Category: BOOK UPDATES From Rafi And Klee

Welcome to “Rogue Artist Books by Rafi News,” your dedicated source for all updates and news related to the captivating book series by Rafi from Rafi and Klee Studios. Here, we dive deep into the world of the Rogue Artist, sharing insights, sneak peeks, and exclusive content about upcoming releases, special editions, and author events. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, this blog ensures you stay connected to all things related to Rafi’s groundbreaking books. Join us to explore the journey of a Rogue Artist, and be the first to know about the latest developments!

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Dear Artist, The Wait is Almost Over!

Hello, my beautiful creative human family! I’m thrilled to finally announce that the pre-order books for Dear Artist, Letters From A Rogue is on track to be released on October 25th, 2024—mark your calendars, set your alarms, and prepare your victory dances!

Currently, I’m wrapping up my ridiculous yet totally motivational doodles for the book (yes, there will be some silly Rafi-style art because, well, how could there not be?). Klee and I are gearing up for a marathon editing session next week. This is the final stretch before we place the order for our very special pre-release edition of the book. It’s Raw Rafi and Klee, uncensored, unscripted, and undeniably rogue!

Now, here’s the fun part! This is for a special pre-order release of the book. I’m ordering 50 extra books, so you can pre-order a special edition signed copy. For $25, you’ll get:

  • A special pre-release edition of the book, signed by yours truly (and Klee!)
  • A fancy-pants motivational poster for artists (because who doesn’t love wall art?)
  • An MP3 audiobook read by me—yes, in my full Rafi voice (laughs, mispronunciations, and all)
  • A Rogue Artist bookmark (because how else will you keep your place while reading my brilliant words?)

But that’s not all! This is your chance to get the Raw Rafi and Klee version, before we send it out to the copyeditor. So, you’ll be getting our thoughts straight from our hearts to yours—raw, real, and a little bit wild. It’s like getting the director’s cut of a movie, but way cooler because it’s us.

And for those of you who miss the pre-order—don’t worry! The book will be released to the public via Amazon Books and other book retailers in mid-November 2024. But trust me, the pre-order is where the magic (and special extras) are at!

This book has been such a joy to create. Writing it has been a mix of heartfelt reflections, some good ol’ panic sessions, and plenty of rogue wisdom to inspire you to conquer your world. I’m sure you’ll laugh, cry, and leave feeling like you can take on the universe—artist cape fluttering in the wind.

So go ahead, pre-order your copy, and let’s make this release epic. Thank you all for your endless support, your patience, and your amazing energy. We’re almost there! The finish line is in sight, and I can’t wait to cross it with all of you by my side!

Much love and rogue vibes,
Rafi

ORDER YOUR BOOK HERE:

Dear Artists, Don't Give Up! Letters From A Rogue Signed Book

Dear Artists, Don’t Give Up! Letters From A Rogue Signed Book

Dear Artist, Don’t Give Up is the kick in the pants every creative needs! Packed with heartfelt advice, snarky humor, and personal stories from a rogue artist who’s been there, done that, and probably painted it, this book is your trusty sidekick on the wild ride of the artist’s life. Whether you’re battling self-doubt, struggling with rejection, or just need a good laugh, this guide w…

Original price was: $25.00.Current price is: $20.00.

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How to Survive a Book Fair When You Have No Books

Tomorrow is the big day. The day when authors from near and far gather to showcase their literary masterpieces, engage with eager readers, and bask in the glory of their own written words. It’s the Festival of the Book in front of the Oil City Library, and I will be there… with a grand total of (drumroll, please) a tiny handful of books. Yes, you read that right, Don’t let the image above fool you. I have a TINY handful. As in, I could probably carry them all in one arm while simultaneously sipping coffee and waving at passersby with the other.

Now, you might be wondering, “But Rafi, didn’t you order your books in advance like a responsible author?” Ah, yes, my inquisitive reader, I did! I placed that precious order a week before the fair, full of hope and confidence that the literary gods would smile upon me and deliver my bounty in time. But alas, as the universe often likes to remind me, things don’t always go according to plan. Especially when books typically take a month to arrive.

