an idea. Tiny steps add up faster than you think.
  5. Celebrate the Wins (Even the Small Ones!)
    If we only celebrate massive accomplishments, we’ll constantly feel behind. So celebrate finishing a draft, selling a piece, creating something new, or even just showing up for your creativity. Heck, celebrate remembering why you walked into a room! It’s a win!
She’s been on fire since returning to the studio

I think that’s about it… I could be forgetting something… 

Oh yeah! Have fun and don’t be all doomsday about what you didn’t get done. There is always tomorrow.

Thank You for Your Love and Support

To everyone who has sent love, well-wishes, and good vibes for Klee—we love you guys SO MUCH. Seriously. You’ve been incredible, and it means the world to us.

We’re getting back on track, slowly but surely, and we’re excited for all the creative chaos that’s coming next. Stay tuned for more art, more music, more randomness, and hopefully less walking into rooms confused.

Stay awesome, stay creative, and remember: if you forgot why you walked into a room, it was probably for snacks.

Love,
Rafi & Klee

Posted on by — 7 Comments

Don’t Listen To The Naysayers

Ah, the internet. A place where dreams are built, inspiration is shared, and someone, somewhere, is always ready to tell you why everything is doomed to fail.

Case in point: today, while perusing social media, I came across an article about the new brewery coming to 100 Seneca in Oil City. This is big news! A new business, an exciting venture, a fresh reason for people to gather, enjoy, and—let’s be real—sip on something delicious. Naturally, people were thrilled. Comments flooded in with excitement about the growth, the revitalization, and the fact that, yes, cool things are happening in Oil City!

Jeff giving us a tour of 100 Seneca

But alas, like a poorly written sequel to a great movie, the naysayers arrived. I saw this happen in Pensacola while I lived there, even with it being a beautiful town on the coast of Florida. The town was picking itself back up with many people being proactive, yet the humbugs voiced their “opinion” about how it was doomed to fail. Ten years later and I’m happy to announced that Pensacola is thriving. But, there will always be someone complaining no matter what you are trying to do.

You know the type. The ones who see a new opportunity and immediately predict its failure like they have some kind of crystal ball of doom. The ones who still pine for the “good ol’ days” while conveniently forgetting that the good ol’ days weren’t always that great. The ones who assume that because something is new, it must be bad, and because something didn’t exist before, it shouldn’t exist now.

I like to call them the defeatists.

As an artist, I know these creatures well. They are the ones who take great pride in explaining to me why my creative endeavors are impractical, why artists can’t make money, and why I should probably just get a “real job.” They stand at the sidelines, loudly declaring that the game is unwinnable—while never actually playing the game themselves.

Live painting at a VERY successful art show we put on in Oil City

A Brief History of Oil City’s Evolution (for the Defeatists Who Forgot)

Oil City, as the name suggests, once thrived because of oil. In fact, it was where it all began. It boomed. It thrived. It was the place to be. And then—surprise, surprise—big petroleum companies decided they could make more money elsewhere by destroying an entire town’s livelihood, packed up, and left. What followed was the opposite of an economic boom. (An economic oomph? An economic thud? A financial faceplant? Take your pick.)

But did Oil City roll over and give up? No! The town shifted gears, launched an artist relocation program, a Mainstreet Program, and people in the community stepped up and decided to make things happen. Others just sat on their hands and complained. Yet, despite the laziness and moaning of a few, the town slowly started rebuilding with creativity, community, and small businesses at its core.

Now, we have new businesses, a thriving art community, and growing opportunities. Change isn’t coming—it’s already here. And yet, some people still refuse to see it. Instead, they clutch their metaphorical pearls and reminisce about a time long gone, all while ignoring the incredible momentum happening right under their noses.

Most of our community and the surrounding communities are hungry for awesome things and pay attention to all the cool stuff that is coming. Some live in a bubble of their own pessimism and are committed to not being a part of that growth.

Working on Library mural in Oil City

Why Do Defeatists Exist?

Honestly? Some people just don’t like change. Others can’t wrap their mind around the future because they are stuck in the past. They’d rather complain about how things used to be than take part in how things could be. Maybe it’s fear. Maybe it’s laziness. Maybe they have a secret hobby of raining on people’s parades.

Whatever the reason, their negative energy is exhausting. And if we’re not careful, it can seep into our own enthusiasm like a slow leak in a bicycle tire.

The truth is, some people just got used to complaining and focusing on everything that is going wrong. They bitch, they moan, but they don’t become proactive in their own lives. They are waiting for someone to save them and until then, they just complain. I know this sounds harsh, but it’s true. I used to be one of those people, and the world I see now is vastly different than what it used to be.

