People often ask me, “What inspires you and your art?” It’s a question that requires a deeper understanding of the creative process. While renowned artists like Picasso, Warhol, or Dali may appear to be obvious sources of inspiration, the truth is that their art, in itself, doesn’t inspire me. Rather, it is life and the experiences it offers that fuel my creativity. On this dreary day, I want to share some rambles on inspiration and how the stuff of life shapes our artistic endeavors.
Creative Inspiration Is An Interesting Beast
When we create, it comes from within us, where we observe, absorb, and reflect on our emotions and reactions to the world around us. It’s the essence of life itself. While I may draw inspiration from various sources, the tapestry of existence truly moves me. Allow me to elaborate.
Last year, I embarked on a road trip to attend my daughter’s wedding in Illinois. Due to the pandemic, it had been years since we had seen our family, making this journey even more special. As we traveled, those moments in the car allowed me to decompress and fully embrace the anticipation of reconnecting with loved ones. It was a mix of excitement, mental preparation, and the knowledge that we would experience something truly significant.
Connected To The Universe By Rafi Perez
Arriving at our destination, we were greeted with conversations, smiles, and all the interactions that make up our lives. These moments, whether joyful, heated, or melancholic, are the stuff of life. They inspire us, shape us, and teach us valuable lessons about ourselves and what we aspire to become. The art we create becomes an expression of our unique perspectives on the world and the things we often take for granted.
In a fast-paced, busy world, it’s easy to let life pass us by. We become focused on destinations and overlook the beauty of the journey itself. However, it is precisely in those small moments, the instances of triumph and joy, and even the heartaches, that we find inspiration. These experiences enable us to overcome obstacles and grow as individuals. Feeling our way through the world is the key to unlocking innovation and creativity.
I’m Born With It By Artist Rafi Perez
The Power of Authenticity & Perspective
In a society that often encourages us to suppress or hide our feelings, we must realize that our emotions are a powerful expression of our authentic selves. By embracing our feelings, we allow ourselves to be fully present and in tune with the world. It’s essential to understand that hiding our emotions equates to hiding who we are and how we perceive the world.
Perspective shapes our experiences and influences how we perceive the world. I refuse to let external conditions dictate my ideas of what it means to be successful. Instead, I immerse myself in the process of creation, cherishing the moments spent creating. It’s a reminder that our focus should be on the things that bring us happiness and fulfillment, rather than dwelling on what we lack or wishing for something better.
Becoming Tree Of Life Necklace Ocean Jasper 14k Gold Filled Klee Angelie Jewelry
From Struggle to Empowerment
In my own journey, there was a time when I wished for a better life, feeling trapped by circumstances that seemed less than ideal. But at some point, I realized that if I wanted change, I needed to take control and create the life I desired. Through risk-taking and embracing vulnerability, I started to build something amazing. And the message I want to share is that if I can do it, anyone can. We can all live a creative life, find happiness, and continue moving forward, even in the face of challenges. In your vulnerability, you will find authenticity.
Living authentically means embracing who we are and being present in every moment. It means recognizing that our thoughts, ideas, and emotions matter. When we express ourselves genuinely, whether through art, music, or other creative outlets, we invite others to connect with our unique perspective. It’s a powerful way to inspire and resonate with those who encounter our work.
Aquamarine Drop Necklace Sterling Fine Silver 18k Gold by Klee Angelie Jewelry
In a world that often pushes us to be constantly striving for more and overlooking the “now”, it’s crucial to remember that inspiration lies in the moments we experience and the emotions we feel. Life itself is the greatest source of inspiration for artists. By embracing the journey, feeling our way through the world, and living authentically, we unlock our creative potential and find fulfillment in the beauty that surrounds us.
So, the next time you find yourself caught up in the busyness of life, take a moment to pause, look around, and appreciate the simple joys. Embrace the moments, both big and small, and let them fuel your creative spirit. Remember, you have the power to shape your own perspective and create a life filled with beauty, purpose, and inspiration.
The Holiday season has come and gone. As Klee and I prepared for our long winter nap and reflection, I was struck by an important question. Who are you today? I mean, I know who I am, right? Surprisingly, the answer is no. The fact is that we change and evolve with every experience we have.
Listening to the gusts of wind and snow pummel my house, I was taken back to my childhood and some experiences and people that helped make me who I am today. These moments, conversations, struggles, and highlights taught me valuable lessons. However, if I am candid with myself, it is just a narrative I have repeated so much that it has become a reality. Everything I remember from my past is a construct of my design. I watched much TV as a kid and absorbed characters like Mr. Rogers and Bob Ross. They impacted me by introducing me to something I wasn’t surrounded by. Hope. But was it real?
Maybe it was the holidays or that Klee and I decided to take some time off from all the craziness and reset, but I can’t help wondering why I do what I do.
Anyone following our journey knows the last few years have been full of adventurous tales.
Rafi and Klee are waiting for a call from realtor
Some of you know that we moved last year, and to say it has been a crazy rollercoaster ride is an understatement. Let’s be honest, the last few years have been a bit of an insane ride, and I finally feel like we are getting to some semblance of normal. Well, normal for us. As I reflect, I think about how our lives changed dramatically and the toll it took on us.
The true craziness started in 2020 when the world shut down, and everyone fought amidst a pandemic. Klee and I spent a lot of time navigating the changes that would have to come with our art business. No longer able to do local shows for income, we needed to adapt and change our strategy. As we watched our bank account dwindle, we struggled to find footing. The truth is, spending a lot of time indoors and away from others wasn’t bothering us at all. Klee and I are artists. That’s normal for us. We spend a lot of time in our studio. We also really like each other, so nothing much had changed. It felt like the world around us was changing, or maybe we were paying closer attention since we weren’t distracted by markets and shows. Things sometimes felt a bit dark, but we kept our spirits up.
Because we needed to take a new direction, we focused a little more on connecting with artists online. We started a community of Rogue artists from all over the world. We wanted to create a safe place for creatives to interact and share ideas. We began to invest more time in our online efforts. We built a community, started a podcast, and uploaded more videos. We also supported the artists in our local area whenever we could. Then hurricane Sally hit our area, and everything shut down twice over. To say that 2020 was challenging doesn’t quite sum up the year. Let’s say the term dumpster fire is a better description.
Rafi And Klee Zoom Meetings During 2020
Enter 2021, and things are slowly coming out of the worst of the pandemic, but there are still a lot of heightened emotions and arguments in the world. As much as people wanted to talk and argue politics, I wanted nothing to do with that conversation. At this point, we had our eyes set on moving, but we were still trying to navigate the financial effects of 2020. I was writing my second and third books, organizing the art for a large exhibition, planning an adventure to the north, and figuring out how to afford to purchase a new home.
We had wanted to move from the apartment we had been living in for a while. The truth is we had outgrown it years earlier, and other factors involved made it a somewhat challenging environment for what we do. With every year that passed, the challenges became more prominent. Every year, however, we would put it off until the following year. This was most likely due to fear. As much as we wanted to move, we knew how to navigate our environment, which was comfortable (as in our comfort zone, which has nothing to do with real comfort). We finally reached a point where we had no other option but to move on and leave the apartment behind. Things had gotten beyond challenging, and we were determined to escape the situation we had put ourselves in by living in the apartment. We decided that even if we had to live in our car, get rid of everything, and start over again, we were willing to do that. It was time for a change.
