Tag: EVENTS – Festivals And Shows

Posted on by — 2 Comments

Mini Monsters: My Exciting Journey of the 24 Minis Exhibition! September 7th

Hey, awesome humans and monster enthusiasts!

I’ve got some big news—and by big, I mean big for me and big for my collection of 24 adorable, slightly creepy, but definitely lovable mini monsters. That’s right, I’m officially part of the 24 Minis Exhibition at the Manos Gallery near Pittsburgh (in Tarentum), and it’s going down on Saturday, September 7th. It’s going to be a wild ride of tiny canvases and even bigger emotions, and I am beyond excited.

I’m also feeling a little nervous. (Wait, what? Me? Nervous?!) Yep, I know—totally not my usual vibe. You’d think after years of putting myself out there, showing art, making music, doing YouTube, I’d be immune to this kind of thing, right? Nope! Something about sharing my 24 mini monsters with the world at my first group show in years has me feeling like I’m about to step into the art Hunger Games, and I forgot my bow and arrow.

I’ve worked on big, bold pieces for years, but squeezing all that energy, quirk, and emotion into 6×6-inch canvases? That’s a whole different challenge. And while these little monsters are ready to show their happy, chaotic faces, I’m wondering if they’ll play nice with the other 44 incredible artists in the show. It’s like sending your kids to their first day of school—will they make friends, or will they be the weirdos eating glue in the corner? (I mean, they are monsters, after all).

Now, I know it sounds like I’m overthinking things (I probably am), but this show feels special in ways I can’t even fully explain. I have an official gallery space, I’ll be there, and I’ll be in a show surrounded by some of the most talented artists around, with my tiny monsters standing proudly by my side. And let’s not forget—I’ll have other works of art on display too, so it’s a full-on Rafi Perez takeover at Manos Gallery! (not really, it’s a big gallery.)

So, when is the opening reception?

  • When: Saturday, September 7th, from 4-8 PM.
  • Where: Manos Gallery, 320 E. 5th Ave, Tarentum, PA.
  • Why: Because you need to see these 24 tiny monsters in person! And maybe take one home…just saying.

Watch Video Here:

Also, Klee and I will be there with bells on (maybe literally, maybe not—you’ll have to show up to find out), and we’re contributing something special for the fundraiser supporting the Highlands High School theater group. It’s all about giving back and making this event as epic as possible!

I’m ready to face this tiny art challenge head-on—even if my stomach is doing a mini-monster flip every time I think about it. But honestly, that’s the beauty of being an artist, right? Putting yourself out there, feeling a bit scared, and doing it anyway. And if you’ve ever wondered if I still get nervous after all these years, well, here’s your answer: YES! But that’s what makes this journey exciting.

Klee and I will be there for the reception!

So, come on down to the Manos Gallery this Saturday. Let’s celebrate art, creativity, and community together! If nothing else, come watch me sweat through the excitement of sharing my tiny monsters with the world. I promise you—it’s going to be a blast!

See you there, and let’s make this an unforgettable night of mini art and big fun!

-Rafi

Posted on by — 5 Comments

How to Survive a Book Fair When You Have No Books

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where: In front of the Oil City Library

What: The Festival of the Book

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

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

Posted on by — 9 Comments

Panic Mode: Preparing for “Echoes Of Imagination” at The Manos Gallery

Hey there, awesome humans!

So, guess who has an upcoming solo exhibition at The Manos Gallery? Yep, it’s me! I’m beyond excited to announce that my latest collection, “Echoes Of Imagination,” will be on display starting July 11th, and we’re kicking things off with a reception from 4 PM to 8 PM. Mark your calendars, because it’s going to be an evening of art, inspiration, and (hopefully) an artist who had time to shower.

Now, let me paint you a picture (pun totally intended) of what’s happening in my studio right now. Imagine a scene from a high-octane action movie: paint flying everywhere, brushes in a chaotic dance, and me in the center, desperately trying to complete last-minute pieces like my life depends on it. The only thing missing is a dramatic soundtrack and a few slow-motion explosions.

Why do I always end up creating new pieces right before a show, you ask? Great question! Let’s just say it’s part of my creative process – I thrive on the adrenaline rush of last-minute inspiration. Plus, it gives me a great excuse to ignore my email inbox and live off takeout for a few weeks. (If the local pizza place knows me by name now. Is that a good thing? Asking for a friend.)

But in all seriousness, I couldn’t be more thrilled about “Echoes Of Imagination.” This collection is incredibly special to me, and I can’t wait to share it with you all. Each piece is designed to empower and inspire, and I hope that when you see them, you’ll feel a spark of power and wonder in your own life.

