Archives: Projects

Creative Entrepreneur Conference

There are moments in life that feel like more than just a date on the calendar. This past May, Klee and I traveled to Titusville for the Creative Entrepreneur Conference, and it was one of those milestones we won’t soon forget.

A Meaningful Milestone

While every speaking engagement is special, this one held a weight that’s hard to put into words. This was the first event Klee participated in since her hospitalization at the beginning of the year.

Seeing her back in her element—vibrant, insightful, and connecting with other creators—was incredibly emotional for both of us. It wasn’t just a conference; it was a celebration of resilience and the healing power of community.

A person with short hair and glasses gestures while speaking to an audience in a workshop setting, with attendees seated at tables in the background.

Tackling the 4 Common Challenges for Artists

We had the absolute blast sharing the stage to discuss a topic close to our hearts: The 4 Common Challenges for Artists. In a room full of such talented and passionate individuals, we dove deep into the hurdles that often keep us from reaching our full potential. We talked about:

Overcoming the Fear of Judgment: How to stop letting “what they think” dictate your brushstrokes.
The Myth of “The Starving Artist”: Shifting the mindset from scarcity to a sustainable creative business.
Consistency vs. Burnout: Finding that sweet spot where the work gets done without losing your soul.
Finding Your Authentic Voice: Why the world needs your unique perspective, not a copy of someone else’s.

The energy in Titusville was electric. There is something truly magical about being in a room where everyone “gets it”—the struggles, the triumphs, and the occasional madness of the creative life.

A speaker stands in front of an audience in a cozy venue, discussing topics related to creativity and overcoming challenges for artists, while a presentation is displayed on a screen behind.

Gratitude for the Titusville Community

To the awesome artists who came to hear us speak, thank you for your warmth, your questions, and your vulnerability. You reminded us why we do what we do.

We left Titusville with our hearts full and our spirits recharged. It feels good to be back on the road, sharing our journey and helping others navigate theirs.

Keep creating, keep pushing, and most importantly, keep being you.

Finding Our Rhythm Again at the Oil City Curb Market

There are times when life gets so hectic that the things we love most, like the simple joy of making music, somehow end up in the backseat. Between mural projects, speaking engagements, and navigating health challenges, our instruments had been gathering a little too much dust lately.

That changed recently when we were invited to play a concert at the Oil City Curb Market.

A woman singing into a microphone while seated, accompanied by a man playing a small instrument in the background. They are performing outdoors near a stone wall.

Rediscovering the Groove

I’ll be honest, when you’ve been away from the “stage” for a while, there’s always that tiny bit of hesitation. But the moment we started playing at the Central Avenue Plaza, all of that disappeared. We quickly rediscovered just how much we love creating music together. It wasn’t about being perfect; it was about the connection, the energy, and the pure fun of the performance.

A Vibrant Community Atmosphere

The Curb Market provided the perfect backdrop for our return to live music. There is something special about playing in a space that is so rooted in the community, surrounded by locally grown produce, artisan crafts, and friendly faces. We had an absolute blast sharing our sound with everyone who stopped by to listen, shop, and hang out in the heart of downtown.

A musician playing guitar on stage, a vocalist singing into a microphone, and a child dancing expressively in front of them, all set against a stone wall backdrop at an outdoor event.

Why Music Matters

Music has a way of recharging the creative batteries in a way that nothing else can. It’s a different kind of expression than painting a wall or giving a speech. It’s fluid, it’s immediate, and it reminded us that even when things are busy, we have to make room for the things that make our hearts sing.

Thank you to the Oil City Main Street Program for the invitation and to everyone who came out and shared the vibe with us. It felt incredible to be back in the groove!

Book Us To Play At Your Event

VISIT OUR MUSIC PAGE TO LISTEN TO OUR MUSIC

Bringing Color and Imagination to the Oil City Library

There is a unique kind of joy that comes with creating art for a space dedicated to learning and growth. I recently had the incredible opportunity to complete a mural at the Oil City Library, and seeing it finally finished is a milestone that fills my heart.

Designed for the Next Generation

This project was particularly special because it serves as the entrance to the children’s section of the library. Because of this, the mural was designed specifically with kids in mind, aiming to spark their curiosity and wonder the moment they walk through the door.

The goal was to capture the transformative power of reading. The mural features a large, open book with the inspiring message: “Today a Reader, Tomorrow a Leader”.

From the pages of the book, a vibrant rainbow of colors and flowing blue waves erupt, symbolizing the endless journey of imagination that begins with a single story. These waves spill across the wall and continue onto the library steps, populated by whimsical sea creatures and even a little frog enjoying a boat ride.