The funny thing is, my original plan was nothing short of epic. I was going to stroll into this book fair like a champion, with a mountain of books at my side and my shiny new book Dear Artist, Letters From A Rogue fresh off the press. I had visions of readers clamoring for copies, a line of eager fans snaking around the block, and me standing there, basking in the glow of my own literary brilliance. But as fate would have it, deadlines got pushed back, life happened, and before I knew it, the festival was upon us.

Since 2017, I’ve worn the badge of “published author” with pride, and at one glorious point, my book even soared to the number one spot on Amazon books. You’d think by now I’d have this whole “promote your book” thing down to a science, right? After all, I’ve built a successful art career from scratch, clawing my way up through the ranks of the creative world. But here’s the kicker: not all creativity is created equal.

When it comes to my art, I’m like a shameless peacock strutting my stuff for the world to see. I can promote my paintings, sculptures, and wild ideas without breaking a sweat. But writing? Oh, writing is a whole different beast. And music? Don’t even get me started. The thought of putting myself out there as a writer or musician sends shivers down my spine, making me question every life decision that led me to this point.

So here I am, on the eve of the book fair, with a scant collection of books and a heart full of trepidation. You might think this would be the perfect opportunity to wallow in self-pity, curse my poor planning skills, and maybe even consider pulling a disappearing act tomorrow. But no, that’s not how we roll at Rafi and Klee Studios.

Instead, I’m choosing to embrace the situation with a sense of humor and a whole lot of resilience. Because here’s the truth: whether you’re playing music, sharing your books, or showing off your art, you have to work with what you’ve got and not wait around for perfection to magically fall into your lap. Life is messy, unpredictable, and often hilariously ironic. So why not lean into it?

Tomorrow, I’ll be out there in front of the Oil City Library, mingling with fellow authors who probably have more books than they know what to do with. I’ll be smiling, laughing, and sharing my words of wisdom (however questionable they may be) with anyone willing to listen. And I’ll be doing it all with my pathetically small stack of books in tow.

The lesson here? Don’t take it all so seriously. Have fun with it. Show up, do your best, and let the chips fall where they may. Perfection is overrated, and honestly, it’s way more fun to embrace the chaos. So if you’re in the area tomorrow between 10 AM and 2 PM, come on out to the Festival of the Book. Say “HOLA!” to your favorite (and possibly most underprepared) author, and let’s make the most of whatever this book fair throws our way.

When I say TINY, I mean like less than seven books

I’ll be the guy with the ridiculously small stack of books and a big ol’ smile, next to a beautiful human, ready to turn lemons into lemonade… or at least enjoy the moment.

Where: In front of the Oil City Library

What: The Festival of the Book

When: Tomorrow 8/24/24, from 10 AM to 2 PM EST

Why: Because there will be so many other amazing authors with amazing books who are actually prepared! Come for the books, stay for the fun, and maybe even hear me say something wise (or at least amusing) into a microphone. Hope to see you there!

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The Much Anticipated Dear Artist Book To Be Released On Sept 30th

Dear dream chasers,

I have a little announcement to make that comes with a mix of excitement and a dash of “oh well, here we go again.” My much-anticipated book, Dear Artist, Letters From A Rogue, is officially written and, trust me, it’s awesome! However, as the universe would have it, there are still a few finishing touches left to tackle—like images, formatting, and some copyediting. And yes, I was hoping to have those shiny new copies ordered by the beginning of this month, but alas, life had other plans.

So, drumroll, please… I’m pushing the release date to the end of September. Specifically, September 30th. Now, before you throw your paintbrushes in frustration, let me explain!

For about 8 months, my writing room became a battleground, and now it’s back to its former glory!

This year has been a wild ride, especially on the family front. Without diving too deep into the soap opera that unfolded in my living room, let’s just say Klee and I are in recovery mode after a marathon of “family stuff” that invaded our home for about eight months. It was like trying to balance an art career, music gigs, and writing a book while navigating around what felt like a live taping of Days of Our Lives. Yeah, it was that kind of year.