The reception on July 11th is going to be a blast. Not only will you get to see my latest works, but we’ll also have a chance to chat, laugh, and maybe even share a few artistic secrets. (Spoiler alert: One of my “secrets” is drinking VERY strong coffee. Shocking, I know.)

So, come on down to The Manos Gallery at 320 E 5th Ave, Tarentum, PA, and join me in celebrating this crazy, wonderful journey of art and imagination. And if you see me at the reception looking a bit covered in random paint, just remember – it’s all part of the artistic charm. Or at least that’s what I tell myself.

See you there! And in the meantime, if you need me, I’ll be in my studio, wrestling with canvases and trying to remember where I put whatever I was holding in my hand five minutes earlier.

Stay awesome!

– Rafi

P.S. If you happen to have any tips on how to get acrylic paint out of your beard, I’m all ears.

What:
“Echoes Of Imagination” – A solo art exhibition featuring the empowering and inspiring works of Rafi Perez. This collection showcases Rafi’s signature style, blending vivid colors, intricate patterns, and profound themes to captivate and inspire viewers.

Where:
The Manos Gallery
320 E 5th Ave, Tarentum, PA 15084

When:
Reception: July 11th, 4 PM – 8 PM
Exhibition Dates: July 6th to July 27, 2024

JOIN FACEBOOK EVENT PAGE AND LET US KNOW YOU ARE COMING (CLICK HERE)

Why:
Because it’s going to be an awesome time! “Echoes Of Imagination” is more than just an art exhibition; it’s a celebration of creativity, empowerment, and inspiration. Rafi Perez’s latest works invite viewers on a journey through the depths of human emotion and imagination. This exhibition provides a unique opportunity to connect with the artist, explore his creative process, and be inspired by the transformative power of art. Join us to experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Manos Gallery and to support and celebrate the arts in our community.

Posted on by — 1 Comment

EKPHRASIS: Writers And Artists – Gallery Reception Sunday

Hi Awesome Humans and Creative Souls,

Guess what? We’ve got something truly special brewing this weekend in Foxburg, and you won’t want to miss it. We are buzzing with excitement to be a part of The Red Brick Gallery exhibition: “EKPHRASIS: Writers Responding to Artists.” This isn’t just any art show—it’s a fusion of visual art and poetry that promises to ignite your imagination and touch your soul. This is an experience I’ve never had with my art and I’m stoked… can you tell?

Event Details:

  • Exhibition: “EKPHRASIS: Writers Responding to Artists”
  • Location: Red Brick Gallery, 17 Main Street, Foxburg
  • Reception and Poetry Reading: Sunday, 4-6 p.m.
  • Concert: Becky Buller and her band, following the reception

What’s Happening: “EKPHRASIS” is where visual art meets the written word. They’ve gathered the works of 15 incredible visual artists (myself included) and paired them with talented writers from the Bridge Literary Arts Center. These writers have crafted beautiful poems inspired by the artwork, creating a unique experience that blends two forms of artistic expression.

By the way, I had to look up “EKPHRASIS”—turns out it’s an ancient Greek term that means describing a piece of visual art in words. Who knew? Now we’re all a little smarter!

The curator, Jason Lewis, kicked off this brilliant idea with poet Phil Terman from the Bridge Literary Arts Center. They envisioned connecting their audience with a broader range of artists and writers. With the help of co-curator Barbara Pierce from Arts Oil City, they reached out to artists from the Roycroft collective, the Northwest Pennsylvania Artists’ Association, and the artist relocation program in Oil City. This is going to be epic!

Meet the Dynamic Duos of Poets and Artists:

  • Brady Buchanan with Karl Jacobson’s “Coal Tipple”
  • Raymond Gerrard Bugay with James Stewart’s “Young Poet”
  • Cory Childs with Richard Sayer’s “Weary Christ”
  • Cindy Eckert with Andrew Hazelton’s “Gliding”
  • Austin Gray with Kathe Umlauf’s “Screech Owl”
  • Aster Grim with Marcy Hall’s “World Bearing Turtle”
  • Byron Hoot with Keith Hileman’s “Autumn”
  • Tracy Lander-Garrett with Jamie Hunt’s “October Sunrise with Fog Rolling Downstream”
  • Garth Porter with Mary Hamilton’s “Journey”
  • John Miller with Greg Clary’s “Bashful Cow”
  • Barbara Rumore with CJ Hurley’s “River Alpha”
  • Deborah Sarbin with my own (Rafi Perez’s) “Source of Happiness”
  • Juanita Smart with Anne Cutri’s “Sun Drenched Vineyard”
  • Phil Terman with Mike Hoover’s “One of the Apples”
  • Patricia Thrushart with Julia McCray’s “Peekaboo Moon”

Why You Should Be Here: Because it is awesome, and you’re awesome… Sooooo. Truth is, adding poetry to a gallery experience isn’t just cool—it transforms the way you see and feel the artwork. Jason stated that this exhibit aims to build connections and celebrate the diverse creative talents flourishing in our region. And man, it’s going to be one heck of a celebration!

