Posted on Leave a comment

Ready to Rock the Creative Entrepreneur Conference!

THIS EVENT HAS BEEN POSTPONED TO MAY 17th, 2025. Registration will re-open at the beginning of 2025.

Get ready to mark your calendars and set your alarms, because the Creative Entrepreneur Conference is coming in hot, and it’s going to be a wild ride of artistic inspiration, creative camaraderie, and just the right amount of coffee-fueled Creative awesomeness! 

Last year, Klee and I had the absolute time of our lives at this conference. We laughed, we learned, and we made so many cool new friends that our phones are still buzzing with messages like, “When are we doing this again?” Well, the wait is over! We’re back and better than ever, ready to drop some serious knowledge bombs and have a blast while doing it. And this time, we’re not just doing one or two workshops—oh no. We’re bringing FOUR workshops to the table, because why not go big or go home, right?

Date: May 17, 2025
Location: Education and Training Center at Pitt Titusville (504 East Main St, Titusville, PA 16354)
Time: 8am-5pm
Deadline to Register: TBD
Cost: $75 per person (includes all sessions you choose to attend, an event tote bag, and all meals and snacks!)

What to Expect?

Imagine a day jam-packed with creativity, networking, and practical tips that will supercharge your artistic journey. From the moment you walk through those doors at 8am—yes, we know it’s early, but trust us, the coffee will be flowing—you’ll be surrounded by fellow creative souls all eager to level up their game.

We’ve got workshops that will help you turn your passion into profit, from pricing your artwork (yep, we’re spilling our secrets) to mastering the art of social media without losing your sanity. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, there’s something here for everyone. Along with the schedule below, a delicious lunch will be provided at noon! 

(TENTATIVE) Workshop Lineup:

9:30-10:30am:

  • Workshop #1: Website & eCommerce Strategy with Alexis Rhoades (She rocks!)
  • Workshop #2: Pricing Artwork with Rafi & Klee
  • Workshop #3: Bookkeeping/Sales Tax with T & T Admin Services

10:45-11:45am:

  • Workshop #1: Self-Promotion (Artist Statements/Bios) with Marcy Hall (We LOVE Marcy!)
  • Workshop #2: Marketing/Social Media/Branding/Logos with Rafi & Klee

1:15-2:15pm:

  • Workshop #1: Funding/Grants/Opportunities with Erie Arts & Culture (They’re AWESOME!)
  • Workshop #2: Photographing Your Work with Rafi & Klee

2:30-3:30pm:

  • Workshop #1: Galleries/Retailers with Wendy Neckers (Beautiful work and beautiful gallery!)
  • Workshop #2: Fairs/Festivals/Booth Displays with Rafi & Klee
  • Workshop #3: Business Strategy/Planning with Bridgeway Capital (They are such an awesome resource!)

3:45-5:00pm:

  • Networking/Opportunities with regional artists/art-related organizations (light refreshments provided)

Remember, workshops are on a first-come, first-serve basis, so if there’s something you’re dying to learn, make sure to sign up early! We don’t want you to miss out on your top picks. And speaking of picks, each person must register separately, so grab your spot before they fill up!

Why Should You Be There?

Aside from the fact that we’ll be there and we can’t wait to hang out with you (seriously, we’re psyched!), this conference is a golden opportunity to hone your craft, meet like-minded creatives, and maybe even find that missing puzzle piece you’ve been searching for in your creative business. Plus, who doesn’t love a good tote bag full of goodies, right?

Whether you’re in it for the tips, the networking, or just the snacks (we won’t judge), this event is going to be one for the books. So, bring your ideas, your questions, and your best “I’m ready to conquer the world” attitude. We can’t wait to see you there, laugh with you, learn with you, and most importantly, have a ridiculously fun time while doing it.

So, what are you waiting for? Sign up, show up, and let’s make some magic happen together. See you on September 14th!

P.S. Don’t forget to register by September 9th! Because nobody likes a last-minute scramble, especially when there’s creativity to be unleashed.