But here’s the good news: despite the chaos, the book is written and it’s better than I ever imagined. There are still some crucial steps left, like perfecting the images, nailing the formatting, and ensuring every comma is in place. And oh, did I mention I’m gearing up to record the audiobook next month? That way everyone that preordered will get a mp3 version of the book as well! I think I mentioned that, but it doesn’t hurt to mention it again.

So, why the delay? Simple logistics. It takes about a month to get the books printed and delivered. Since I couldn’t quite get everything done by early August, September 30th is our new, shiny target date. 

In the meantime, I’m juggling a few music and art gigs, but rest assured, I’m back on track and more focused than ever. This whole dramatic chapter in my life has taught me a valuable lesson. My advice to myself (and to anyone else who might find it useful): do what you do best and let others deal with their own drama. Creativity thrives best when it’s not being interrupted by the latest episode of “Who’s angry at who and for what?”

Luckily, we have good friends that help us put things in perspective.

To all of you who have been eagerly waiting to get your hands on this book, I appreciate your patience. I’m just as excited to share it with you as you are to read it. Thank you for understanding and sticking with me through this rollercoaster. September 30th is just around the corner, and I promise it will be worth the extra days of waiting.

Stay creative, stay rogue, and keep those creative juices ready. The best is yet to come!

Rafi

Dear Artists, Don't Give Up! Letters From A Rogue Signed Book

Dear Artists, Don’t Give Up! Letters From A Rogue Signed Book

Dear Artist, Don’t Give Up is the kick in the pants every creative needs! Packed with heartfelt advice, snarky humor, and personal stories from a rogue artist who’s been there, done that, and probably painted it, this book is your trusty sidekick on the wild ride of the artist’s life. Whether you’re battling self-doubt, struggling with rejection, or just need a good laugh, this guide w…

Original price was: $25.00.Current price is: $20.00.

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Exciting (And Not So Exciting) Updates for Everyone Who Preordered the Book!

Hello wonderful readers, artists, and supporters!

I have some exciting updates to share with you about the much-anticipated book “Dear Artist’s – Letter From A Rogue”. Your enthusiasm and patience mean the world to me, and I wanted to keep you in the loop about the latest developments. So, let’s dive right in!

The Good News

First off, I’ve been incredibly busy lately with a whirlwind of exhibitions, shows, and gathering fantastic material for the book. This has been an amazing journey, filled with inspiration and creativity as someone who is starting over in a new area of the country. Each experience has added depth and richness to the content, making this book something truly special. I am pouring my heart and soul into it, and I genuinely believe it will be one of the best books I’ve written.

But that’s not all! I have another piece of good news for everyone who preordered the book. Along with your physical copy, you will also receive an MP3 audiobook download with your order. This way, you can enjoy the book in whichever format suits you best.

The Bad News (With a Silver Lining)

Now, onto a bit of the not-so-good news. Due to my packed schedule new experiences, and the sheer amount of amazing material I’ve been gathering, the writing and recording process has slowed down more than I anticipated. This means that, unfortunately, I won’t be able to meet the original deadline of the end of June. I can buckle down and get the book out as is and it would still be a good book.

However, I’m committed to delivering a book that exceeds your expectations, and rushing the process just wouldn’t do it justice. Therefore, I have decided to extend the deadline to August 31st, 2024. This additional time will allow me to finish the book properly, ensure it’s thoroughly copyedited, and get the author copies ordered in time for packing and delivery.

Thank You for Your Patience

I truly appreciate your patience and understanding as I navigate this creative journey. Your support has been invaluable, and I’m grateful to have such a wonderful community behind me. If you have any questions or need further information, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Thank you for being with me on this journey of creating something special. I can’t wait for you to hold this book in your hands!

With gratitude and excitement,

Rafi

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Introducing “Dear Artists – Letters From A Rogue” – Pre-order Now!

I am absolutely thrilled to announce the upcoming release of my newest book, “Dear Artists – Letters From A Rogue,” and I invite you to join me on this exhilarating journey of creative exploration and self-discovery.

This book is exclusively designed to inspire you and help push through some of the obstacles you may be facing as a creative. It is now available for pre-ordering your special signed copy of “Dear Artists” along with a unique Rogue Artist Bookmark.