Of course, the odds were stacked against us. Self-employed artists are at the lowest rung of banking loan opportunities, but we didn’t care this time. We were going to make it happen. Towards the end of the year, we gathered what we had saved from successful art shows and proceeded to travel the country and look for a new home. We eventually landed in Oil City, which had an artist’s relocation program to revitalize this once-boom town. The city is beautiful, and we found a house that we immediately fell in love with. It was our dream home. Our offer was accepted, and it was time to return, pick up our belongings, and start our new life.
Upon arriving at the apartment, we found that a leak from an air-conditioner had devastated Klee’s jewelry bench and tools. The water had also gotten underneath the protective tarp surrounding the studio. This meant that we would have to tear things down at a hurried pace. Exhausted from our travels, we jumped into taking the studio apart, buying a house long distance, organizing another art show, collecting art from around town, and getting ready to move our lives across the country.
Klee trying to recover her damaged jewelry bench and tools
The studio was shut down during all this, and we could not take any orders. This meant we were not making any money.
It was a month of constant exhaustion and heavy lifting that ended with us throwing everything into a 26-foot U-Haul before our landlords showed up with their own Uhaul (who needed us to move ours out of the way, but that’s a whole other story). We put our jeep on the tow dolly and navigated our way to our new town, stopping to nap at a Truckstop and racing against time to make it to our new home for the closing.
Once we were at the house, the challenges continued. We knew that buying an older home would require updates and repairs. However, we did not expect no-shows, delays, and a lack of good contractors. The house needed new electrical, plumbing, and other repairs before we could open our studio. At this point, the studio had been shut down for months.
Finally, eight months into 2021, we opened the art studio and jumped right into taking commissions and opening up our online store. We were in our dream home, and life was good. However, it was nonstop, and my body couldn’t take it anymore. The move and pushing my body too far caused debilitating pain. I pushed on anyhow.
We organized a two-month gallery show, released two books, music, volunteered, and worked on commissions all while we did repairs for our new home and built our lives back up. All the while feeling like we would never catch up and get back on track. We pushed through the holiday orders and finally got to a place where we could catch our breath.
Honestly, all of this would have been fine, it is just the luck of being busy as an artist who just moved to a new town. However, on the back end, everything we had in place to run our art business was old and outdated. Systems needed an overhaul, and everything was more complicated than it needed to be.
Enter the break.
Towards the end of 2022, we decided to take a few months off to get ourselves organized and restructured. During that time, we released the last audiobook, built a Rogue Artist Community site, created systems for our business (giving us more time for creativity), finished building our art studio, and updated our website and webstore.
Another artist I know said, “I’m jealous. I wish we could take a few months off and relax.”
Relaxing is next on our list lol.
My reflection on these last few years has taught me that no matter what is thrown at you, nothing can stand in your way as long as you are determined to keep going. However, making time for self-care and relaxation is paramount. We may be able to climb mountains, but you have to stop and rest along the way.
I can sit here and bitch about all the struggles we have had, but honestly, that’s just life. How we handle them and reflect is really what matters. We may still be recovering physically and financially, but what drives me forward is the same thing I was introduced to as a child. Hope. The difference is I surround myself with it now.
Last week was something of a blur. With everything going on lately, I frequently walk into rooms and forget where I am. I’m also guessing at what day of the week it is because I honestly don’t know. Our exhibition has been extended. We are working on commissions, trying to remodel the third floor (our bedroom), hosting guests, recording an audiobook, practicing for a concert, and figuring out how to create clones of ourselves.
Have you ever had one of those days that felt like you were moving at the speed of light? This week (or month, I have no sense of time) has felt like that.
However, some moments stand out—moments of connection where time slows down. As two “Artroverts,” Klee and I spend a lot of time hidden away in our studio, where we express ourselves through our creations. These creations will connect us with humans when we put them out there. Some may glance, listen, or read it and scoff. Some may ignore it, but some will connect. Some will even feel inspired to reach out to us; thus, the connection comes full circle.
Robin came all the way from Kansas and hung out with us at the gallery. This was our first time meeting him in person. He is an amazing human and we were so happy for this opportunity!
Because we are very public on the internet, we get to connect with people from all over the world. This is something that still surprises me. I tend to forget that Klee and I are public personalities. This is because the reality is that we are total nerds. We are both socially awkward and weird. Yet, people from around the world have connected with who we are even though we may have never met in person. I think this is a beautiful thing.
Putting yourself out there and making human connections will always require being brave and taking chances. Engaging in conversation with someone new can be intimidating. Many creative folks are shy and would tweeze their nose hair out rather than start a conversation with a stranger. However, if you put yourself out there, you will have to step out of your comfort zone despite the nerves.
Something magical happens when you connect with someone in a conversation many miss because they are too scared to go for it.
Darren drove in from Ohio and spent some time with us at the gallery and we had some really awesome conversation.
Listen, Klee, and I know what it feels like to be so painfully shy. Every time we put ourselves out there, we are pushing through a comfort zone. It’s gotten a little easier over the years, but the fear never really goes away. That being said, we keep certain things in mind when choosing to go public with our awkwardness.
Choose the things you like. It is easier to engage in a conversation when surrounded by people with similar interests. If you love reading, join a book club. If you create art, volunteer to teach an art class. Put yourself in an environment where YOU are comfortable. Talk about what you enjoy. Don’t jump on subjects because they are common or popular unless you are genuinely interested in them.
Embrace rejection for what it is. Everyone is not for everyone. You may click with some and not so much with others. Introverts tend to feel like they are on trial. You are not. You don’t need to gather friends, just people you connect with. If a conversation doesn’t jive, don’t blame yourself. It just means there was no connection. If someone rejects you, then it means they have no business being in your life anyhow.
Heather and Steve visited Oil City During their cross country trip and we spent a great time together. This was our first time meeting in person and it was awesome!
Be yourself. It is exhausting to try and be anything other than yourself. You don’t have to be anyone else to make a connection. Just be yourself and connect with your people.
Have fun. I think we can quickly turn meeting people into a serious act for many of us. The truth is, if you make it no fun and are not having fun, then why do it?
Be vulnerable. Don’t put up an act. Allow yourself to be more vulnerable. Don’t drop filters or boundaries, but don’t curate a version of yourself that is not you.
The Kirkman’s came in from Cayman Islands and spend a few days with us. This was our first time meeting and it was like hanging out with old friends.
These moments are magical. These moments only happen if you allow yourself to be who YOU are. Last week, we connected with some unique humans. Some traveled quite a distance to meet us. This is bravery, and we are so happy to have had the opportunity to share that time with them. This is what it is all about. This is the stuff of life.