Mural at Oil City Library entrance featuring an open book with the quote 'Today a Reader, Tomorrow a Leader,' surrounded by colorful waves and silhouettes of children reading.

The Creative Process

Much like the mural at The Exchange, this project was a labor of love that required both creative focus and a bit of a physical workout.

Interactive Elements: By bringing the design onto the stairs, we turned a functional space into an immersive experience for every child (and adult!) walking into the library.
Positive Affirmations: Along the top ledge, we included powerful words like “Confident,” “Empowered,” “You is SMART,” and “You is KIND” to greet visitors as they enter.
Hand-Painted Details: Every fish, bubble, and wave was hand-painted to ensure the mural felt alive and welcoming.

Building Community Through Art

Art has a way of anchoring a community, and there is no better place for that than a public library. I am so grateful for the chance to contribute to Oil City’s story in such a literal way. Seeing the silhouettes of young readers painted next to the giant book serves as a reminder of why we invest in these spaces: to inspire the next generation of leaders.

A huge thank you to everyone at the Oil City Library for their support and for letting me turn their entryway into a world of color.

Artists painting a mural of an open book on the wall of the Oil City Library entrance, with children actively participating in the creative process.

Artists painting a mural at the entrance of a library, focusing on children's silhouettes and a large open book, capturing creativity and community engagement.

Go To Mural Commission Page

The Textured Artist-Enhanced Prints

You guys… this is big.

One of our biggest milestones in 2024—something that has been a dream, a goal, and frankly, a bit of a nerdy obsession—is finally a reality: We’ve officially locked in the design and production process for our textured artist-enhanced prints. And not just any prints… these beauties are designed, printed, cut, and hand-enhanced entirely in-house by me.

Let me say that again for the artsy people in the back: EVERY. SINGLE. STEP. IS. DONE. HERE. By yours truly.

She Dreamed Herself Back Together Artist Enhanced Print By Artist Rafi Perez

For the first time ever, we have everything we need under one roof:

A dedicated space to create.
A full woodworking room where I can cut the boards by hand (power tools are my jam).
A gorgeous large-format printer that lets us bring high-quality prints to life.
And most importantly, a special technique I’ve developed to make these prints long-lasting, durable, and beautifully unique.

This is a huge leap from where we were just a couple of years ago—juggling small spaces, outsourcing certain steps, and dreaming of the day we could offer something that felt truly personal, handcrafted, and accessible to all our awesome collectors.

These prints aren’t just reproductions. They’re crafted pieces of art—designed with texture, detail, and care—each one enhanced by hand with a little bit of rogue flair.

Honestly, the artsy nerd inside me is jumping up and down with joy. (Okay, maybe outwardly too.)

I Released the first batch of prints at Woods And River Coffee for their debut

I’ve wanted to create something that feels special and affordable—something that brings joy, beauty, and creativity into your space without breaking the bank. Now I finally have the means, the process, and the room to make that happen.

So here’s to this wild and wonderful milestone. Here’s to more space, more tools, more creativity… and to all of YOU who inspire this crazy artistic adventure every single day.

If you would like to see what prints I have listed Click here

Much love and high-fives,
– Rafi

Go To Our Shop

Creative Superpower at Cranberry School

There is a unique kind of energy that only a room full of kids can provide, and we recently had the honor of experiencing that firsthand. We were invited to Cranberry School in Cranberry, PA, to speak with students and, hopefully, spark a little bit of creative fire in their hearts.

The Creative Superpower

As creatives, we truly believe we have a superpower in this area. It isn’t just about the ability to paint or design; it’s about the ability to show the next generation that imagination is a tool for life.

When we stood in front of those students, our goal was to show them that being a “creative” isn’t a hobby—it’s a way of seeing the world. We wanted to inspire them to:

Trust their unique ideas, even when they feel “different.”
See challenges as opportunities for a new design or a better story.
Understand that their voices matter, whether they express them through art, writing, or problem-solving.

Connecting Through Art

It was incredible to see their faces light up as we discussed the life of an artist. We brought along some of our work to share, including jewelry and paintings, to show them the tangible results of following a creative path. There is something deeply rewarding about watching a child realize that the things they imagine in their heads can actually become real objects in the world.

Events like this are a vital part of our mission. While we love working on massive projects like the murals at The Exchange or the Oil City Library, there is no “canvas” more important than the minds of young people.

A Heartfelt Thank You

Thank you to the staff and students at Cranberry School for welcoming us so warmly. You reminded us that while we may be the ones with the “experience,” we can learn just as much from your curiosity and lack of limits.

Keep dreaming big, Cranberry! The world needs your superpowers.

Judging the FX Makeup Competition in Oil City

Every once in a while, life throws something your way that feels like it was written just for you. For us, that moment came when our friend Kaleb Lewis—a former contestant on the TV show Face Off—invited us to come out and judge a special effects makeup competition right here in Oil City.