This book is more than just advice—it’s a rallying cry for every artist to reclaim their power, defy the status quo, and unleash their creativity with unbridled passion. Whether you’re grappling with creative blocks or seeking validation in a crowded art world, “Dear Artists” offers solace, guidance, and a reminder that you are not alone in your journey.

Special Pre-Order Editions:

These editions are extra special as they are part of a special print run personally picked up by me in Buffalo, New York. Each book will be signed, and if you desire, I would be delighted to include a personalized message – just let us know when you place your order. Your copy of the book will ship out after the end of May. The book will be released to the public on Amazon Books And Other Outlets in July 2024.

PRE-ORDER NOW

Click Here To Pre-Order Your Special Edition Signed Book

Here are the details of this exciting release:

BOOK DETAILS:

  • Series: The Rogue Artist Series (Book 4)
  • Title: Dear Artists, Letters From A Rogue
  • Paperback: 269 – 300 pages, Cover Color, Interior B/W
  • Publisher: Rafi & Klee Studios (May 31st, 2024)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: N/A
  • ISBN-13: N/A
  • Product Dimensions: 6 x 0.6 x 9 inches
  • Shipping Weight: 1 pound

Description Of My Book In Progress: “Dear Artists – Letters From A Rogue” is a heartfelt collection of letters born from my personal experiences and interactions with artists like yourself. Over the years, I’ve penned hundreds of responses to artists seeking guidance, support, and motivation. Now, these letters are compiled into a single volume bursting with wisdom, encouragement, and practical advice for navigating the creative journey.

Current Chapter List:

  • Introduction: A Letter from an Old Rogue Artist
  • Chapter 1: Embrace Your Unique Voice
  • Chapter 2: Defying the Critics
  • Chapter 3: Facing Fear And Doubt
  • Chapter 4: The Power of Persistence
  • Chapter 5: Navigating the Art Market
  • Chapter 6: Finding Your Tribe
  • Chapter 7: Overcoming Creative Blocks
  • Chapter 8: You Are Growing Into A Badass
  • Chapter 9: Balancing It All
  • Chapter 10: The Legacy of Your Art
  • Chapter 11: Dear Artist, Keep Going
  • Chapter 12: So, What Now?
PRE-ORDER NOW

Click Here To Pre-Order Your Special Edition Signed Book

Who Am I?

I’m Rafi Perez, a rogue artist on a mission to redefine the boundaries of creativity and inspire fellow artists to embrace their true selves. My journey in the art world has been unconventional, marked by a rebellious spirit and an unwavering commitment to authenticity.

The Rogue Artist Series serves as a manifesto for those who refuse to conform to the norms of the art establishment. And now, with “Dear Artists,” I aim to ignite the spark of creativity within each reader, encouraging them to break free from constraints and celebrate the beauty of their unique artistic expression.

Join me in the pages of “Dear Artists” as we embark on a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and unbridled creativity. Together, let’s redefine what it means to be an artist and embrace the joy of creating with authenticity and courage.

Pre-order your signed copy today and be among the first to experience the transformative power of “Dear Artists – Letters From A Rogue.”

You Rock And I Adore You,

-Rafi Perez

IF YOU ARE CURIOUS ABOUT MY OTHER BOOKS CLICK HERE!

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Desperation Gets You Nowhere

I have answered a lot of letters over the years from artists who want to know my opinion on living the artist’s life. I am compiling those letters into a book that I am very excited about. Here is one of those letters. This is a response to someone who wanted to give up because they did a couple of art shows and didn’t sell anything. 

Dear Artist,

Greetings and creative vibes to you today! After reading your letter, I found myself immersed in a thought that I believe is crucial for us as artists, creators, and individuals on this incredible journey. It’s all about how we convey our message to the world – whether it’s through our art, at shows, on social media, or any other form of expression.

I know people out there may say to paste on a smile and keep presenting yourself to the world that way. That people will follow people that are confident and showing off the highlight reel is important. That is a terrible way to live and it is quite isolating. Instead, let’s focus on something deeper… something real – the way we communicate. Whether you’re selling at a show or creating content, your true feelings are bound to seep into your message. It’s like the lines between the lines, subtly revealing your emotions, no matter how hard you try to mask them.

