If 2025 was the year we hit the “slow-mo” button, 2026 is the year we accidentally sat on the “ludicrous speed” remote. We are back, we are ready, and we’ve added so many new things to the website and our calendar that my planner is currently a mess I can barely read.
There is a lot to cover, so grab a snack (and maybe a protective apron) because here is the breakdown of what’s happening in our world for 2026.
The “Social Butterfly” Tour: Markets & Shows
Klee and I love our studio time. It’s our sanctuary, our happy place, and frankly, the only place where it’s socially acceptable to have blue paint in my beard. But this year, we’re stepping out of the cave a little more!
- The Curb Market: Starting in June, you can find us at the weekly Curb Market right here in Oil City. We’ll be there with art, smiles, and probably a very specific type of morning delirium that only exists at outdoor markets.
- The Exchange Takeover: We are officially taking the reins on Art Night At The Exchange! We’ve had a total blast at every event there so far, so we decided to crank it up. Expect a fun Art Night every single month, plus… wait for it… a monthly open call art exhibition and reception. It’s going to be a revolving door of incredible local talent, and we can’t wait to see what the amazing artists in our area create.
- Mural Fest? (Keep your fingers crossed!): We are currently in talks with Mainstreet and the Mural Board about bringing a brand-new event to town: Mural Fest. Imagine the town covered in fresh color and massive creativity. We are working hard to make this happen, so stay tuned for updates!
We’re Back on Your Screens (and in Your Ears!)
For those who have missed our faces (and our tangents), we have big news: We are officially back on YouTube! We’ve missed the camera, and we’ve missed you. We are jumping back in with both feet and relaunching our videos and the podcast. Whether you want to watch us navigate a disaster in the studio or listen to us talk shop about the creative life while you work on your own masterpieces, we’ll be there. Head over to the channel and make sure those notifications are on!
Community & Collaboration (The “Art Syndicate”?)
Speaking of talent, we’ve officially started a local art group called The Art Syndicate. It sounds very mysterious and “underground,” doesn’t it? In reality, it’s a gathering of creative minds joining forces to support one another, share resources, and make sure the local art scene stays weird and wonderful.
We’re also continuing our work at St. Stephen’s School. We absolutely love those kids! Their lack of “creative ego” and pure joy for making a mess is a constant reminder of why we started doing this in the first place. Teaching them isn’t just a job; it’s a bi-monthly recharge for our own creative batteries.
The Virtual World: Patreon & Beyond
For those of you who aren’t local to Oil City and have joined our online community don’t worry, we haven’t forgotten you! We are leaning into our Patreon more than ever this year.
- Weekly Hangouts: We’re doing weekly private livestreams and group meetings that range from deep-dive art talks to “what on earth are Rafi and Klee creating now?”
- Virtual Art Show: This is the big one! We are organizing a virtual art show specifically for our Patreon collab challenges. This means we get to showcase incredible art from our community members all over the world. Global talent, zero travel lag.
The “Do Not Disturb” Sign
Now, before you think we’ve become full-time event planners, let’s be clear: The Studio is Sacred. Klee and I have officially designated several “Don’t Bother Us” days throughout most of the week. These are the days we lock the doors, ignore the emails, and just create. It’s non-negotiable. Connecting with humans is great, but connecting a brush to a canvas or hammering on metal is what keeps us sane enough to do all the other stuff! Honestly, without it, we wouldn’t have anything to share.
Check Out the New Features!
We’ve been tinkering under the hood of the website to make it easier for you to find new pieces, sign up for events, and see what we’re up to. Head over to the homepage to see the shiny new updates and the latest gallery additions.
2026 is about balance: Creating in private, celebrating in public, and making sure art stays at the center of it all. We can’t wait to see you at the market, at an exhibition, at an art syndicate meeting, at The Exchange, or on the livestream!
