EVENTS – Local And In Person - Art, Jewelry, And Creations By Rafi Perez And Klee Angelie

Posted on November 20, 2024September 21, 2025 by Artist Rafi Perez — Leave a comment

Exciting News: The Ribbon Cutting for the Venango County Makerspace is TONIGHT!

Come out and enjoy time with creative humans, cookies, coffee, and community—oh my! Tonight, from 4 PM to 6 PM, the 5th floor of the historic Oil City Bank building (100 Seneca St, Oil City, PA 16301) will come alive as we officially open the doors to the Venango County Makerspace!

Picture this: artists demonstrating their crafts, the smell of freshly brewed coffee mingling with the tantalizing aroma of an absurd amount of cookies, and—best of all—you get to hear me say a few words about how exciting this is!

Why I’m So Excited About This Space

Let me take a moment to gush about this building, because it deserves some love. Klee and I were lucky enough to get a behind-the-scenes tour of the renovations when we were invited by Side Hustle Brews to discuss a mural project for the space. Walking through the the old bank building, we could see the bones of its history and feel the buzz of its transformation.

I’m currently designing a mural for this incredible space, and it’s an honor to contribute artistically to a project that’s breathing new life into a piece of our town’s history. Being part of something this significant feels deeply rewarding—not just as an artist, but as someone who believes in the power of community and creativity to spark change.

And the Makerspace? Wow. It’s more than just a space in a renovated building—it’s the beating heart of something new and exciting in Venango County. It’s a place where ideas, innovation, and creativity can collide to build something greater. This project is a huge step for Oil City, and I’m beyond proud to not only have a paintbrush in this story but also to help organize this first-ever makerspace for the county.

Things are happening in Oil City and it is all very awesome.

What can you expect tonight?

Live Demos by Local Creatives: Get inspired watching talented makers do what they do best.
Coffee & Cookies: Yes, plural cookies. Enough to keep you sustained while you marvel at the creativity around you.
Registration Table: Make sure to sign up so you’re always in the loop for events, meetups, and workshops.
Behind-the-Scenes Tour: Come hear about the awesome plans we have for this space and the future.

We’re kicking things off with mighty energy—even if we’re small right now. And here’s a sneak peek of what’s coming in December (trust me, you’ll want to stick around for this lineup):

December Events and Meetups

🎨 Tuesday, December 4 | 5:30-7 PM
Sword Polishing Demonstration by Chris Osborne of Yugen Swords
Witness the art of polishing blades like a true artisan.

✏️ Thursday, December 5 | 5:30-7 PM
Drawing for Everyone
Whether you’re a doodler or a Da Vinci, this meetup is for you!

🚴 Tuesday, December 10 | 5:30-7 PM
Bike Maintenance & Riding Tips Meetup
Learn to care for your bike and ride like a pro.

🧵 Friday, December 13 | 5:30-7 PM
Fiber Arts Meetup & Crazy Quilt Block Workshop with Skylar Austin
Discover the joy of fiber arts and take home your very own crazy quilt block!

🖋️ Tuesday, December 16 | 5:30-7 PM
Writer’s Meetup & Workshop with Local Author Amanda Pica
Unleash your inner wordsmith and gain tips from an accomplished author.

🖨️ Thursday, December 19 | 5:30-7 PM
3D Printing Meetup
Step into the future of making with 3D printers, and maybe even design your own masterpiece.

What, Where, When, and Why?

What: Ribbon Cutting for the Venango County Makerspace
Where: 100 Seneca St, 5th Floor, Oil City, PA 16301
When: TONIGHT! (4 PM – 6 PM)
Why: Because creativity, community, and cookies are a recipe for awesomeness!