Over the years, we have extended our Rogue family of creative humans across the globe only because we treasure our connection to them. In a world where everyone is chasing fame, likes, an algorithm, or money, I think it is important to remember that we are all human. We are all connected. We all cry, laugh, get stressed, jump for joy, and do our best in life. Our humanness and humanity are what can bring us together. It is also what has the most value.
Artists will contact us every once in a while telling us they have no time to create art. Between house chores, work, and taking care of someone else’s needs, they find themselves at odds with what they want. They explain how they feel guilty even thinking about taking creative time. That guilt is compounded when the people around them think that creating art doesn’t matter. This guilt and perception can add a lot of undue stress which will lead to less creating.
It’s funny to me that the perception exists in the world that says that artists don’t do anything important. Some people believe that our lives are stuffed with unicorn farts and rainbow ice cream. It’s been an insane couple of years for us. We’ve had a few large art exhibitions, commissions, power outages, bad weather, art studio closures, moving across the country, and don’t even get me started on water leaks or plumbing. We’ve also dealt with butt hurt friends, rejection, financial struggles, and all other manner of emotionally draining events. Things always felt worse when I didn’t give myself the space to create.
I’ll be honest, as much as I hate to admit it, some of it has been stressful. Not because things go wrong. That’s just life. We all know that the shit will hit the fan at some point just to keep us on our toes.
No, it’s not the events or circumstances that happen in life that bring me stress. In actuality, it is the crap that goes on in my brain that stresses me out. It’s the excuses I use to not create or do what I want. Klee and I do a lot of stuff that we consider fun. We make art, jewelry, film videos, play music, design t-shirts, manage an online community of awesome rogue artists, write books, and record podcasts. We do whatever we think will be fun. We also do all the things that people consider not as much fun. Things like managing our business, yard work, house repairs, and other domestic arts (as one of the Rogues called it). Add to that all the different components that come with life, relationship, home, and work, and it can all feel overwhelming.
However, it’s just life. It’s every moment. And moments are precious. But, art is what allows me to process it all.
One thing I like to remind myself of is that overwhelm is not what is going on around you, but what you think your role is in what is happening. Honestly, it is reminding yourself that you can just walk away or say no. It’s easy to feel like things would fall apart without you, but trust me, things probably feel like they’re falling apart anyhow.
On the flipside, it is also ok to say yes. It’s also ok to say you don’t want to do something any more… I mean, it’s your life, you get to choose how you want to live it.
Now, if you do happen to do a million things, and can’t find time for what you want, here are some best practices for you that I have learned the hard way.
STAY POSITIVE AND CREATE
Don’t get wrapped up in the humble brag that you are the busiest person in the world. It is easy to exclaim to the world that you are the busiest human on the planet. I’m not saying you are not, but constantly repeating that mantra for yourself can have some bad results. Tell yourself that you have a choice on how you decide to spend your time. You may make a lot of excuses on why you can’t find time to create when you are wrapped up in your drama, but there is always time if you decide there is. Even 30 minutes of creating is better than no minutes.
HAVE SOME KIND OF PLAN
I hate planning things. I hate schedules. I hate when a past version of me writes something down telling me I need to do something. Why didn’t he do it? That being said, when you are juggling a lot, it is important to make a plan and space it out. Honestly, each day should have no more than four large tasks. If you have more than that, you will run yourself into the ground. However, plan the things you want to do and make it sacred. That means that NO ONE has the right to guilt you out of your plans. It is not selfish for you to want to create, it is selfish of others to monopolize your time and keep you from doing what you want in life.
DON’T JUST SAY YES
It’s ok to say no. You gotta take care of yourself. Also, if you can’t finish something in time, just get it done when you can. Don’t kill yourself to finish it. People might expect things and it might be time to introduce them to a word that they may have not heard from you yet.
THE DISHES CAN WAIT
Honestly, when it comes to doing dishes or creating art, art will win every time. Also, if there are more than one of you in your household, it might be time for other people to pitch in and ease up time for you.
COMPLETE AT LEAST 1 THING A DAY
You can be busy all day, from phone calls to finalizing a large project. However, forming the habit of working on art every day is important. Try to complete something, It doesn’t matter what it is, it can be a quick sketch, just give yourself a sense of completion.
FOCUS ON ONE THING AT A TIME
People out there love to say that they are great at multitasking. They are full of it. The brain isn’t designed for that. You can jump between projects when you are at a standstill, but even then, shift your thinking and focus on what is in front of you. This is why meditation is important, because it helps you build that focusing muscle. Also, have a space that will not be interrupted with other things.
MAKE IT ALL FUN
Bring your creativity back. At the end of the day, It should all be fun. Why not? Sometimes, you won’t be able to work on art, and that is ok if you are used to giving yourself that creative time. This weekend we have a lot on our plate. I will be doing my first book fair at the Oil City Library from 10-2PM, then heading to Graffiti Gallery and sitting our show from 2-6PM. This is followed by a friend’s birthday party. Meanwhile, we have a million things that we are juggling at home. It is easy to forget that it is all delicious if you feel like a martyr. When you take control and give yourself time for what you want, you remember that you have a choice. It’s easy to use excuses for why you “HAVE” to do something, but at the end of the day, it is our choice. You will feel better making time for other people and stuff if you make time for yourself when you want it.
TELL SOME PEOPLE TO BACK OFF
People can get really used to you being the one who takes care of everything. Humans are habitual creatures and whenever something happens often, it is easy for it to become the norm. I’ve even experienced people feeling entitled and getting mad at me because I didn’t want to hang out due to my art. Either put people like that in their place or get rid of them.
I’m going to say something very grim sounding but it was important for me to hear when I was killing myself with overwhelm.
“The world will keep going if YOU are not around cleaning up messes and juggling a million things. The people who rely on you would figure it out one way or another.”
If you are stretching yourself too thin, it might be time to reevaluate. This might require you to tell someone you are no longer going to do something for them. It’s hard, but you have to take care of you before you take care of someone else’s needs, or else you are useless to them and yourself.
This weekend was our first significant art exhibition and reception in our new town in Oil City, Pennsylvania. The reception was a blast. We had so many people come out and support us that it almost made me want to break down into a pile of tears of appreciation. That being said, everything wasn’t bursts of sunshine and unicorn farts.
Picture Taken By The Raw Image
Any artist you speak to will tell you that putting together a show is both a logistical and emotional challenge. Add in the efforts to promote and prep for a show, and it can feel like a nightmare. Now, to be clear, our show was a wonderful experience, but I would be lying if I said that everything went according to plan. If you are doing ANYTHING like this, there is one guarantee… No matter what you do, it is inevitable that some things will not work out the way you wish.
So what went wrong?
As incredible as we were received at the reception, the weather was hot outside, and that trickled into our very full gallery. This meant that it was hot in the gallery to the point that it was unbearable.
People were there to meet us and check out the art. Ideally, at an art show, you have tags by your art describing the work and price. I left a stack of 30 tags on a table instead of on the wall. It was so hot that the 80 tags I did manage to put on the wall were curling and falling off.
At an exhibition, you also want to put out a guest book to keep a record of the show. Ours was sitting at home and not being written in at all.