The town isn’t going to evolve on its own. It takes forward thinkers and people who focus on opportunity, something that defeatists can’t do because they are stuck in the past.

Concert At Woods And River Coffee (AWESOME COFFEE SHOP) Oil City

So, What Do We Do About Them?

1. Ignore and Proceed

The best way to deal with a naysayer is to do the exact thing they claim won’t work. Prove them wrong by succeeding. Don’t expect all of them to come around and change their mind, many will chalk it up to luck and move on to the next thing they’ll complain about. However, some may have planted the seed of hope in their perspective which is huge.

2. Don’t Engage in the Negativity Olympics

Trying to argue with a defeatist is like arguing with a pigeon—it won’t change its mind, it’ll just ignore you and look for things to peck at… and eventually, it’ll just poop on your head. Let them stew in their cynicism while you build something awesome.

3. Remember Who Actually Represents Your Community

The loudest complainer does not represent the majority. The person who left that negative comment does not speak for our town. I’ve seen firsthand how supportive this town is of new businesses and ideas. So let’s not let one keyboard warrior speak for an entire community of dreamers, doers, and creators. It’s easy to complain from the sidelines while someone else is trying to make things happen, but in the end, those people are not in the arena and they are not actually committed to the growth of the town. They want someone else to fix the problem, all while not lifting a finger to actually do anything about it.

4. Keep Creating and Supporting Growth

Klee and I are not only working on a mural design for this brewery, but we’re also involved in the Makerspace that’s coming to the same building. These are projects that will contribute to the town’s growth and creativity. That’s where our focus is—not on the people who refuse to see progress even when it’s painted on a wall right in front of them.

Concert at Curb Market in Oil City

In Conclusion: Let’s Keep Moving Forward

The reality is, change is inevitable. It’s part of life. And instead of fearing it, resisting it, or yelling at it from behind a keyboard, why not embrace it? In my travels around the country, I’ve seen a lot of towns fall victim to devastating economic change, but I have also seen towns reinvent themselves and thrive. The towns that thrived did so because their community came together and embraced the future. The towns that fell apart saw no future for themselves. Oil City has already proven that it can evolve, and it will continue to do so—whether the defeatists like it or not. Luckily, we have way more dreamers.

So, to all the dreamers, risk-takers, and forward-thinkers out there: keep building, keep creating, and keep proving the naysayers wrong. And to the defeatists? Well, enjoy your time in the past. We’ll be over here, shaping the future.

Posted on by — 3 Comments

Finding Your Creative Flow After Life Disruptions

Life has a funny way of throwing curveballs. Sometimes, it’s a small bump in the road, and other times, it’s a full-on derailment. As a lot of you know, December threw a massive wrench into our world when Klee got pretty sick. And when I say a wrench, I mean one of those ridiculously oversized, cartoon-style wrenches that completely shut down the creative machine that is our life and business. To say it was a challenge would be the understatement of the century.

Honestly, it got pretty hairy there for a while. My focus became Klee—making sure she was okay, trying to keep things together, and, quite frankly, barely keeping my own head above water. When life demands that kind of energy, creativity, business, and all those other moving parts take a backseat. It’s like standing in the middle of a creative tornado and suddenly realizing you don’t even remember how to pick up a paintbrush.

A lot of hospital waiting rooms

But the good news? Klee is feeling much better! We still have a ways to go, but her smile has returned, and we’re both back in the studio.

Stepping back into that space after months of not being creative is… well, weird. Because getting back to “normal” after life has thrown you off course isn’t as simple as flipping a switch.

For anyone who has had life put their passion on pause, you know how tough it is to return. Things have piled up, been neglected, or pushed aside. And now, they all sit in front of you, staring you down like a boss battle in a video game you’ve never played. It’s overwhelming.

For me, I tried to keep things running while Klee was sick—I handled urgent things like orders and communication with collectors—but everything else? Yeah, it sat there, collecting dust and waiting for me to figure out how to be creative again. And let’s be real, I don’t just feel rusty—I feel like I have completely forgotten how to create art.

So, how do you get back into the groove when life has thrown you off your creative rhythm? Here’s what’s been working for me:

1. Start Small and Give Yourself Grace

Creativity isn’t a faucet you just turn back on. If it feels like you’ve forgotten how to do what you love, don’t panic—it’s normal. Start small. Doodle, hum, play with materials, move your body, do something low-pressure. The first thing you create after a long break will probably feel awkward, but that’s okay. Progress, not perfection.

2. Let Go of the Guilt

It’s easy to beat yourself up for all the things you “should have” done. Don’t. Life happens. It’s okay that things paused. The important part is that you’re here now, ready to begin again. Creativity doesn’t hold grudges—it just waits for you to come back.