Stay awesome,
Rafi & Klee

P.S. here’s a little more info on the workshops Klee and I will be doing:

Pricing Artwork (9:30-10:30am): This one’s a biggie! We’ll dive into the art (and science) of pricing your creations. If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a piece you’ve poured your soul into and wondered, “What on earth do I charge for this?”—this workshop is for you. We’ll share our strategies, tips, and a few funny stories about our own pricing misadventures to help you find that sweet spot where art meets value.

Marketing/Social Media/Branding/Logos (10:45-11:45am): Let’s face it, social media can be a jungle, but it’s a jungle we can conquer together! We’ll cover everything from creating a cohesive brand to using social media to connect with your audience (without losing your mind in the process). Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to level up, we’ve got you covered.

Photographing Your Work (1:15-2:15pm): In this visually driven world, a picture is worth a thousand likes—uh, we mean dollars! We’ll walk you through the essentials of photographing your work to make it shine online and in print. From lighting tips to composition tricks, we’ll show you how to capture your art in its best light (pun intended).

Fairs/Festivals/Booth Displays (2:30-3:30pm): Ready to take your art on the road? We’ll share our experiences and tips for setting up killer booth displays that draw people in and make your work stand out at fairs and festivals. We’ll cover everything from booth design to customer interactions, so you’ll be ready to rock your next event like a pro.

So, if any (or all) of these sound like your jam, make sure to snag your spot and get ready for some serious learning and fun. We can’t wait to see what you create next!

Posted on 2 Comments

Join Me For This Awesome Workshop April 17th

Hello, beautiful creatives humans! I’m so excited about the upcoming workshop I have the honor of co-hosting. Your canvas awaits, and the world is ready to see what you create. Let’s make it happen.

On April 17th, in collaboration with Erie Arts and Culture, I’ll be diving deep into the heart of what it means to captivate your audience and transform your passion for art into a thriving, sustainable business. This workshop is more than a learning experience; it’s a chance to connect, grow, and step into the light as the creative you were meant to be.

Why am I so thrilled about this event? Well, it’s simple. Creativity is not just my profession; it’s my passion, my life’s work, and my way of connecting with the world. Over the years I’ve discovered not only the power of creativity but also the profound impact of sharing knowledge and empowering fellow artists. This workshop embodies that spirit of sharing and growth.

We’ll explore the essentials of making your art business a success, from captivating your audience to mastering the business aspects that many artists find daunting. But here’s the thing—it doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right tools, knowledge, and mindset, you can turn your art into not just a career, but a thriving business that reflects your unique vision and voice.

What can you expect from this workshop? A blend of fun, practical insights, and actionable strategies tailored for artists at any stage of their journey. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your art career to the next level, this workshop is for you. You’ll leave feeling inspired, equipped, and ready to tackle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Workshop Details

What: Working Artist 101 Workshop Series with Rafi Perez

When: Wednesday, April 17 · 6:30 – 8:00 PM EDT

Where: Raymond M Blasco, MD Memorial Library, 160 East Front Street Room 219, Erie, PA 16507

Why: Because it is going to be awesome!

Workshop Hosts

So, don’t let this opportunity slip away. Spots are filling up quickly, and I want to see YOU there. Click the link below to secure your spot now and join us for an evening that promises not just to enlighten but to transform.

Together, let’s unlock the secrets to making your art and your heart shine. See you on April 17th!

A Little More About Working Artist 101 Workshops

Working Artist 101 is a workshop series that teaches creative entrepreneurs foundational skills for building sustainable businesses. These workshops use hands-on exercises to allow participants to learn at their own pace. Sit in for one session or attend them all!

After participating in Working Artist 101, entrepreneurs will be prepared to take full advantage of business incubator programs like Bridgeway Capital’s ErieMade, complete strategic projects with the Beehive Network, and apply for grant support through Erie Arts & Culture and the Erie County Redevelopment Authority, among others.

Classes will be held from 6:30pm-8:00pm in Blasco Library’s Room 219 and virtually over Zoom.

• Wednesday, March 20 Career Planning
• Wednesday, April 17 Engaging Customers + Selling
• Wednesday, May 15 Recordkeeping
• Wednesday, June 5 Funding + Grantwriting
• Wednesday, July 17 Portfolio Development
• Wednesday, August 21 Time Management

https://www.facebook.com/ErieArtsandCulture

Register for all 6 workshops for $100, or for $20 per workshop. Participants who register for the entire Working Artist 101 curriculum may “audit” courses from ErieMade. We ask that you please register in advance to allow time for workshop materials to be prepared. If cost is a barrier to your participation, please contact Erie Arts & Culture staff.