Finally, I didn’t take any pictures at our reception, nor did I film much, so I didn’t document the incredible turnout. To add to the issues, we were missing a part needed for our cell booster and could not live stream the event as we promised.
So what do you do in those situations that don’t go quite the way you wanted them to?
You roll with the punches.
Klee and I have done over 600 shows in our decade-long career as artists, and the one thing that will always happen is something will go wrong. Conditions change in the blink of an eye, or you forget something. The key is not getting stuck there and changing your course of action quickly. Here’s what we keep in mind when things go wrong.
1. Focus on what you can control.
We couldn’t control the weather, but we could make the most of it. Yes, it was hot, but a cold drink and good conversation will always make it a little more interesting. There was no point in stressing about the heat or lack of internet. We were in the show. Our focus was to mingle and have a good time with the people who supported us. We set up fans as best we could and decided to cancel the live stream and fix the issue once we were done with reception weekend. It isn’t great, but you must carry on and make the most of it.
2. Don’t get stuck in what is going wrong.
Listen, things will go wrong. It’s just the nature of things, but that is ok. Things going wrong don’t define who you are, but how you deal with it does. You get to choose who you want to be in those challenging moments and that is what ultimately matters.
3. Make decisions and follow through.
In situations like these, time isn’t going to stop and allow you to figure it out. Could you make a choice and go with it? Whether it is right or wrong is a moot point. At the moment, all you can do is make a choice, and hemming and hawing will not get you closer to a good decision when it feels like things are falling apart. Consult someone you trust if you are stuck, but don’t blame them when it goes wrong because ultimately, it was your choice and the best choice at the time.
4. If something is complicated or overwhelming, admit it.
Sometimes, the only way to move forward is to admit defeat. If it is too much, instead of blowing up or falling apart, just admit it. Open your mouth and say, “I’m getting overwhelmed? What can I do to make this simple?” and go from there. What matters most in this situation is that you are not a ball of stress. Also, let people help if they ask. Our friend Jim and his mom made finger foods for us, which were wonderful. It was also very much needed since Klee, and I just didn’t have enough time to focus on food.
5. Trust your gut and don’t overthink it.
Pay attention to that feeling you get in your gut. We have it for a reason. When facing a challenge and you have a choice to make, evaluate how you feel about the situation. Is it a good feeling? Are you feeling wary? Don’t ignore how you feel.
6. When it all goes to crap, don’t shut down.
Don’t give up. Just keep going. Pivot, change directions, simplify, or salvage, but don’t stop moving.
Picture Taken By The Raw Image
7. Learn in hindsight.
Later on, when you are thinking about it, ask yourself, “how could I have done that better?” then make a plan for the future. The first event that Klee and I put together was trash compared to what it is now. Honestly, everything builds on prior experience, and we will never get it entirely right. That is ok. That is life. It is a waste of time feeling like you failed because it didn’t work out perfectly. Use your time and energy learning from experience and not berating yourself.
8. Stay positive.
It’s easy to get pessimistic when it is all falling apart. Every opportunity is a chance to prove to yourself (not others) how much of a badass you are. This is especially true when things go wrong. So, when it goes to crap, remember, “well, this will be a learning experience,” and then give yourself a good laugh and allow yourself to get out of your head and have fun.
Next time I’ll have some things on my list I may have overlooked, but this is the stuff of life, and I love it. Thank you so much to everyone that came out for the reception. The exhibition will run for the month of August and we have many things planned.
I may not have filmed much, but our friend over at The Raw Image did. Check out this awesomeness!
As the warm weather approaches and I look out at the beautiful new views that surround me, I am excited for the warm weather and all the fun that is to be had this year. Sure, as artists, we can go weeks locked up in our art studio creating and only emerge when the pantry is down to one can of random beans. However, there really is nothing like creating out in the sunshine and surrounded by amazing folks.
I am proud to announce that Klee and I will be two of the amazing artists that will be creating awesomeness at FAM JAM. You may be wondering, “What the heck is FAM JAM Rafi?”
Well, let me enlighten you to the awesomeness that is about to hit the scene in Oil City.
FAM JAM is an epic extravaganza of creativity, bringing you something unique and fun to kick off the warm weather that is about to grace us all. Enjoy the waterside views, the delectable food, the rare sight of live artists in the midst of creating, and live music artists bringing immense joy to your eardrums.
Come and be part of the first event of its kind in the area, and don’t miss the awesomeness. You will get to see Klee and I awkwardly trying to get back into our creative groove and other fantastic artists creating things that will make you gasp in astonishment. To say that we are excited is an understatement.
Glow In The Dark Live Painting At Vinyl 2016
Oh wait, there is more.
So, not only will your eardrums and eyeballs be tickled with phenomenal joy, but your tastebuds will explode with pleasure. Oh yes my friends, there will be food trucks.
Beautiful views, amazing art, wonderful music, great food, and magical people… what a superb way to bring in the warmth!
WHAT: FAM JAM
WHEN: May 14th, 2022 2PM – 8PM (We will be there between 2-5ish)
WHERE: Justus Park, 1 Seneca Street, Oil City, PA 16301
WHY: Because it is going to be AMAZING!
Check out the event poster below for more information:
View the amazing artwork of the Rogue Artists in this amazing show. Collab lab is an art show where amazing creative rogues take on the challenge of creating cohesive beautiful art following three parameters. The Parameters are different for every show and designed to challenge. Watch the video below to visit the gallery and do a virtual walk-through with Klee and me. Scroll to the bottom of this page to download a PDF of this show.
Parameter 1 – The subject matter, style, and medium can be anything you choose to depict the theme.
Parameter 2 – Represent the duality of the Stickman (negative internal voice) and the Champion (positive internal voice) in your mind.
Parameter 3 – Keep the observer in mind {Either by “zooming the lens out” and representing yourself as the observer or by creating a composition that pulls an observer in}.
I am excited to share these with you because they really push some boundaries. If you are interested in any of the pieces below that are for sale, please contact the artist. Enjoy this awesome show.
Christopher J. Rhoads
Artist Name: Christopher J. Rhoads Best Way To Contact Artist: https://www.instagram.com/rhoads.j.christopher/ Is It For Sale: No Name Of Piece: Within the Fields of My Mind Artist Statement: Within the fields of my mind stands a tree A lone tree grown deep in what has been And grown tall in what will be. It is a young tree. It is an old tree. It holds me as a mother holds a child And it holds me as a father scolds a son. Upon it’s branches sits two owls that are not owls. Two forms without form. Two thoughts within my thoughts. Together I am praised. Together I am judged. Together I am whole Within the fields of my mind…
Ellen von Reiser
Artist Name: Ellen von Reiser Best Way To Contact Artist: Commissions@starrynightdiner.com Is It For Sale: Yes Price: $150 Name Of Piece: Conflicted Artist Statement: Good and evil are not so different. There is only a small gap. We live in that gap. We must see them both in order to make the choice. Being good is not about only being good. It is about seeing good and evil and making a choice. People are not good. People choose to be good.