If you know us, you know we LOVED Face Off. Week after week, we’d geek out over the insane artistry, the transformations, and the sheer creativity of the contestants. So to suddenly find ourselves on the other side of the table as judges for an FX competition? Let’s just say our excitement levels were off the charts.

Group of special effects makeup artists posing together in front of a wooden backdrop, showcasing their creative costumes inspired by sea creatures, forest guardians, and fantasy elements.

The Competition

Kaleb’s students were the ones bringing the magic to life, and WOW… they absolutely blew us away.

We saw:

Sea creatures come to life with shimmering scales and tridents.
Forest guardians crowned with antlers and flowers.
Creepy skeletal beings that looked like they’d walked straight out of a fantasy novel.
Octopus-inspired creations that made us want to double-check we weren’t standing near the ocean.

The amount of detail, skill, and imagination that went into these designs was next-level. Honestly, we had to keep reminding ourselves these were students—because the quality was professional-grade.

A performer dressed as a sea creature with scales and a trident stands on stage next to a woman in dark clothing, both engaged in a special effects makeup competition.

Two participants stand on stage during a special effects makeup competition. One is dressed in a black dress with lace sleeves, while the other is adorned in a fantasy costume with antlers and a floral crown, holding a walking stick and a basket.

A performance space showcasing a special effects makeup competition, featuring a speaker at a podium, a judge holding papers, and a contestant in a dramatic costume with skeletal elements.

A performer wearing an octopus-themed costume with an orange head and tentacles stands next to another person in a black dress, both on a stage in front of a window.

The Experience of Judging

Sitting in those seats, watching the transformations, and then getting to talk with the artists about their process was such an honor. We weren’t just there to pick winners—we were there to celebrate creativity, courage, and craft.

And let’s be real—it wasn’t easy. Every single student brought something unique and powerful to the stage. Picking favorites felt almost impossible, but in the end, it was all about recognizing the passion and hard work that went into every creation.

Why It Mattered to Us

Being invited to judge this competition was more than just a fun evening (though it was definitely that!). It was a reminder of why community matters so much.

Creative humans inspiring each other. Students pushing themselves. Teachers like Kaleb who are passing on knowledge and sparking new imaginations.

And us? We got to be witnesses—and cheerleaders—for the magic of it all.

Final Thoughts

We left the event buzzing with inspiration (and maybe a little glitter still stuck to us).

A huge shoutout to Kaleb for inviting us and to his students for sharing their phenomenal work. If this is the future of special effects makeup, the industry is in very good hands.

It was an absolute honor to be part of it—and you better believe, if we’re ever asked to judge again, we’ll say yes in a heartbeat.

✨ Takeaway for fellow creatives: Never underestimate the power of sharing your creativity, no matter what stage you’re at. You never know who you’ll inspire—or who’ll be inspired by you.

ALL WE ARE – Our New Song & Music Video

We are so excited to share something new with you—our latest song release, ALL WE ARE. This is only our second music release since moving to Oil City, and it feels like a milestone in so many ways.

Why This Song Matters

ALL WE ARE is more than just a song—it’s a reminder. A reminder that at the core of everything—art, music, community, and love—is simply being who we are. No pretending, no fitting into someone else’s mold, just the truth of what it means to show up as yourself.

When we wrote it, we wanted it to be raw and honest. It’s got that mix of vulnerability and strength that comes from living through the ups, downs, and in-betweens.

A person walking with photographs in hand, one of which prominently displays the word 'DREAMS', in an urban setting with brick pavement and a dumpster nearby.

Capturing Oil City

For the music video, we decided to make Oil City part of the story. This place has been such a huge part of our creative rebirth, and it just felt right to let it shine.

We filmed scenes by the river, against old brick walls, in hidden gardens, and in the middle of the town that welcomed us when we needed a home. Oil City is in every frame—it’s not just the backdrop, it’s part of the heartbeat of this song.

Behind the Camera

Shooting this video was an adventure in itself. Balancing cameras on sidewalks, sneaking in shots between raindrops, and laughing our way through awkward outtakes—it was all part of the process.

But in the end, what we captured was real. The town, the music, and us—imperfect, human, and proud to share it with you.

Two musicians standing by a river in Oil City, one wearing a black jacket and a bandana with a guitar, while the other is in a light-colored outfit, both engaged in conversation.

Why This Release Feels Special

After years of pouring ourselves into art, books, and projects, coming back to music feels like reclaiming a piece of ourselves. ALL WE ARE isn’t just a song release—it’s a step forward in embracing everything we create, without boxing ourselves into just one lane.