3. Make Time, Even if It’s Messy

Your brain will try to convince you that you need the perfect setup, the perfect moment, or the perfect amount of time to dive back in. That’s a lie. Just show up, even if it’s for 10 minutes. Creativity thrives on momentum, not time shortage mentality.

4. Move Through the “This Isn’t Working” Phase

Right now, I’m working on a mural, a commission, and some new art. I am slowly (very slowly) crawling out of the “this isn’t working” stage. That stage is real. And it’s frustrating. But if you keep moving through it, even when it feels like you’re pushing through molasses, you’ll come out the other side. Trust the process, even when it feels like it’s laughing at you.

5. Do Something That Reminds You Why You Love It

Go back to your roots. Listen to music that inspires you. Look at old sketches. Read something that made you want to create in the first place. Remind yourself that you didn’t start this journey for perfection—you started it because it made you feel alive.

6. Be Patient with Yourself

Coming back to creativity after a break is like rebuilding a muscle. You wouldn’t hit the gym after months away and expect to lift the heaviest weight on day one. Creativity is the same. Give yourself the space to rebuild your confidence and strength.

7. Find the Joy in the Process

It’s easy to get caught up in productivity and deadlines, but don’t forget to enjoy the ride. Laugh at the weird mistakes. Let yourself play. The best way to rebuild your creative groove is to fall in love with creating again.

So, if you’re out there, feeling stuck, feeling rusty, feeling like you’ve lost your creative spark—know that you’re not alone. Life happens, and sometimes, it completely reroutes our plans. But creativity is patient. It waits for you. And when you’re ready, it welcomes you back with open arms (and probably a bit of frustration, but hey, that’s part of the deal).

We’re back at it, one brushstroke, one piece of jewelry, one idea at a time. And if you’re climbing out of your own creative funk, I hope you give yourself grace, patience, and permission to just start. Because once you do, that groove you thought you lost? It’ll find its way back to you.

And when it does, oh man, is it going to be awesome.

CONGRATUALATIONS ALIYU!

Posted on by — Leave a comment

Put Together a Solo Art Show Without Losing Your Mind

So, you’re planning a solo art show. First of all—hell yeah! This is a huge milestone. It means you’re ready to put yourself and your art out there in a big way. But let’s be honest—this can be equal parts exhilarating and terrifying.

Maybe you’re thinking: I have no idea what I’m doing! What if no one shows up? What if it’s a disaster? What if I trip over my own feet in front of everyone and become a viral internet meme?

Breathe, my creative human. I’ve done this, I survived, and I’m here to help you do the same. So let’s break it down—step by step—so you can put together a badass solo show without losing your mind.

Step 1: Find a Venue (Even If a Gallery Won’t Give You the Time of Day)

If you’re already working with a gallery, great. But if you’re not, don’t sit around waiting for someone to discover you like a Hollywood movie. You don’t need gallery representation to have a killer solo show.

Try This Instead: The Pop-Up Art Show Move

Find an empty storefront in a busy area and contact the owner. Many landlords would rather have something happening in their space instead of it sitting there collecting dust. Offer to rent it for a few days, clean it up, and make it look nice. Sometimes you can even get it for free just by promising to leave it better than you found it.

The key is thinking outside the box—coffee shops, breweries, coworking spaces, even an industrial warehouse could work. You’re not just putting on a show—you’re creating an experience.

Step 2: Curate Like a Boss

Now that you have a space, you need to fill it with work that makes people stop, stare, and say, Whoa.

What You Need:

  • Enough Art to Fill the Space – Aim for at least 20-40 pieces that fit a theme.
  • A Killer Name for Your Exhibition – Something catchy, intriguing, and meaningful.
  • A Showstopper Piece – One or two jaw-dropping, mind-blowing works that people can’t stop talking about. Bonus points if it’s interactive.
  • A Cohesive Experience – Make sure everything in your show feels intentional. You don’t want a beautiful, moody series about introspection next to a random painting of a cat wearing sunglasses. (Unless that’s the theme—then by all means, go for it.)

Step 3: Design the Space Like You’re Crafting a Story

People aren’t just coming to look at your art. They’re coming to experience it. The layout of your show should guide them on a journey—like a visual mixtape that hits all the right emotional beats.

Pro Tips:

  • Map It Out – Take measurements. Sketch a floor plan. (Yes, actual planning—it’s worth it.)
  • Create a Flow – Think about what people see first when they walk in. Where do their eyes go? Where do their feet go? Lead them like a mastermind.
  • Use Corners for Drama – Make people turn a corner and get hit with a moment that stops them in their tracks.
  • Avoid Bottlenecks – If you have a bar or snack area, make sure it’s not blocking traffic. People shouldn’t have to play an awkward game of Twister just to get a drink.