Come celebrate this exciting new chapter for Oil City, tour this beautifully renovated space, and see for yourself how creativity is shaping our community’s future. See you tonight, cookies in hand! 🍪

Posted on September 19, 2024December 28, 2024 by Artist Rafi Perez — 2 Comments

The Mural Chronicles: Imposter Syndrome, Paint Fumes, and Magic in the Air

Let me set the scene for you. The place? Our beloved Oil City Library, which just so happens to be one of the reasons Klee and I fell head over heels for this town. It was like a magnet for our creative souls, and when Marcy—my awesome friend, phenomenal artist, and co-owner of the local gem Woods and River—approached me with a mural project for this very library, how could I say no? Spoiler alert: I didn’t. I was all in, armed with brushes and enthusiasm!

Now, before we dive into the nitty-gritty of this adventure, let me just address something that every artist reading this knows all too well: Imposter Syndrome. Yes, it’s a thing. No, it doesn’t magically disappear when you’ve been doing this art thing for years. And yes, it showed up like an uninvited guest at the mural party. Despite having done murals before, this was one of those rare times where I’d be working with a team of talented artists, and boom—there it was, Imposter Syndrome, making me question if I’d forgotten how to hold a paintbrush. You’d think I was about to go on American Idol. But hey, that’s the artist’s life: confidence is a moving target, and we just push through it and re-establish our awesomeness!

So, after a few days of prepping (because you can’t just waltz into a mural project without a plan,) and some great brainstorming sessions with the local community, we were ready. I have to give major props to the community for their ideas. From book themes to children’s book animals, everyone had thoughts, and believe me, there were enough to fill the library shelves. It was like a crowd-sourced creative explosion.

Fast-forward to mural time. It’s a mix of excitement, nerves, and just enough coffee to power a small country (thank you, Woods And River). As we started, I remembered something: murals are problem-solving on steroids. You can plan all you want, but the moment your brush touches that wall, the surface has its own agenda. It’s like the wall is silently laughing, saying, “Nice try, pal. Let’s see what you’re really made of.”

Three days. That’s how long it took for the magic to really unfold. I watched all these artists, including myself, evolve throughout the process. What started as “Oh my gosh, what am I doing?” turned into “Oh yeah, we’re doing this!”. It’s amazing how teamwork and creativity combine to bring out everyone’s best. And the mural? It’s a beauty.

For those of you who have never had the joy (and mild terror) of working on a mural, it’s basically like herding artistic geese. Paint goes here, no wait—there. Can we move this section up? Is this color too bright? And what about the sun, is it drying this paint faster than we can work? The mural becomes this living, breathing thing, and you’re just along for the ride. The magic happens when you let go of control and start solving problems with a little bit of paint and a lot of heart.

When it was all said and done, I couldn’t have been prouder. Not just of the mural itself (which, if you find yourself at the library, you better take a glance and throw up a heart symbol to it), but of the artists who showed up, put their fears aside, and gave it their all. A huge shout-out to the Oil City Library and Erie Arts and Culture for making this project possible. You guys are awesome!

In other exciting news—because there’s always more brewing around here—we’ve got a meeting tonight (9/19/24) for the upcoming Venango County Makerspace! If you’re an artist, maker, creative soul, or a breathing human, you need to be there. It’s happening at 100 Seneca St (5th floor, baby!), and we want your input. Think tools, resources, classes—this space is going to be a creative haven, and we want YOU to be a part of shaping it. So come share your ideas, and let’s make some magic happen together!

Until next time, keep laughing, keep creating, and always, always embrace the chaos—because that’s where the real magic lives.

See you at the Makerspace!
—Rafi

Posted on September 6, 2024December 28, 2024 by Artist Rafi Perez — 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 August 28, 2024September 21, 2025 by Artist Rafi Perez — 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 June 26, 2024December 28, 2024 by Artist Rafi Perez — 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 May 31, 2024September 21, 2025 by Artist Rafi Perez — 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 April 11, 2024September 21, 2025 by Artist Rafi Perez — 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 November 22, 2023December 28, 2024 by Artist Rafi Perez — 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!

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.

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

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/

Posted on November 7, 2023December 28, 2024 by Artist Rafi Perez — 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.

PRE-ORDER CALENDAR

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.

GO TO MASTERCLASS

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 May 13, 2022December 28, 2024 by Artist Rafi Perez — 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!