Watch & Listen

The song is now out for public distribution, and you can check out the video to see Oil City through our eyes.

This release is a love letter—to authenticity, to creativity, and to the town that helped us remember who we are.

✨ Takeaway for fellow creatives: Don’t wait for the “perfect” conditions to share your work. Share it as you are, where you are. Because sometimes, that’s the most powerful art of all.

Book Us To Play At Your Event

VISIT OUR MUSIC PAGE TO LISTEN TO OUR MUSIC

FREE ARTIST MASTERCLASS WORKSHOP NORTHWEST PA

JOIN US FOR A FUN-FILLED DAY OF CREATIVE EXCELLENCE! An Opportunity for All Creatives – Artists, Performers, Writers, Musicians, Artisans, and hobbyists – to Learn How to be a badass in your creative business.

Are you an aspiring or seasoned artist or creative in Northwestern PA with dreams of running a successful creative business? Do you want to demystify the complex world of art marketing, art sales, pricing, and more? Look no further! We’re thrilled to announce our upcoming full-day workshop that will provide you with the essential knowledge and tools to take your artistic journey to the next level.

This FREE (Supported by a grant from Erie Arts & Culture, with funds from the National Endowment for the Arts) workshop is designed to help creatives master the business of being full-time creatives.

DOWNLOAD MASTERCLASS BULLET POINTS:

Rafi-And-Klee-Artist-Masterclass Download

TAKE MASTERCLASS BELOW

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PRESENTERS:

Rafi Perez

Rafi Perez is a seasoned artist and author who has successfully navigated the world of creative entrepreneurship. With years of experience in the art industry, Rafi has honed his skills and developed a deep understanding of what it takes to run a thriving creative business. He is the author of “The Rogue Artist’s Survival Guide Series,” a comprehensive resource that shares invaluable insights and strategies for artists looking to succeed in the art world.

Klee Angelie

Klee Angelie is a multi-talented artist known for her work in jewelry, music, and sculpture. Her diverse creative background brings a unique perspective to the workshop, offering attendees insights into different facets of the art world. As a co-presenter, Klee will share her experiences and expertise in various creative endeavors. Her insights into pricing, showcasing, and marketing art, both online and offline, will provide attendees with valuable strategies to enhance their creative businesses.

PARTNERS AND SPONSORS:

Special thanks to The Oil City Library, Core Goods, Woods and River Coffee, And of course, a big thank you to the sponsors of this event: Supported by a grant from Erie Arts & Culture, with funds from the National Endowment for the Arts.

Our First Creative Entrepreneur Conference

This year we had the incredible honor of being invited to speak at the Creative Entrepreneur Conference—our very first time as presenters at this event. Honestly, when the invitation came, we both had that moment of: Wait, us? Really?

But yes—really. And not only were we asked to show up, we were asked to teach four full workshops for artists.

Nervous? Oh Yeah.

We’ll be real: stepping into a conference room filled with creative humans eager to learn is a whole different kind of stage. Nerves? Definitely. That little voice in the back of the head? Yup, it was chattering away.

But as soon as we got started, the jitters faded into excitement. We realized we weren’t there to “lecture.” We were there to share stories, swap insights, and connect with other artists walking the same road we’ve been on.

What We Taught

We covered four workshops designed to give artists practical tools and a good dose of encouragement:

Pricing Art – breaking down the numbers without killing the magic.
Marketing, Social Media, Branding & Logos – aka how to show up without selling your soul.
Mindset & Motivation – keeping your creativity alive through the ups and downs.
Practical Tools for Artists – everything from organization to weather-proofing your outdoor shows (yes, we went there 🌬️🌧️).

Each session had laughs, lightbulb moments, and a whole lot of conversation.

The Experience

What we loved most was the energy in the room. Artists sharing their struggles, asking bold questions, and reminding us that we’re all in this together. Teaching turned into conversations, and those conversations reminded us why we love doing what we do.

By the time we wrapped our final workshop, we weren’t just relieved—we were inspired.

Why This Matters

For us, this milestone wasn’t just about speaking at a conference. It was about showing up in a new way, stepping into the role of teachers, and proving to ourselves that we could do it.

It was also about giving back. We’ve been through the grind, the doubts, the failures, and the triumphs. Being able to share what we’ve learned—and see it land with other creatives—was nothing short of amazing.

Final Thoughts

We walked into the Creative Entrepreneur Conference nervous, but we walked out with huge smiles, new connections, and a heart full of gratitude.

It was fun. It was scary. It was fulfilling.
And it was just the beginning.

✨ Takeaway for fellow creatives: If you ever get the chance to share your journey—take it. Even if you’re nervous. Especially if you’re nervous. You never know how much your story might help someone else keep going.