This program is presented in partnership with Bridgeway Capital. Bridgeway’s ErieMade Business Academy is a cohort for creative entrepreneurs that offers 1:1 consulting and weekly group learning sessions on essential topics for businessowners, including marketing, financial literacy, and legal considerations.

Erie Arts & Culture will use Bridgeway Capital’s Impact Measurement System to collect participant data and track program impact through regular progress reports. The IMS is part of a statewide initiative to track the impact of public and private investments in creative small businesses.

Erie Arts & Culture thanks Springboard for the Arts for providing free access to their Work of Art: Business Skills for Artists, a comprehensive professional development curriculum which informed the development of Working Artist 101.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT ERIE ARTS AND CULTURE AT https://www.erieartsandculture.org/

Posted on 1 Comment

Chaos, Calendars, and Empowering Artist Souls

Welcome to the chaotic haven that is my studio! Today, I’m diving in with a mind as blank as a fresh canvas—yes, you heard it right, my brain’s on vacation. But don’t worry, I come bearing announcements that might just make your morning!

First things first: major life update! My daughter has parachuted into this artistic universe of mine, causing delightful chaos and a whirlwind of adjustments. We’re currently in the eye of the storm, navigating these uncharted waters, but oh boy, it’s a crazy adventure and I couldn’t be more thrilled!

Creativity With My Daughter In The Studio

Now, onto the second tidbit—massive thanks to all you wonderful souls who’ve snagged a Rafi 2024 limited edition calendar! They’re selling like hotcakes, but, there are still a few left. Wanna snatch one for yourself? Just hit that link down below and voila! Your year is about to get artfully organized.

And drumroll, please! The free masterclass has finally emerged from the depths of editing purgatory! It’s live on our courses section, on our rogue community site waiting for eager creative minds like yours to absorb its brilliance. No emails are required and no fuss—just pure, unadulterated knowledge. 

In the masterclass, we discuss the nitty-gritty of an artist’s journey. Now, I may sound like a cheesy motivational speaker every once in a while, but bear with me. One major hurdle for us artists isn’t out there in the big bad world, it’s right in our heads. Yup, it’s all about managing our business, time, and well, that little thing called life.

Artist Masterclass With Rafi And Klee

And here’s the golden rule—no sacrificing our soul for a sack of gold coins. It’s about making your mark in your own authentic way, becoming your own niche. The process? Seizing the reins of your career and feeling empowered to march forward in your creative conquest.

So just dive in and soak up our Rogueness like a sponge.

So, that’s the scoop for today. I might not have dropped any comedic bombs or life-altering revelations, but hey, we’re a family here, right? And sometimes, even I have days where words seem to evade me. But guess what? You guys are incredible, and I adore each and every one of you. Have a brilliantly creative week! Adios for now!

Posted on Leave a comment

FREE ARTIST MASTERCLASS BY RAFI AND KLEE

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. Join us on October 10th, 2023, for this full-day workshop. The event has passed, but you can watch the free masterclass below.

Are you an aspiring or seasoned artist or creative 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.


We are Offering Two Ways To Join Us For The Workshops:

Watch Free Masterclass Online


Session 1 – Starting a Creative Business

Session 2 – Pricing and Showing Your Art

Session 3 – Marketing Yourself Creatively Online and Offline

Session 4 – How to Maximize Your Web Presence

Session 5 – Capitalizing On Your Creativity


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.

Posted on 1 Comment

Unlock Your Creative Entrepreneurial Potential at the Creative Entrepreneur Conference!

I can’t even explain how excited we are to be a part of this event. In all my time as a working artist, I have never seen such an authentic demonstration of wanting to help our local creative community. Not only will this conference be extremely valuable to creatives, but it will also be fun.