Heather Sabian
Artist Name: Heather Sabian Best Way To Contact Artist: Heathersabian43@gmail.com Is It For Sale: No Name Of Piece: One Of Three Artist Statement: Although we as humans have many complex emotions they can all be boiled down to three and all others branch off from these. Fear, anger, and happiness. Which one is whispering inside your head the most? Which one do you choose to listen to most?
Artist Name: Jennifer Lynn Gorman Best Way To Contact Artist: cannonfodderg@gmail.com Is It For Sale: No Name Of Piece: The Conflict In Creation Artist Statement: A violent vision of the creative process. An example of how the conflict between inspiration and doubt can inspire the threads through which art can be woven.
Jason Boushard
Artist Name: Jason Boushard Best Way To Contact Artist: anartjourneyinfo@gmail.com Is It For Sale: Yes Price: $250 Name Of Piece: JUST GO!!! Artist Statement: This represents the inner turmoil before any big event. With a focus on what bike touring travelers go through.
Cindy Diel
Artist Name: Cindy Diel Best Way To Contact Artist: https://www.instagram.com/dielartful/ Is It For Sale: No Name Of Piece: The Choice Artist Statement: Being an artist isn’t always about technical skills. Sometimes the hardest part is overcoming my own doubt and fear. The voice in my head that tells me I am not good enough, to quit. But if I create and step beyond the fear…the possibilities are beautiful and unlimited.
Acrylic painting done on 16×20 canvas.
You can see more of my work on Instagram; dielartful. I also have a store on RedBubble; Cindy Diel.
Kelly Sterr
Artist Name: Kelly Sterr Best Way To Contact Artist: Kellysterr@kellysterrgallery.com Is It For Sale: No Name Of Piece: Don’t Let the Stickman Win Artist Statement: As soon as the parameter were given, a doodle on an envelope was created. Because of the struggle to get my art career going, I am in constant battle with the stickman telling me I suck and that people only tell me they like my art because they don’t want to hurt my feelings. This is a reminder to let my inner cheerleader be a dominant force. This is an acrylic I placed inside a shadow box. The stickman splat is painted on the inner side of the glass. So viewer is looking into my studio through the window. Although not for sale(since this is me), I would be open to do commissions for anyone battling stickman who needs one to hang in their studio as a reminder not to let the stickman win. My website is kellysterrgallery .com
Chris “Chumpy” Lyons
Artist Name: Chris “Chumpy” Lyons Best Way To Contact Artist: www.chumpyssketchbook.com Is It For Sale: No Name Of Piece: “The Eyes We See Through” Artist Statement: We see and interact with the world through all kinds of lenses. When we look inside, we tend to see through and adopt the lenses of the inner critic but also our inner champion. Sometimes we adopt the critic. Sometimes we adopt the champion. The two seem to be locked in a cycle of trying to undo and destroy the work of the other. Ink, gel pen, and alcohol marker on toned tan paper. 9″x9″ Original not currently for sale, but will be making prints available for sale soon. www.chumpyssketchbook.com https://allmylinks.com/chumpyssketchbook
cRuz kAi
Artist Name: cRuz kAi Best Way To Contact Artist: cruzkaihawaii.com Is It For Sale: Yes Price: $290.00 Name Of Piece: Manipura Artist Statement: This painting depicts the “lotus” sitting position of meditation, grounding to remove the negative energy, replacing it with positive energy. The Third Chakra, Manipura, also known as the Solar Plexus, is represented by the color yellow. It’s where we hold our will-power, our personal power, our confidence, and even our reliability, and so on. It’s located around the navel area up to the sternum. Original artwork by cRuz kAi Acrylic on Canvas 18” x 24” cruzkahawaii.com
Hollyjcat
Artist Name: Hollyjcat Best Way To Contact Artist: Email, Discord, or Instagram Is It For Sale: No Name Of Piece: The Inner Struggle Artist Statement: When I first saw this prompt, I wasn’t sure what to make. But then I thought if might be interesting if a drawing stylus was the weapon of choice to fight back against ‘the stickman.’
This piece represents my internal struggle with creating art, which I often picture as a battle. The right side of the pupil represents ‘the stickman,’ the negative side of my internal dialogue. The weapon of choice, the sword, represents how words can very easily pierce deeper than any blade.
On the left side, battling against ‘the stickman,’ is ‘the champion,’ the positive side of my internal dialogue. The weapon of choice, the drawing stylus, represents the art I create to battle against those negative notions that assail my creativity.
The eye encasing the them represents me as the observer, witnessing the conflict to create art going on inside my mind. The “I shouldn’t'” create something wages war with the “I should” create something, and thus this internal struggle of creating continues.
Marilyn Savage
Artist Name: Marilyn Savage Best Way To Contact Artist: gabrielleartsnv@gmail.com Is It For Sale: No Name Of Piece: Duality Artist Statement: This piece was created for the Collab Lab. The eagles represent the competing voices in our heads, one telling us that we can do it and the other telling us that we can’t. The contrast between the two eagles further illustrates the theme. One eagle is perfectly groomed and the other one is a bedhead. The viewer can decide which eagle represents which voice. The size is approximately 12” x 16” and the medium is soft pastels.
KYLE M WOOD
Artist Name: KYLE M WOOD Best Way To Contact Artist: kyle@kylewoodcreations.com Is It For Sale: Yes Price: $1200.00 Name Of Piece: All Those Conversations In My Head Artist Statement: Depicting the inner dialog that does on in my mind. We all have unique worlds that make up our thoughts and internal discord. Here is a glimpse into my brain jar. Acrylic on canvas, three feet by three feet. The original and prints of the original are available on my site http://www.kylewoodcreations.com
Sara
Artist Name: Sara Best Way To Contact Artist: Saraartist1508@yahoocom Is It For Sale: Yes Price: $600.00 Name Of Piece: Anxiety Illustrated Artist Statement: Seriously believing I was dying led me to create a treatise on the positive and negative mirrors of both my life and my artistic creativity thus, symbolically reflecting the truth, the actual distortion and decay of all existence. Reality stares back at us from within. … Set of two 11inX 14in oil on canvas paintings. $600 total
Thomas Wofford
Artist Name: Thomas Wofford Name Of Piece: Composed Artist Statement: Title “Composed” 48×34 Acrylic on Masonite board. I had to really think about this one to imagine a image within the premises of this challenge. Negative internal thoughts (Slenderman) box to left with hand dangling eye is what we see thru our on filters. Face at bottom is nothing more than stepping back and realized the worries was for nothing.
There comes a point in life as an artist where you reach a milestone. This is it for me. It is happening on Tuesday, June 29 from 6-8 pm. I have admired and loved what Luna Fine Art Gallery has been doing for the last couple of years and have wanted to feature my art there and be a part of that creative family. Anyone that knows me knows that the connections I make in life with other humans are meaningful beyond measure. I have loved the friendships I have cultivated with people who have supported and rooted for both Klee and me during our creative journey.
In working with Luna, I have become friends with two extremely creative and giving people that I am honored to share this milestone with.
The Stuff of Life: Depictions of the Human Experience of a Rogue Artist.