Step 4: Set the Mood (Because Art Is More Than Just What’s on the Wall)

An art show is a full-body experience. The art is the main event, but the atmosphere? That’s what makes it unforgettable.

  • Lighting Matters – Spotlights for hero pieces, ambient lighting for mood. Think about how light affects color and texture.
  • Music Sets the Vibe – Don’t just put on a random playlist—choose something that enhances the art. And no, elevator jazz is not the default.
  • Food & Drinks Are Your Secret Weapon – People love free snacks. Even something simple—wine, cheese, crackers—keeps people happy and lingering longer.
  • Make It an Experience – Could you add something interactive? A live painting demo? A guest book where people leave thoughts and doodles? A surprise performance? Anything that makes your show stand out from the usual “art-on-walls” setup.

Step 5: Get People to Show Up (Because an Empty Show Is Just You, Sitting in a Room, Staring at the Wall)

You’ve got the art. You’ve got the space. Now you need people.

Start Promoting Two Months in Advance:

  • Social Media Slow Burn – Don’t just blast “COME TO MY SHOW” 50 times. Instead, tease the process—show your studio, works-in-progress, close-up details, behind-the-scenes struggles. Get people invested before you hit them with the invite.
  • Flyers & Posters Still Work – Drop them at local coffee shops, bookstores, community centers, anywhere cool people hang out.
  • Press Releases = Free Publicity – Send a short, punchy press release to local newspapers, blogs, radio stations. Many will cover local events for free—but only if they know about it.
  • Event Listings Are Your Friend – Most cities have free event calendars online. Use them.
  • The One-Week Hype Bomb – In the final week, go all in with reminders, countdowns, last-minute teasers. The goal? Create excitement and urgency.

Step 6: The Show Itself (AKA: Don’t Panic and Just Enjoy It)

  • Don’t Stress About Sales – People hate being pressured. Just enjoy the night. If someone loves your work, they’ll ask. And if they don’t buy now, they might later—especially if the experience sticks with them.
  • Be Present, Not Salesy – Instead of pushing for a sale, share stories about your work. People connect with why you made something, not just what it is.
  • Thank People for Coming – Even if they don’t buy anything. Even if they just wandered in off the street for free wine. Gratitude goes a long way.
  • Have a Way for People to Stay Connected – A sign-up sheet, a QR code to your website, business cards—something so they can follow your work after the show.

Final Thoughts: Make It Fun, Make It Memorable, and Just Go for It

Look, I get it—putting on a solo show is scary. But it’s also one of the most rewarding things you can do as an artist. You’re creating an experience, sharing your work, and showing the world that you’re serious about this art thing.

So plan it well, make it an event people talk about, and most importantly—have fun with it.

Now go forth and make some art magic happen.

Have a solo show coming up? Tell me about it in the comments.

Watch The Video I created About Having A Solo Art SHow:

Posted on by — 7 Comments

The Artist’s Eternal Battle Against “Helpful” Advice

There’s a universal truth about being an artist: at some point, you will find yourself sitting across from a random business “expert” who has absolutely no idea what to do with you.

This isn’t to say business programs are all bad—some programs out there are fantastic for small creative businesses. But every now and then, the system spits out someone whose entire entrepreneurial philosophy is deeply allergic to creativity.

Take, for instance, my brilliant artist friends—creative powerhouses who could probably design an entire alternate universe if left alone in a room with enough coffee and a glue gun. They dabble in a variety of art—puppet-building, drawing, painting, animation, candle-making, writing, and photography. Storytelling is at the heart of everything they do, whether through short stories, photographs, puppetry, or a collection of unique candle scents. Their mission is simple: create something fun and unique to share with the world while embracing a life of adventure, travel, and boundless creativity.

Early in my career, I was told I was wasting my time and needed to get a real job.

They recently got into a really good business program that would give them access to a business coach, which sounds great in theory. A chance to learn, expand, and take their art to the next level. Except… the coach was the human embodiment of a beige PowerPoint presentation on “synergy.”

My friends, fueled by artistic chaos and brilliance, met with this coach, eager to share their vision. The response?

“Puppets are dead.”

I repeat: puppets. are. dead.

Now, I don’t know about you, but last time I checked, puppets were very much alive, thriving, and probably plotting world domination (because have you met puppeteers? They have plans). The coach then proceeded to tell them that pretty much, everything they were doing was wrong—not “needing refinement,” not “requiring a strategic tweak,” just wrong.

Puppets are not dead.

I’m sure he didn’t mean to sound like a robot programmed to discourage anyone who doesn’t sell widgets at Walmart, but let’s be real—this is a tale as old as time.