Creative Entrepreneur Conference
An Opportunity for Creatives – Artists, Performers, Writers, and Artisans – to Learn How to be Better Entrepreneurs.
May 20, 2023

REGISTER ONLINE BY MAY 18, 2023
Pleasantville Camp
260 Third St., Pleasantville, PA 16341



Calling all artists, performers, writers, and artisans in Northwestern Pennsylvania! Are you ready to take your creative business to new heights? We are thrilled to share an incredible opportunity with you. The Creative Entrepreneur Conference, scheduled for May 20, 2023, at Pleasantville Camp, is designed to empower and equip creatives with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive as entrepreneurs. With a diverse lineup of sessions and esteemed presenters, this conference promises to be a game-changer for your artistic ventures.

Expanding Horizons:
The Creative Entrepreneur Conference aims to bring together professionals, organizations, agencies, service providers, and practicing artists under one roof. This convergence of expertise and passion creates a unique platform for learning and growth. Whether you’re just starting or looking to elevate your existing business, this event offers invaluable insights and best practices for success.

The Power of Knowledge:
The conference agenda is packed with concurrent sessions led by experts in their respective fields. These sessions cover a wide range of topics that are essential for creative entrepreneurs. From understanding intellectual property and copyright to mastering bookkeeping and taxes, branding, marketing, online sales, and participating in fairs and festivals, you’ll find guidance on every aspect of running a successful creative business.

Prominent Presenters:
Among the remarkable presenters, we’re particularly excited about the sessions hosted by us – Rafi and Klee Studios. However, this conference brings together many creative business owners and organizations. As owners of their own successful creative studio, and creative organizations, they will share their expertise on marketing, social media, and pricing art, as well as opportunities for creative growth. Their insights will undoubtedly inspire you to find the perfect balance between profitability and creative fulfillment.

Rafi Perez Live Seminar

Opportunities Galore:
One of the highlights of the conference is the exploration of various opportunities available to creatives in Northwestern Pennsylvania and beyond. From residencies and teaching opportunities to co-ops, exhibits, festivals, and organizations seeking performers, you’ll discover a wealth of prospects to showcase your talent and expand your network. The session will be led by Ashley Fosbrink, Kylee Mader, and Barbara Pierce, who will guide you through the numerous avenues waiting to be explored.

Networking and Exhibitors:
The Creative Entrepreneur Conference offers the ideal setting to network with like-minded individuals and potential collaborators. In addition, the event features several exhibitors, including the Allegheny National Forest Artist in Residence Program, Elk County Council on the Arts, Erie Arts and Culture, and the Wilds Cooperative of PA. Engaging with these exhibitors will open doors to even more opportunities and resources tailored to support your creative endeavors.

Registration Details:
We understand the importance of making this opportunity accessible to as many individuals as possible. Thanks to a grant secured by the Forest County Business Alliance from the USDA – Rural Development Rural Business Development Grant Program, the cost to attend the entire conference, including meals, is just $75 per person. However, space is limited, so we urge you to secure your spot promptly.

CLICK HERE TO GO TO THE REGISTRATION PAGE

To register, simply visit the online registration form and complete the process by May 18, 2023. Payment can be conveniently made via credit card. Don’t miss out on this chance to unlock your creative potential and take your business to new heights!

The Creative Entrepreneur Conference is a one-of-a-kind event that brings together creatives from across Northwestern Pennsylvania for a day filled with knowledge-sharing, networking, and inspiration. With a wide range of sessions and esteemed presenters, this conference provides a golden opportunity to learn how to thrive as a creative entrepreneur. Take the leap, register today, and embark on a transformative journey to elevate your artistic business to new heights!

For anyone who cannot make it, I will be recording the Rafi and Klee workshops and releasing them to our rogue community site members. More details on that soon.

Posted on 5 Comments

Untangle The Web With Us At TAGG – April 29th

I am honored and excited to announce that I will be talking with some amazing creatives at TAGG (Transit Art Gallery And Gifts) on Friday, April 29th starting at 7pm. You are invited to this laid back discussion about the importance of having a personal web presence, making it awesome, and how to demystify the entire process of putting yourself out there online using a simple approach and mindset.

What Will Happen At This Discussion?

We will begin with a little about us, who we are, what we have (online presence), and how we got there. We will talk about our amazing online community (The Rogues), and why we believe they follow two artistic dorks.