I know that this show is a celebration of my creative career, but I wanted to make sure I celebrated Luna’s efforts and encouragement. My exhibition would not be what it is without their creative ability to see something that may not have been so clear to me. I am beyond excited to share my solo exhibition with you because of this. So a big shout out to the gallery directors, Lisa Puzon and Shaughnessy Johnson for being so absolutely amazing.
If you are reading this, chances are you have followed me throughout my creative journey, some of you have been there since the beginning. I adore you and I want to give you a shout-out as well. The thing that makes this show so special to me is that some of you have had a huge impact on my life and it is reflected in the art that I create. This is our show. An exhibition of the amazing moments I have shared with you in the last decade or so.
The Exhibition is called The Stuff of Life: Depictions of the Human Experience of a Rogue Artist.
This exhibition is a testament to the human spirit. To the beauty and power, we all possess as humans. It is the culmination of a 10-year creative journey where I challenged myself to stand in my own skin and allow myself to see the beauty in the world. This is the sharing of the calling within each work that I create to explore and understand the human experience.
Over 30 Artworks By Rafi
There will be seating, some words will be spoken by some amazing humans (including Klee, she is nervous and would appreciate your support), and refreshments on opening day. I would love it if you joined us. We will also have a special unveiling and a lot of fun so prepare yourself for an epic time.
WHAT: Art Exhibition – The Stuff of Life: Depictions of the Human Experience of a Rogue Artist. WHEN: Tuesday, June 29 from 6-8pm – Ballroom A WHERE: Luna Fine Art Gallery, Hilton Pensacola Beach,12 Via De Luna Dr, Pensacola Beach FL 32561 WHY: Because this is going to be amazing. You are going to want to bring friends as well so you can show them how cool you are.
Find out more about the show and how awesome it is going to be by watching the video below:
For all of the amazing humans that follow us online and are from all parts of the world, we will be recording the event and sharing it with you next weekend.
On June 8th, in the early morning hours, I left something special around the beautiful town of Pensacola, FL, in the form of 100 sculptures.
I was inspired by the recent sale of a sculpture by artist Salvatore Garau. His sculpture auctioned off for $18K, but I wanted my sculptures to be displayed prominently around town for everyone to enjoy.
This particular project required days of planning and plotting to pull it off, after all, 100 sculptures are a lot of works of art. Luckily, I made them small enough to handle in one trip in my vehicle, and Klee helped me move them into place. I wanted them to be small enough for people to take home. I only ask that they do not take home multiples.
Artist Rafi Perez With Some Of His Sculptures
Because the sculptures are small, I estimate the value of each at about $500.
Salvatore Garau said of his sculpture, “It is a work that asks you to activate the power of the imagination.”
In February of this year, at the Piazza Della Scala in Milan, Salvatore Garau exhibited BUDDHA IN CONTEMPLATION. As seen in the picture, this sculpture is marked out by square tape on the cobble-stone.
BUDDHA IN CONTEMPLATION
I determined that the tape would eventually fade and fall apart, so it was unnecessary. In fact, I believe it is damaging to the sculptures, and thus, none of my sculptures are marked out by tape.
The 100 sculptures have been left in prominent areas around downtown Pensacola and displayed by some of my favorite businesses.
My sculpture series is called “No hay nada aquí,” and I hope they will bring much joy to the beautiful people of Pensacola. I also hope this inspires other artists around the world to share their art with their favorite places. I plan on expanding on this series and displaying them around New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Miami. My ultimate plan is to eventually display the series in cities and towns around the world.
Salvatore Garau said, “The vacuum is nothing more than a space full of energy, and even if we empty it and there is nothing left, according to the Heisenberg uncertainty principle, that nothing has a weight. Therefore, it has an energy that is condensed and transformed into particles, that is, into us.”
However, my sculptures are made up of the evaporated tears of a captured chupacabra who cries when tickled with a fiery Pheonix feather. Since the artist mentions the Heisenberg uncertainty principle in the wrong context, I would like to say that my pieces are explained by the theory of relativity. So there is your explanation with some physics thrown in.
Close Up Of Sculptures “No hay nada aquí.”
I also have a painting that is part of this series for sale in my store. Please check it out by clicking on the image below. Once you see the listing make sure to click on the “find out how to purchase” button for some additional info.
“Esto Es Aire” Invisible Painting Original Wall Art by Artist Rafi Perez Unseeable Medium on Intangible Canvas 48X48
To hear more about our thoughts on this particular art style, you can watch the video below.
Also if you happen to be in the Pensacola Beach area Rafi will be having a solo exhibition at Luna Fine Art Gallery at the Hilton On Pensacola Beach (12 Via De Luna Dr, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561) from June 29th – September 9th. By the way, this show will have tangible paintings you can see and touch, although I may bring some of my invisible sculptures.
View the amazing artwork of the Rogue Artists in this amazing show. The Challenge for inside out had three parameters:
Parameter 1 – Juxtaposition of Inside/Outside and whatever that means to you. Can be emotional, physical, topographical, etc.
Parameter 2 – Incorporate a tree that represents one side of this duality. The tree can be as literal or abstract as you like ie: made of mechanical parts, composed of sound, a combination of fantastical elements, etc.
Parameter 3 – Incorporate a landscape that represents the other side of this duality. The landscape can also be as literal or abstract as you like ie: a completely imaginary landscape, a soundscape, or an interpretation of a landscape memory, etc.
I am excited to share these with you because they really push some boundaries. If you are interested in any of the pieces below that are for sale, please contact the artist. Enjoy this awesome show. You can watch the video below, enter the virtual gallery (on a different site), or scroll down this page.
Esther L Jones
Artist Name: Esther L Jones Best Way To Contact Artist: https://www.estherljones.com Is It For Sale: Yes Price: $272.00 Name Of Piece: These Rocks Are Thee Artist Statement: This piece exemplifies a poem I’ve loved for years: the title is my favorite line from the poem. The rocks can be seen as a hindrance or as protection. The lack of nutrients and harsh landscape can be perceived as a desert that deprives or a place that forces slow and difficult but very strong growth.
Ellen von Reiser
Artist Name: Ellen von Reiser Best Way To Contact Artist: Commissions@starrynightdiner.com Is It For Sale: No Name Of Piece: Secret Garden Artist Statement: This piece is full of significance for me personally. Every object has a story. The garden is full of things I love or admire. The forest is full of my current life. The piece was drawn in Adobe Fresco with an Apple Pencil.
Angel Coleman
Artist Name: Angel Coleman Best Way To Contact Artist:
Is It For Sale: No Name Of Piece: Picnic With Mom But Without Her Artist Statement: This was a very emotional piece for me to sculpt. Mom is the center of the family though her illness is larger than life and hangs over the entire family. She is oblivious to her children and husband that play around her. Only the alcohol brings color to her life. Emaciated and haggard, she continues to drink until the poison spills out of her and will eventually spoil the family outing.
Sherry D Beckstead
Artist Name: Sherry D Beckstead Best Way To Contact Artist: FB.com/sherrysoilpaintings.com Is It For Sale: Yes Price: $1,500.00 Name Of Piece: Path to Consciousness Artist Statement: This piece represents the duality of life. The tree represents humanity standing in the reality of the now. While the landscape represents our ever-searching path for something more that can only be found within us. The higher consciousness of our beingness.