Redbrick Gallery Hours (For those that can’t make the reception):

  • Fridays: 1 to 6 p.m.
  • Saturdays: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Sundays: Noon to 5 p.m.

Come Join the Fun: We can’t wait to see you at the Red Brick Gallery this Sunday. Klee and I will be there with bells on… Well, that’s not true, but we will be wearing clothes, so that’s good. Come for the art, stay for the poetry, and enjoy a fantastic bluegrass concert by the award-winning Becky Buller and her band. It’s going to be a night of creativity, inspiration, and community. This is going to be awesome! 

See you there!

Rafi Perez

Posted on by — Leave a comment

Artist Sunday! Calling all art lovers and holiday enthusiasts!

Hey, fabulous folks of Oil City Pennsylvania, and beyond! I’ve got some exhilarating news that will add a splash of color and creativity to your Sunday plans. Drumroll, please… This November 26th, from 11 AM to 4 PM, get ready to immerse yourself in a dazzling celebration of local talent during the Artists Sunday extravaganza!

If you’re wondering what Artists Sunday is all about, let me break it down for you. It’s the perfect remedy for post-Thanksgiving and Black Friday madness. This Sunday is dedicated to supporting the incredible artists and art businesses right in your community. Say goodbye to generic gifts and hello to one-of-a-kind treasures crafted by the hands of your very own local artists.

Picture this: paintings that speak to your soul, jewelry that sparkles with personality, ceramics that redefine elegance, books that transport you to other worlds, prints and cards that are practically works of art themselves, mesmerizing photography, toe-tapping music, and beautifully illustrated books that are simply irresistible. The best part? All of these gems will be up for grabs, and they’re waiting for you!

Artist Sunday In Oil City PA 2023

But wait, there’s more excitement to unfold in Oil City! Although Klee and I won’t be showcasing our own masterpieces from 11-4, we’ve got something equally thrilling lined up. Brace yourselves for a mind-blowing special effects makeup presentation starting at 4:30 PM in the Great Room at the National Transit building (206 Seneca St, Oil City, PA 16301). Why, you ask? Well, our incredible friend Kaleb Lewis, an extraordinary make-up artist, is leading a make-up course for some seriously talented artists. Get ready for a face-off style showdown, where Klee and I, along with the awesome judges John Bernstein and Nick Hess, will be critiquing the magic just like on the hit show!

I can’t contain my excitement – it’s like I’m living a dream! So mark your calendars and make your way to Oil City between 11 AM and 4 PM. The entire town, from the north to the south side, will be buzzing with open studios and artists’ pop-ups. Feel free to explore the artistic wonders displayed in local businesses or dive into the creativity housed within the artist studios in the transit building.

Kaleb Lewis And His Awesome Make Up

And here’s the grand finale – at 4:30 PM, witness the spectacle as the special effects makeup presentation kicks off. It’s going to be an absolute blast, and I can guarantee you won’t want to miss it!

MAP OF ARTISTS SUNDAY

So, whether you’re a seasoned art connoisseur or just looking for a unique holiday experience, make Artists Sunday your destination. Join us in Oil City for a day filled with creativity, community, and pure artistic joy. Trust me; it’s going to be an event to remember! #ArtistsSunday #OilCityArtistry #CreativeFestivities

Artist Sunday In Oil City PA 2023

WHAT: Artist Sunday
WHERE: OIL CITY, PA (Downtown Area and National Transit Building)
WHEN: 11/26/2023 1-4 and 4:30 PM
WHY: Because it’s awesome!
Find out More Information on Arts Oil City Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/artsoilcity/

Artist Sunday In Oil City PA 2023
Posted on by — 1 Comment

FAM JAM CELEBRATION IN OIL CITY

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:

Posted on by — 6 Comments

Pensacola Art Event – The Stuff Of Life

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.

Posted on by — 4 Comments

Artist Leaves 100 Sculptures Around Pensacola FL

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.