This is a very laid-back meeting where we will discuss:

Why Would You Want A Website?

What If You Don’t Know Technology?

Easy Ways To Get Started?

The Basics Of An Artist Website?

The Rogue Mindset And Approach To The Interwebs.

How To Get People To Visit Your Site.

How To Avoid Internet Antarctica.

What Is Mutual Excitement?

How Artists Are Powerful At Online Presence.

Throw Marketing Away And Create. (Marketing Book) 

What Will It All Cost?

We will then be opening the floor to questions and discussions of experiences of having a website and overall badassery of being an artist. My goal with this discussion is to empower people to simplify the process of opening and running their own website without a bunch of needless jargon. Hope to see you there!

WHAT: UNTANGLING THE WEB, A CASUAL CONVERSATION ABOUT WEBSITES.

WHY: Because it is going to be freakin amazing!

WHERE: At Transit Art Gallery & Gifts – 206 Seneca Street, Oil City,PA 16301 – (814) 676-1509

HOW: Tickets are $5 and you can purchase at the gallery, call number above, or email taggocac@gmail.com.

WHEN: Friday, April 29th starting at 7pm

Posted on Leave a comment

Watch Rafi’s Artist Talk – The Art Of Imperfect Art

A few weeks ago I spoke at the Santa Rosa Art Association about the perils of being a perfectionist as an artist. If I’m honest, being a perfectionist when it comes to certain things is important. For example, if you are performing open heart surgery or are operating on my brain, I would hope you are the perfectionist vs the guy who thinks that leaving a piece of gauze in my skull is just how it goes sometimes.

Rafi Perez Live Seminar

For the most part, I’m talking about perfectionism in the sense that it can be debilitating. Where you encounter the following problems:

You can only start in ideal conditions.

You never feel like a piece is finished.

You constantly get creative block.

You have lots of works in progress, but not so much ready to sell.

You constantly dwell on past failures.

You compare yourself to other artists, or people.

You never show your works in progress to other people.

You are losing motivation.

Being perfect is exhausting.

Rafi Perez Live Seminar

Enjoy the video of the talk. I mostly tell stories that frame the idea that trying to be perfect is silly, because I don’t believe there is such a thing. Let me know what you think?

Posted on Leave a comment

The Art of Imperfect Art – Talk By Rafi Perez

I’ll be doing a demo and talk about the beauty of imperfection at the Santa Rosa Art Association on February 23 at 9am.

I will share some of my experimental techniques, insights, advice, philosophy and inspiration while assisting in pushing outside of comfort zones by allowing the participants to get comfortable with making mistakes and seeing what comes out the other side. Embracing imperfection, and viewing it as perfection is my ultimate message.

Members and guests are invited to bring whatever art project they are currently working on and I will assist with the time remaining.

Urban Swinery Art By Rafi Perez

One of the subjects I’ll talk about is Wabi-sabi to describe the perfection of imperfection. According to Japanese legend, a young man named Sen No Rikyu sought to learn the elaborate set of customs known as the Way of Tea. He went to a tea-master who tested the younger man by asking him to tend the garden.

Rikyu cleaned up debris and raked the ground until it was perfect, then scrutinized the immaculate garden. Before presenting his work to the master, he shook a cherry tree, causing a few flowers to spill randomly onto the ground.

Abstract Gold By Rafi Perez

Wabi-sabi understands the tender, raw beauty of a gray December landscape and the elegance of an abandoned building or shed. It celebrates cracks and crevices and all the other marks that time and weather leave behind. It is to see the singular beauty in something that may first look decrepit, ugly, or unfinished.

Ultimately, wabi-sabi opens space for love. Love for others, and no less for ourselves. Love for our virtues and our scars, our strengths and our vulnerabilities.

It is this love that can lead to a deeper satisfaction with life. A deeper satisfaction with our art and creativity. To allow for the happy little accidents that can enhance the feeling of an original work.

After all, in a lifetime of fleeting moments, one after another, what bigger gift than to stare in the eyes of beauty – whatever form it may take – and to revel in its reflection of love.

The Santa Rosa Art Association meets at Pensacola State College, Milton Campus, in Building 4800 at 9 am.