Jeanne GFellers
Artist Name: Jeanne GFellers Best Way To Contact Artist: email Is It For Sale: No Name Of Piece: Growth Along the Road of Disability Artist Statement: 5″x7″ This is a very personal collage piece. The desert landscape bears many but certainly not all the negative wordage I’ve heard over the decades as an author, artist, and disabled person. Defying these words is the full-of-life woodland being who is turning it all out and wears positive affirmations. This happy tree person is who I strive to be. Pushing the multi-layered negative BS aside and the resulting growth hasn’t been an easy process, that’s for certain, but it’s been my unique road to take and one I’m still on. You can find my writing and art at https://jeannegfellersauthor.com
Melissa Peacock
Artist Name: Melissa Peacock Best Way To Contact Artist: melissa@yellowmellearts.com Is It For Sale: Yes Price: $200.00 Name Of Piece: Be Productive Artist Statement: Visiting the peach orchard for the last time, I was shocked to see the trees had hollowed out until there was only bark left. My grandpa filled the trunks with wooden planks and wrapped them with ropes so that the trees could have one last productive year. Despite being half-dead, the orchard was ready with its harvest of peaches as usual. Relatable.
Artist Name: Debbie Tlach Best Way To Contact Artist: debra_tlach@yahoo.com Is It For Sale: No Name Of Piece: Feeling Human Artist Statement: The will to grow as a feeling human in the face of forces (relentless cogs) that can cause us to retract and shut down (emotionally or otherwise). We can consciously decide our reactions to these forces (hopefully to deeply feel & still flourish). artistgirlsmuse on Instagram
Corey Johnston
Artist Name: Corey Johnston Best Way To Contact Artist: email Is It For Sale: No Name Of Piece: The Tree of Hopes and Dreams Artist Statement: Digital Art, Procreate App, 12.9″ iPad Pro and Apple Pencil
This piece is about stepping out of dark vast empty space, and toward an inner light that is brighter and laden with potential, but scary, too. For me, it is about a state of middle-ness. It is about the transitional state of not knowing whether something is sinister or safe and whether trust can be extended or not. Between being sure and being vulnerable. As Shakespeare said, “To be or not to be.” There is a moment before making the choice, before taking the step, before walking into something unknown from something sure (even if it’s dark and endless). It is about not knowing how to interpret the signs you feel are obviously there. It is about fear of the unknown, even if the known is eternal darkness of endless depth.
I think we learn how to deal with this state in different ways as we grow up. For me, as a young person, this fear was sometimes paralyzing at moments. And I see many young people in my life experiencing the same trepidation of the unknown in their own ways.
Artist Name: Dana Ellis Best Way To Contact Artist: https://www.danaellisart.com/ Is It For Sale: Yes Price: $220.00 Name Of Piece: Letting Go Artist Statement: She feels trapped by her thoughts, her life, her insecurities, and feeling judged. As she sets the bird free, maybe she will free herself.
18″ x 18″ oil painting on stretched canvas. Free US shipping Instagram: dana_ellis_art Facebook: Dana Ellis Art
Annie Sylling
Artist Name: Annie Sylling Best Way To Contact Artist: annies@anniesylling.com Is It For Sale: Yes Price: $500.00 Name Of Piece: Inner Peace Artist Statement: I was contemplating this challenge while lying awake one night, happens a lot (the lying awake). This idea popped into my head. Use the challenge to portray keeping inner peace despite the state of the world around us. The painting depicts a girl in meditation surrounded by the chaos of the world. Inside the girl is a peaceful garden with a tree. This is her place of refuge. I believe we can find peace within ourselves while living in a chaotic world. I used a 22″x28″ canvas incorporating collage, acrylics and marker. You can view more of my work here: http://anniesylling.com
Zoe Noble
Artist Name: Zoe Noble Best Way To Contact Artist: angrygirlembroidery@gmail.com Is It For Sale: Yes Price: $1,000.00 Name Of Piece: 2020 Artist Statement: I designed this hoop as a reflection of the year. I wanted to show inside as a tranquil, safe space, so I made the scene outside the window barren and fiery in contrast to the thriving plants inside. I added a landscape painting to the wall to represent our memory of the outside compared to the actual scene out the window. Personally, I started missing school and trying to keep up with classwork at home in my teens when I became chronically ill and disabled, so to me this piece is also representative of my own experience with home being a refuge in comparison to the inaccessible outside world, and how that has become a common experience amid the pandemic. I wanted to make a scene that idealizes staying inside instead of portraying the inside as a prison and framing the outside as the place the viewer wants to be, not only because I think it’s important to protect ourselves and our communities in the midst of a pandemic as much as we can, but also because framing social distancing as a cage is, in my opinion, framing the experiences of disabled people like me that have been staying home and asking for digital access to things like work and school for years as a pitiful or miserable existence, and I don’t think that’s true. While it’s absolutely understandable to miss life before the pandemic, I think it’s important to remember that preferring in-person jobs or classes does not make the digital access we have created a bad thing for everyone.
Artist Name: JulieAnn (TheRosemaryCat) Best Way To Contact Artist: therosemarycat@gmail.com Is It For Sale: No Name Of Piece: Theories of Relativity Artist Statement: Graphite on 11×14 Bristol Paper
‘Theories of Relativity’ touches on perspective of both space and time. We often give the concept of time much more power over us than it really has. Time is what we create it to be; it can be either fluid and expansive, or it can be rigid and confining. Likewise, the way each of us sees the world around us makes space subjective, as in how we may perceive the trees outside the window, or the ‘tree’ in the room. Our personal freedom depends on our perspective rather than our environment or circumstances.
TheRosemaryCat can be found on Redbubble.
Cruz Kai
Artist Name: Cruz Kai Best Way To Contact Artist: cruzkaihawaii.com Is It For Sale: Yes Price: $200.00 Name Of Piece: Interdependent Artist Statement: This painting represents climate change -in which animal, plant life and the humans are directly and indirectly affected. Acrylics on canvas – 16” x 20”
Kelly Sterr
Artist Name: Kelly Sterr Best Way To Contact Artist: Kellysterr@comcast.net Is It For Sale: Yes Price: $480.00 Name Of Piece: Morning Sunrise Artist Statement: 16 x20 Acrylic This piece reminded me of the journeys down the shore when I was younger to go fishing early in the morning with the sun rising up above the horizon.
The Clover Artist
Artist Name: The Clover Artist Best Way To Contact Artist: thecloverartist@gmail.com Is It For Sale: Yes Price: $20.00 Name Of Piece: Crystal Spire Growth Artist Statement: I just got the space in my life to figure myself out. Sometimes left feels like an alien planet i’m trying to travers. Sometimes I feel like a small sapling most thought was dead but just waiting for the right conditions to flourish. So I made this striking piece to symbolize how I feel in the alien landscape we all call life. Some problems seems monumental some seem so vast you’ll never reach the other side but if you just keep going, just keep growing it’ll all work out in the end. I create art to enlighten the soul and transport you to magical places thank you for coming along with me on this journey!