Artists and the Box That Does Not Fit

The biggest battle for artists isn’t making art. It’s dealing with people who just don’t get it. Many people love art and artists. But some have no idea what actual art is. Those people like art only in safe, pre-approved formats:

  • Big blockbuster movies? Love it.
  • Art prints at Target? Aesthetic!
  • Pre-made sculptures made out of recycled toaster parts with an interactive light show? What is this sorcery?

Too many business “experts” view creative careers through the lens of traditional marketing strategies. They want to fit us into their pre-cut, shrink-wrapped boxes, and if we don’t fit? Well, obviously, it’s because we’re wrong.

It’s frustrating, it’s exhausting, and it’s deeply stupid. Because here’s the thing:

  • Art is not meant to fit in a box.
  • Art is not safe.
  • Art is the wild, untamed, chaotic force that dares to bring something new into the world.

That’s why artists struggle when they encounter people who insist on the “proven” way of doing things. Those “proven” methods only work for things that already exist. But we’re here to create what doesn’t exist yet.

If we followed the “rules,” we wouldn’t have surrealism, street art, or the entire concept of animation (which, fun fact, was also declared “a waste of time” once).

Persistence is the only thing that shuts people up.

The Real Problem: Judgment Disguised as Advice

Let’s be honest, the hardest part of being an artist isn’t the work—it’s the constant judgment. It’s the well-meaning “concern” from people who act like we’re throwing our lives away because we don’t have a LinkedIn profile filled with business achievements.

It’s the casual dismissals. The naysaying. The patronizing conversations where someone talks to you as if you’re a wayward toddler instead of a highly skilled creative professional.

And I get it. It stings. It’s frustrating. It makes you want to throw a puppet at someone’s head just to prove that, no, they are not dead.

But I want you to remember something very important: their opinions do not define your potential.

At the end of the day, no one has walked in your shoes. No one knows what you are capable of. No one can tell you what’s possible unless you let them.

If they don’t get it? That’s their loss. There are plenty of people who will.

Artists are the kinds of people who figure their own way of doing things.

Some Advice for When the World Doesn’t Get You

  1. Trust Your Vision – If your ideas excite you, they are worth pursuing. The greatest creative breakthroughs have always started as something that others dismissed as too weird, too different, or too impractical. Keep going.
  2. Consider the Source – If someone gives you advice, ask yourself: does this person have experience in what I do? Do they understand the creative world? If not, take their words with a grain of salt. Some people give advice because they want to help. Others do it because they can’t handle anything outside of their own limited perspective.
  3. Remember, Everything New is “Impossible” at First – The lightbulb was ridiculous before it worked. The internet was a joke before it changed the world. Animation was “silly” before it became a multi-billion dollar industry. Every great idea looks strange to the people who can’t see beyond what already exists.
  4. Surround Yourself with People Who Get It – There will always be voices telling you to stop, to do something safer, to follow the well-worn path. The key is to tune them out and listen instead to the people who understand your vision—the ones who push you forward instead of holding you back.
  5. Let Rejection Be Your Fuel – If someone tells you it can’t be done, take that as a personal challenge. The best revenge against doubters is to succeed in a way they never saw coming.
  6. Create Anyway – At the end of the day, art is about making something because it needs to exist. Whether the world is ready for it or not, whether the business experts approve or not, whether it fits in their box or not—create anyway. Because what you make might be the very thing that changes everything.

So go forth and keep making things that don’t fit in a box. The world needs you, even if some people are too narrow-minded to see it.

Posted on by — 7 Comments

Why Keep Going As An Artist

I had someone reach out recently and tell me they were thinking about quitting their art because it felt too hard. That kind of message always hits me right in the gut. The last thing the world needs right now is one less creative force of nature. If you’re feeling the weight of it all, remember this: the world is already tough enough—your art is the spark that makes it brighter, more human, more alive. Don’t let the struggle dim that spark. Keep going. The world needs what only you can create.

Let’s face it—being an artist is not for the faint of heart. While others might spend their days carefully avoiding rejection and criticism, we dive in headfirst, like daredevils without a parachute. Why? Because creating art isn’t just something we do—it’s who we are. It’s how we breathe, dream, and exist. And with that level of vulnerability comes a unique kind of chaos that only creative humans can understand.

Your Art, Served with a Side of Judgment

Every painting, song, sculpture, or doodle you share feels like offering a piece of your soul to the world on a platter. And sometimes the world responds with applause. Other times? A big ol’ “Meh.” It stings, but you learn to roll with it because creating isn’t about universal approval—it’s about expression. Still, it’s hard not to take it personally when someone shrugs at the thing you stayed up until 3 a.m. pouring your heart into. Rejection? Yeah, we eat that for breakfast.