You’re at a show, desperately trying to sell your creations. Feeling ignored and at wit’s end, you try to interact with people in a way that will bring a sale. Despite your friendly facade, that desperation is what people will sense. It puts them off. What is churning underneath will always come to the surface no matter how hard you try to hide it.

In that moment you feel victimized by the unfairness of it all. The desperation takes over. You NEED to sell something, you NEED to be validated, and You NEED to prove that you are good enough. However, in every situation, you have a choice – to feel like a victim or to feel empowered. You can either let circumstances and outcomes control you, or you can embrace your power, make decisions, and shape your own narrative.

When you feel stuck, when those clouds of doubt or stress loom over, they have the power to tarnish your outlook and hinder your creativity. But, here’s the thing – your priorities, your creative energy, they are yours to define. It’s all about the message you’re putting out there, not who is listening.

In our creative pursuits, we often face challenges, struggles, and uncertainties. But here’s the secret sauce – you have the ability to choose how you react to anything. You can either let these challenges define you, or you can rise above the noise.

I have shown my art at festivals and galleries hundreds of times, and I can tell you that there will be days when nothing happens. No sales, no conversations, no attention, and no validation. In those moments, you have to go inside and determine how you can take that experience and make it a powerful motivator to keep going. How it is all a notch on your belt and necessary for the evolution of becoming an artist who is unstoppable by circumstance.

I understand that society doesn’t often encourage us to explore and express our true feelings, the overarching emotional state that colors our interactions. Yet, it’s there, it’s palpable, and people can sense it. So, let’s be intentional about the energy we project into the world. Most importantly, the energy we project into ourselves.

Remember, we all have struggles, and that’s okay. What matters most is how you choose to face them. Self-sabotage is a real thing, and the first step to overcoming it is acknowledging it. So, let’s stand strong, confront our challenges, and convey our messages with unwavering confidence. It is in those moments of darkness that we can find our power.

I believe in you, but take these opportunities to believe in yourself. Take these opportunities to show yourself how strong you are. Take these opportunities to pick yourself back up and move forward despite the obstacles.

I adore you,
Rafi Perez

DEAR ARTIST, LETTERS FROM A ROGUE

Please let me know your thoughts below.

MY NEW BOOK

AVAILABLE FOR SPECIAL PRE-ORDER CLICK HERE
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Rolling into 2024: Unleashing Awesomeness and Embracing Change!

As we kick off 2024 and wave a cheerful goodbye to 2023, I can’t help but take a moment to reflect on the wild ride that was last year. Boy, did we go on an adventure! We showcased our artwork at a virtual event, rocked a book fair, dropped some groovy music videos, laid down fresh tunes, hosted an epic workshop for artists, and even graced the stage with some live speaking events. Not too shabby, right?

But, hold up! Amidst all the glitter and glam, there’s a little something missing from that list—new artwork. Yup, I confess. Although I managed to sneak into the studio a few times, it wasn’t the art extravaganza I’d dreamed of for 2023. And let’s face it, having that studio time is like a therapeutic dance for the soul. I am missing it. I typically get in the studio about 4 to 5 days a week, however last year I was lucky to get in there for a day.

As an artist, I’ve come to realize that the studio is more than just a room with art supplies; it’s my haven, my escape. It’s where I unload the quirks of life and let my creativity run wild. Last year, however, the art vibes were a bit off, and I found myself craving more studio time than I got.

So, what’s the deal, you ask? I got in over my head with a website that turned into a glitchy rollercoaster, demanding my attention like a clingy friend. I found myself playing firefighter, putting out technical fires left and right. And guess what? The art studio, my personal paradise, got neglected. This also affected us financially since we do art for a living. No art, no making a living. More importantly, I was making things more difficult for myself by holding onto the idea that I NEEDED to do this.

So, we let the glitchy time-consuming project go.

Now, why am I laying it all out for you? Because, I want you to join me on the reflection train. Take a look at your 2023 – the highs, the lows, the sideways somersaults. Reevaluate, recalibrate, and make sure it feels good. Focus on the day-to-day dance of joy.