Klee Angelie
Artist Name: Klee Angelie Is It For Sale: No Name Of Piece: Two Trees Artist Statement: This poem is about a being that is trying to understand itself and its relationship with its world, by observing others around it and questioning which ways of “being” are most valuable and fulfilling. In that way, it’s about making comparisons and never-ending questions that don’t provide any real answers. What is underlying the story, is the idea that the being isn’t looking at “others” at all. What it’s really observing is a partial reflection of itself in one direction (representing the past and memories), and a changing shadow silhouette of itself in another direction (representing future hopes and aspirations). Neither provides a full picture, and neither (past or future) allows the being to live in the present moment while it remains wrapped up in these observations and questions. It understands in a way, that it thrives and feels most whole in the present, just being what it is, but it’s unsure if this is a worthy and meaningful existence. I think deep down, it knows it is.
FULL POEM:
I saw two trees from a distant view, In a distant light, as I focused sight, As I pondered old and I pondered new, As I wondered what’s real, and I wondered what’s life.
One stood by a river, in a valley below, It’s roots appeared strong, but it seemed to quiver. As if never too sure what form it would know, As if never too sure it was there by the river.
But the sun shone upon it, Just like it did me, And even though it was faint and hazy, It felt known, and on it, Just like upon me, There did seem a tangible quality.
As I reflected, a question asked, If I felt uncertain, and what did that mean? Does a strong foundation one can almost grasp, Make for a full life, down by the stream?
One stood by a manor, on a hilltop high, It’s branches immense, almost endless in reach, But no roots to behold, just aloft like the sky, As if never knowing the soils deep.
But the sun shone upon it, Just like it did me, And even though it was changing and vague, It sprawled out, and on it, Just like upon me, There did seem a dynamic something at play.
As I projected, a question anew, If I felt ungrounded, and what of it still? Do dizzying heights one can barely view, Make for a full life, up on the hill?
My companions would come with the light of each day, And would go then each night, and would leave me to wonder. Sometimes I would dream them and such they could stay, But always would daunt me with theories asunder.
What tree would I be, which tree has the knowing? If I only could choose to aspire to one… Which of these two trees truly lives and is growing? Which of these two trees can feel soil and sun?
As for me, I stand present, between these two. As for me, I grow steady, both day and night. From the deepest of depths which embrace my roots, For impossible stars grace my branches alight.
But is it enough if I’m only this day? If I only know now, and with simplest mirth, If I reach ever deeper, but also I stay, In the moment which, each moment, gives me new birth. If I reach ever higher, but also I stay, In the moment which, each moment, renews my worth.
From a singular vantage, endless worlds to unearth.
Marianne Hasseldal
Artist Name: Marianne Hasseldal Best Way To Contact Artist: my instagram: marrys_gallery Is It For Sale: No Name Of Piece: If I were the last you would choose me Artist Statement: A contrast between life and death. Life symbolized by the tear and death symbolized by the barren landscape reflected in the eye. After many weeks of pondering what to paint for the collab challenge, this vision dropped into my mind very suddenly and I loved the disturbing thought of a tree growing and making an eye its home. This is a digital painting. You can find my work on instagram at https://www.instagram.com/marrys_gallery/ If you are interested in purchasing my art you can send me a message there.
Christopher Doll
Artist Name: Christopher Doll Best Way To Contact Artist: email, Discord, or JOIN ME ON TWITCH.TV EVERY WEDNESDAY 6PM PST Is It For Sale: Yes Price: $250.00 Name Of Piece: Pressure Inversion Artist Statement: Extreme weather and tornados were frequent dreams, having grown up in Michigan. The skies would turn quickly. It’s a scene I had witnessed several times. The wind picks up, bending the trees. Shredding them. I am outdoors, and there is little time to get underground. Where it’s safe. Often I witness the scene through a door with a window. But it offers no protection. I haven’t yet captured it properly in paint, but I try every few years. 9″ x 12″ Oils on canvas Contact me via email or through my site at https://www.christopher-doll.com
KYLE M WOOD
Artist Name: KYLE M WOOD Best Way To Contact Artist: http://www.kylewoodcreations.com Is It For Sale: Yes Price: $900.00 Name Of Piece: Living Within Worlds Divided Artist Statement: Seeing the line between realities leads to the door of answers, but the door of answers is out of reach. The same tree is organic in one world and mechanical in the other. They are borrowed from each other’s reality to bring a magical light into life. Mixed media on two-foot by three-foot wood panel at three-quarters inch thick. Prints will be available on my site. A small printable version is free on my treasure section of my site.
Sara Vicky Neville
Artist Name: Sara Vicky Neville Best Way To Contact Artist: Email address. Saraartist1508@yahoocom Is It For Sale: Yes Price: $600.00 Name Of Piece: Princess of the moon and her pet cow contemplating whether to jump over cause she afraid of heights Artist Statement: I love the moon. Period. And all things moon-like Saraartist1508@yahoo.com 2/8×10’s..1/11×14. Acrylic
Rafi Perez
Artist Name: Rafi Perez Best Way To Contact Artist: https://rafiandklee.com/contact-us/ Is It For Sale: Yes Price: $395.00 Name Of Piece: Born Out Of The Cold Artist Statement: This piece symbolizes growth and rebirth. In 2020, especially in the dark winter days, it was easy to get wrapped up in the darkness of it all. The world felt like a dark place. Turmoil, death, and horror seemed to be the main topic of discussion. The piece is about the realization that even in that darkness, you can bring sunshine, you can bring color, and you can bring joy. No matter the circumstance of the world around you, the world you carry inside of you is impacted by you and only you. So even when inundated, you can be born out of the cold and into the warmth. Klee stated that the piece makes her think of spring being born out of winter, which felt very powerful to me and is in line with my feelings. 18X24 Mixed Medium, plaster face (my face)
Thomas Wofford
Artist Name: Thomas Wofford Name Of Piece: Cerat Mirazur Artist Statement: This creation is an interpretation of the collab theme in an extremely abstract vision reflecting on a front view “Cerat” which is outside. The inside vision is a mental picture of “Cerat” and Mirazur which is the vision of blue. The tree representation is slender lines throughout the piece.
ARTIST MATERCLASS WORKSHOP - October 10, 2023 at 10:00 am – 11:30 am
Artist Masterclass - Session 1 - Getting Started https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WV9H5V7i_hw
ARTIST MASTERCLASS WORKSHOP October 10, 2023 at 1:00 pm – 1:45 pm
ARTIST MASTERCLASS WORKSHOP - Session 2 - Pricing and Showing Your Art https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rqwPzJfE61E
ARTIST MASTERCLASS WORKSHOP October 10, 2023 at 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm
ARTIST MASTERCLASS WORKSHOP - Session 3 - Marketing Yourself Creatively https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VflkQyZorog
ARTIST MASTERCLASS WORKSHOP October 10, 2023 at 3:00 pm – 3:45 pm
ARTIST MASTERCLASS WORKSHOP - Session 4 - How to Maximize Your Web Presence https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YZYawFxatOw
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