The Art of Financial Juggling

Then there’s the financial tightrope walk. Let’s not sugarcoat it—money is a touchy subject in the art world. One month, you might sell a piece for enough to pay your rent and indulge in celebratory tacos. The next month, you’re scavenging for loose change and wondering if ramen noodles are still 25 cents a pack (spoiler: they’re not).

But here’s the crazy, magical thing: in these moments, you learn to create your own sense of security. You realize that your resourcefulness is a superpower. Yes, it’s terrifying to live in a world where nothing feels guaranteed, but it’s also empowering. You’re not waiting for a paycheck from someone else; you’re building a life on your own terms. And there’s a rebellious kind of pride in that.

The “Real Job” Conundrum

Ah, society. Let’s talk about the charming way it loves to belittle creativity. “Oh, you’re an artist? That’s nice, but what’s your real job?” If I had a dollar for every time someone asked me that, I’d be lounging in a hammock on my private island right now.

Why is it so hard for people to see the value in what we do? Maybe it’s because art doesn’t always come with a dollar sign attached. Maybe it’s because the world’s definition of success is built around 9-to-5 jobs, retirement plans, and measurable productivity. But guess what? The world needs art. It needs beauty, inspiration, and the courage to dream bigger. And that’s what we bring to the table—no corporate ladder required.

Why We Keep Going

So, why do we do it? Why do we keep creating in a world that’s sometimes indifferent, often dismissive, and occasionally brutal? Because we have to. Because art is our way of processing life, connecting with others, and leaving a mark on the world.

It’s not easy, but it’s worth it. Every “Meh,” every financial freakout, and every “real job” comment just adds fuel to the fire. We create because it’s who we are, and that’s something no amount of criticism, ramen dinners, or societal doubt can take away.

So here’s to us—the brave, slightly insane souls who dare to make art in a world that doesn’t always understand it. Keep going, keep creating, and remember: your work matters, even on the days when it feels like no one is watching.

Posted on by — 4 Comments

Life, Love, and the Beauty of Shared Madness

When Klee and I met in 2009, there was a spark—a universe-altering moment that, if you blinked, you might have missed. Except we didn’t miss it. We jumped in headfirst, feet never touching the ground. Within weeks, we were on the road, leaving behind everything we knew for a life we couldn’t quite define but felt in our bones. People called it crazy. Honestly, they weren’t wrong, but it was the best kind of crazy—the kind that makes life worth living.

This week, while Klee healed and started getting her energy back, I dug through some old files and stumbled across pictures of us in our Florida studio. The photographer (Kristian Breeze) asked us to “just be ourselves,” and these snapshots are proof we took that direction seriously. It’s just us—playful, weird, and totally in love with life and each other. We had already been together eight years when those photos were taken. Eight years of creating, dreaming, failing spectacularly, dusting ourselves off, and trying again.

Looking at those photos reminded me how extraordinary this journey has been. Neither of us knew what would happen when we packed up that truck all those years ago. We only knew one thing: we were all in. Together.

If I had listened to my head back then, none of this would have happened. My head had all the reasons why this was a terrible idea. It had a checklist of why leaving my old corporate life behind, taking risks, and chasing what felt right in my gut was doomed to fail. My head was also telling me that it wasn’t a good idea to get into a relationship at this time. My head had a lot of warnings, and some of them even made sense. But my heart and my gut? They knew better.

When my mom said, “You found someone who is your kind of crazy,” I thought she was joking. But she wasn’t. She was right. I leap before I look. I barrel into projects I have no business starting because some voice inside whispers, You’ll figure it out. And I do. But it’s only because Klee is there rooting for me (no matter how insane my ideas are)—my partner, my best friend, and quite possibly the most amazing human I’ve ever met.

These last few months have been tough. Watching her go through health struggles has been hard, but I’ve been amazed by her strength, her quiet determination, and her ability to stay hopeful, even when things seemed uncertain. I’ve thought a lot about how much she’s impacted my life, how much better the world feels with her in it, and how grateful I am that we found each other.

Your heart doesn’t deal in logic; it speaks the language of passion and purpose. Your gut doesn’t care about the odds; it’s tuned into something deeper—something that tells you where you’re meant to go, even if it doesn’t make sense on paper.

Following your heart and gut doesn’t mean you won’t fail. Oh, you will. Trust me, we’ve failed a lot. But it’s through those failures that we’ve built the life we have now—one filled with art, music, community, love, and memories we wouldn’t trade for anything.

To our community—our tribe of beautiful, creative, supportive humans who love us and our art—you’ve made this journey even more incredible. Whether you’ve cheered us on from the sidelines, joined our Patreon, or simply sent us good vibes when we needed them most, you’ve been a part of our story. Thank you for believing in us, for laughing with us, for showing up.