As creatives, we’re like wizards in our art studios, casting spells with every stroke of the brush. But if there’s anything messing with that magic, it’s time for a shake-up. Make getting into the studio a priority, not an afterthought.

If creating art isn’t your jam, no worries! Find that thing that sparks your excitement and lose yourself in it. Maybe it’s hitting the trails for a hike, diving into a gripping novel, or even mastering the art of staring at the clouds. The possibilities are endless.

Whether you’re into art creating, gardening, cooking up a storm in the kitchen, strumming a guitar, or even geeking out over the latest video games, the self-love things you do are the secret sauce that adds flavor to your life. In the hustle and bustle of everyday chaos, it’s easy to push these joys to the sidelines. But guess what? It’s high time to reclaim that precious time for the things that make your heart sing.

So, here’s your golden ticket to joy: make a date with your special things. Seriously, schedule it in your calendar, set a reminder, and treat it like a VIP appointment with your happiness. Just as I’m prioritizing my studio time, you should carve out those moments for your passions.

Whether you’re nurturing a green thumb in the garden or experimenting with a new recipe in the kitchen, these activities are your personal playgrounds of joy. Remember, life is not just about the hustle; it’s about the dance, the laughter, and the pure enjoyment of doing what you love.

Last year, I got stuck in a loop, surrounded by projects I couldn’t touch because I was stuck behind a computer. Why? Fear of change, the dread of letting people down. I’ve shouted the mantra “persist through the suck,” but here’s the kicker—it doesn’t mean sticking with something you don’t want to do.

Motivations can be tricky devils, pushing us to greatness or chaining us to something that sucks the joy out of life. So, let’s be rogues! Rip that metaphorical band-aid off, reevaluate what’s holding you back, and dance into the year with joy in your heart.

We love the Rogues!

I am happy to say that this year our Rogue membership and our awesome Rogues have moved back to Patreon. This has already given me more time to create and we are only two weeks into the new year. If you have been thinking about supporting the content that we put out there for artists, that will be the place to do it. Plus, you get all kinds of cool stuff weekly from us that is exclusive to our members. Join us on Patreon!

As for now, I am excited about some new art projects that are currently in the works. I have a series of sculptures, new paintings, and a new book that will be releasing in the next few months. I can;t wait to share them with you! Expect a tidal wave of awesomeness this year! Klee and I are buzzing with excitement to run our revamped Patreon, juggle some mind-blowing new art, new songs, and finally unleash those projects that have been chilling on the back burner. Get ready for a rollercoaster of creativity and joy!

Stay awesome, rockstars! See you soon with some fresh, mind-blowing awesomeness!

New Book Coming Soon!
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Dear Naysayers , The Rogue Artist Books Are Number 1 On Amazon

I am so stoked to announce that my books have been released and we hit number 1 in the business of art! As you may already know, back in 2019 I faced a creative fear and put out my first book. I named it the Rogue Artist’s Survival Guide. This book carried within it my mindset and approach to being an artist. I talk about the fear, criticism, rejection, and comparison in this whole artistic life that we pursue. However, I also talk about the power that comes when you overcome and face your challenges head on. The book in itself was a testament to that.

I have always dreamed of being a writer. As a small child, I would write and design books on scraps of paper. That was until a family member told me it was a waste of time and I would never succeed as a writer. Releasing that book gave me back my power and allowed me to give the middle finger to anyone that said I would not succeed. Not only can we all succeed at what we set our mind on, but we can surpass even our own expectations.

2019 When I Released My First Book

Honestly, the only person that can stop you from achieving your dreams is you. If you believe the naysayers, then you are stopping yourself from fulfilling your destiny. People say stuff all the time for one reason or another. If I believed them, I would not have an art career, I wouldn’t be in love with my best friend, and I wouldn’t have released a series of books. Only you can decide what limits you, and truly the possibilities are endless.

My books are available on Amazon books and on our website… and despite the naysayers, they will be available in bookstores by the end of the year.

Live your dreams and be the force of nature that is you.