Klee is eager to get back into the studio next week. We still have a long healing road ahead, but we’re on it together, and that’s what matters.

So here’s the food for thought I promised: Sometimes your head will try to talk you out of the very thing your soul is calling you to do. It will give you reasons, statistics, and worst-case scenarios. But your heart and your gut? They’ll whisper truths that logic can’t touch. Trust them. Trust yourself. Because the best adventures—the ones that lead to love, creativity, and the kind of life you’ll look back on with a smile—don’t come from playing it safe. They come from leaping into the unknown and trusting you’ll figure it out along the way.

Stay weird, stay wonderful, and follow your heart. The horizon is waiting.

With love and gratitude,
Rafi (and Klee, who will be back to feeling awesome in no time)

CONGRATUALATIONS ALIYU!

Posted on by — 10 Comments

We Have Good News – Update On Klee

There’s nothing quite like starting your day at 4 AM with a little colonoscopy prep, right? That’s exactly how our morning began today. Klee had to chug the second half of her “magic potion,” a gallon jug of juice whose sole purpose is to clear the digestive battlefield. Being the supportive partner I am, I got up too, brewed myself a coffee, and then, in what can only be described as a moment of overachieving empathy (or sleep-deprived bad judgment), I reached for a cup of prune juice to ease my tiny bout with morning constipation. Why? Solidarity? Curiosity? Let’s go with “too early to think.”

This might be TMI, but between Klee’s marathon with the prep solution and my own questionable beverage choice, let’s say this morning turned into an interesting symphony of, well, activity. Hey, it’s all part of the real-life charm we like to share with you. Sorry not sorry.

Early Morning On Our Way To Meadville Hospital

By 7:30 AM, with the front of the house freshly shoveled (by yours truly) to avoid any snow-related mishaps, we hopped in the car and headed to Meadville Hospital. Normally a 45-minute drive, the snow decided to extend that journey to just over an hour. If you’re imagining us cruising serenely through a winter wonderland, stop. Picture instead two people nervously watching the clock like hawks, hoping there’d be a bathroom nearby if the “magic potion” and “poor beverage choice” still had unfinished business.

Despite the nerves, the weather, and desperately “holding it”, we made it to the hospital without incident. The staff was wonderful, and before long, Klee was prepped for her first experience going under anesthesia. For those curious, her feedback on the experience was enthusiastic and brief: “Wow, this is…” followed by an immediate plunge into dreamland.

I was losing my mind waiting during Klee’s procedure but the nurses brought me coffee and were super nice.

After the procedure, the doctor gave me the update: Klee’s colon is still 90% inflamed but healing. There were no signs of anything cancerous, which was a massive relief. He took a biopsy and scheduled additional tests, but the path forward seems promising. The best part of the day? Watching Klee’s face light up as she emerged from the anesthesia, clutching a chocolate pudding cup like it was the greatest treasure on earth. Her joy was contagious—chocolate pudding has never been so celebrated.

This makes chocolate pudding look like the elixir of the gods

On our way home, we picked up some supplies just in time for another round of heavy snow. I’d like to point out the irony here: after my early-morning shoveling efforts, the snow returned in full force. I’m trying to laugh about it, but really, snow? Really?

Back at home, I made Klee some soup—her first real meal after a marathon of clear liquids. Watching her enjoy it was like watching someone rediscover the joy of food. The sparkle in her eyes is something I’ve missed, and seeing her feel a little better—even if it’s a small step—means everything.

Really snow? I just shoveled all of that!

Tonight, we’re taking it easy. I’ve decided to take the day off and not get in the studio. Dinner is happening early, and for the first time, we’re watching The Sound of Music together. (Yes, she’s never seen it, and yes, she’s very excited!) It’s been a long day, but it’s ending on a warm, cozy note.

It’s easy to get wrapped up in worry, frustration, or the uncertainty of what’s ahead, but today was a reminder to pause and notice the beauty in the now. The way Klee’s face lit up at the thought of food. The shared giggle when we both realized prune juice solidarity was maybe not the wisest idea. The simple comfort of planning a cozy evening with a classic movie. These moments might seem small, but they’re the ones that carry us through the bigger challenges.

Life will always have its curveballs, whether it’s a health scare, a snowstorm, or just the daily grind. But it’s in these moments of connection and humor that we find our strength. Even on the hard days, there’s so much to be grateful for—each laugh, each hug, each shared glance that says, We’ve got this.

To everyone who has sent us love and support, thank you. It’s hard to put into words how much it means to us, especially during times like this. We’ll keep you posted on Klee’s progress, we should know more in 7 days. And to those waiting on jewelry orders, we appreciate your patience. Klee is eager to get back in the studio, but her health is not there yet.

Until then, we’re taking things one step (and one pudding cup. Yes, we bought some on the way home) at a time. Thanks for being part of our journey, and here’s hoping for fewer snowstorms and more good news ahead.

Posted on by — 10 Comments

Why We’ve Been MIA and What It Means

This year has been an adventure, a challenge, and, at times, downright overwhelming. We’re incredibly grateful for the support and patience you’ve shown us as we’ve navigated some unexpected obstacles. With that in mind, I want to update you on a change to the shipping schedule for Dear Artist, Don’t Give Up. The new shipping date is December 11, 2024.

The Reality of Life Behind the Scenes

Full disclosure: Klee hasn’t been feeling well for a few months. I don’t want to go into details of what’s going on, and doctors don’t believe it’s anything serious, but it has disrupted things a bit. We’ve had to cancel some plans and are doing our best to navigate through it all. As you can imagine, this has taken a toll on both of us emotionally, physically, and mentally.

You may have noticed that we’ve been a bit MIA from YouTube, and for our members, Patreon activity has slowed down. To be honest, I’ve struggled to motivate myself, let alone inspire anyone else, amidst everything we’ve been going through. We’ve had to cancel some plans and are doing our best to navigate things financially during this time.

The Annual Holiday Sale

One tradition we’re determined to keep going is our virtual holiday sale. Every year, it’s a way for us to connect with you, share our work, and spread some joy. This year, the sale is scheduled for December 8th, 2024, and we’re doing everything we can to make sure it happens as planned. Your support during these sales is invaluable, not just financially, but as a reminder of the amazing community we’ve built together.

The Book Journey and Its Meaning

When I wrote Dear Artist, Don’t Give Up, I had no idea how much of its message I’d need to hear myself this year. The words about persistence, self-compassion, and navigating the chaos of life resonate louder than ever. This delay is just another chapter in the story—one where patience, flexibility, and support from all of you make all the difference.

What You Can Expect

Here’s what the new timeline looks like:

We’re committed to ensuring this book reaches you in its best form, packed with all the care and intention it deserves.

Thank You for Your Understanding

To everyone who’s pre-ordered the book, supported our work, or simply reached out with kindness—thank you. Your encouragement fuels us on the hard days and reminds us why we do what we do. Life has its curveballs, but having a community of creative humans like you makes the journey worthwhile.

We’ll keep you posted on stuff. In the meantime, we’re focusing on taking care of what matters most and trusting the process, even when it feels messy.

Thank you for being part of this story. It means the world to us. ❤️

Posted on by — 4 Comments

A Special Thank You From Rafi And Klee

Ah, Thanksgiving. The day of turkey, stretchy pants, and giving thanks—or at least, that’s the idea. For us here at Rafi and Klee Studios, it’s a day like any other, which means we’ll be knee-deep in projects, books, murals, and jewelry. We’re also in full prep mode for our Virtual Holiday Sale on December 8th, so if you thought today was all about pie and parades for us, think again. We might cook up something special later (because why not?), but for the most part, we’re staying right here, at home, doing our thing.

Thanksgiving, for us, isn’t about big gatherings or fields of cornucopia. Our tradition? We sit down with a cup of something warm, and we make a big ol’ list of everything we appreciate. It’s a grounding ritual—an anchor amidst the whirlwind of life. One of the top things on that list is the fact that we’re breathing. Seriously. If you’re reading this, congratulations! You’ve mastered the art of respiration. Cheers to that, my friends.

It’s funny how easy it is to forget what we’ve accomplished, to get wrapped up in the what-ifs and not-yets. But today reminds us to stop and look around, to recognize what’s working, what’s growing, and what brings us joy. Gratitude is powerful. It’s like a warm hug for your soul (and way less awkward than an actual hug, especially if you’re an introvert like us).

Now, let’s talk about the holiday itself. Thanksgiving, as the story goes, began as a harvest feast in 1621 between the Wampanoag people and the English colonists. These days, most of us aren’t toiling away in fields, giving thanks for a good harvest. So what do we celebrate? The answer is simple: everything we appreciate. Whether it’s the small victories, the people in our lives, or the fact that we didn’t burn our toast this morning, there’s always something worth raising a glass—or a coffee mug—to.

Speaking of appreciation, here’s a big one: you. You, who support us, cheer us on, and share in our weird, wonderful journey. You inspire us, encourage us, and remind us why we do what we do. You’re like a breath of fresh air, a ray of sunlight in the crazy, unpredictable world of two artists chasing their dreams.

So, from the bottom of our quirky hearts, thank you. You mean the world to us, and we adore you more than words can express.

Happy Thanksgiving, creative humans. May your day be filled with love, laughter, and gratitude—and maybe a little bit of pie.

With love and appreciation,
Rafi & Klee