Tag: Growth – Creativity and Inspiration

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Back in the Studio and Still Forgetting Why We Walked into a Room

Well, hello you awesome human you! I’ve got an update for you. The year started out feeling like we got shoved into a washing machine set to extra spin cycle—but I am beyond happy to report that Klee is BACK in the studio and feeling much better!

Now, we still have a doctor’s appointment next week where we’ll get the next set of instructions. It’ll either be awesome wisdom or looking at a chart while making vague humming sounds (you know what I mean). But the good news? So far, so good!

Us at the hospital for a bazillion times

The Delicate Balance (That Was Absolutely Annihilated by Life)

As you probably know, Klee and I balance a ton of creative stuff. We do art, murals, music, videos, podcasts, books, workshops, a Patreon membership, and occasionally remember to eat food. Our creative business runs like an elaborate juggling act, except the balls are on fire, someone keeps throwing in new ones, and gravity is unpredictable.

But then… BAM! A giant wrench fell out of the sky and CRUSHED the entire operation. And when I say “wrench,” I mean the kind that makes you question your entire existence while standing in the kitchen, staring blankly at a fridge that you know you opened for a reason but now have no clue why.

We’re just now picking up the pieces and putting things back together. Are we nailing it? Almost. Do we still walk into rooms and immediately forget why we’re there? Also yes. But I have faith that by next month, the balance will be restored, and I’ll stop opening my email inbox only to immediately forget why I did that in the first place.

Look at that beautiful creature at her bench!

So How Do We Balance So Much Creative Stuff?

Ohhh, I’m so glad you asked because I love talking about this! Balancing a creative life isn’t about having a perfectly organized schedule (hilarious, right?)—it’s about understanding your energy, priorities, and what actually keeps you moving forward. Here’s what helps us:

  1. Know What Absolutely Needs to Get Done First
    Not everything is equally urgent. Some things need to happen now (book deadlines, mural projects, feeding ourselves), while other things can take a backseat (reorganizing the entire studio because “it feels off”). Prioritize wisely.
  2. Make Creativity Part of Your Daily Life
    The trick isn’t finding time—it’s making creativity part of your routine, like brushing your teeth (but with more paint… wait, no, don’t brush your teeth with paint… the struggle is real). If you set aside even 20 minutes to do something (anything) creative daily, it keeps the momentum going.
  3. Respect Your Brain’s Bandwidth
    We all want to do ALL THE THINGS. But burnout is real. If your brain is fried, don’t force creativity—step away, walk around, eat a snack, or yell dramatically into the void (trust me, it helps). Your work will be better for it.
  4. Use the “Tiny Steps” Method
    If a big project feels overwhelming, break it into small, manageable steps. You don’t need to “write a book” today, but you can write 100 words. You don’t need to “paint a masterpiece,” but you can sketch an idea. Tiny steps add up faster than you think.
  5. Celebrate the Wins (Even the Small Ones!)
    If we only celebrate massive accomplishments, we’ll constantly feel behind. So celebrate finishing a draft, selling a piece, creating something new, or even just showing up for your creativity. Heck, celebrate remembering why you walked into a room! It’s a win!
She’s been on fire since returning to the studio

I think that’s about it… I could be forgetting something… 

Oh yeah! Have fun and don’t be all doomsday about what you didn’t get done. There is always tomorrow.

Thank You for Your Love and Support

To everyone who has sent love, well-wishes, and good vibes for Klee—we love you guys SO MUCH. Seriously. You’ve been incredible, and it means the world to us.

We’re getting back on track, slowly but surely, and we’re excited for all the creative chaos that’s coming next. Stay tuned for more art, more music, more randomness, and hopefully less walking into rooms confused.

Stay awesome, stay creative, and remember: if you forgot why you walked into a room, it was probably for snacks.

Love,
Rafi & Klee

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Don’t Listen To The Naysayers

Ah, the internet. A place where dreams are built, inspiration is shared, and someone, somewhere, is always ready to tell you why everything is doomed to fail.

Case in point: today, while perusing social media, I came across an article about the new brewery coming to 100 Seneca in Oil City. This is big news! A new business, an exciting venture, a fresh reason for people to gather, enjoy, and—let’s be real—sip on something delicious. Naturally, people were thrilled. Comments flooded in with excitement about the growth, the revitalization, and the fact that, yes, cool things are happening in Oil City!

Jeff giving us a tour of 100 Seneca

But alas, like a poorly written sequel to a great movie, the naysayers arrived. I saw this happen in Pensacola while I lived there, even with it being a beautiful town on the coast of Florida. The town was picking itself back up with many people being proactive, yet the humbugs voiced their “opinion” about how it was doomed to fail. Ten years later and I’m happy to announced that Pensacola is thriving. But, there will always be someone complaining no matter what you are trying to do.

You know the type. The ones who see a new opportunity and immediately predict its failure like they have some kind of crystal ball of doom. The ones who still pine for the “good ol’ days” while conveniently forgetting that the good ol’ days weren’t always that great. The ones who assume that because something is new, it must be bad, and because something didn’t exist before, it shouldn’t exist now.

I like to call them the defeatists.

As an artist, I know these creatures well. They are the ones who take great pride in explaining to me why my creative endeavors are impractical, why artists can’t make money, and why I should probably just get a “real job.” They stand at the sidelines, loudly declaring that the game is unwinnable—while never actually playing the game themselves.

Live painting at a VERY successful art show we put on in Oil City

A Brief History of Oil City’s Evolution (for the Defeatists Who Forgot)

Oil City, as the name suggests, once thrived because of oil. In fact, it was where it all began. It boomed. It thrived. It was the place to be. And then—surprise, surprise—big petroleum companies decided they could make more money elsewhere by destroying an entire town’s livelihood, packed up, and left. What followed was the opposite of an economic boom. (An economic oomph? An economic thud? A financial faceplant? Take your pick.)

But did Oil City roll over and give up? No! The town shifted gears, launched an artist relocation program, a Mainstreet Program, and people in the community stepped up and decided to make things happen. Others just sat on their hands and complained. Yet, despite the laziness and moaning of a few, the town slowly started rebuilding with creativity, community, and small businesses at its core.

Now, we have new businesses, a thriving art community, and growing opportunities. Change isn’t coming—it’s already here. And yet, some people still refuse to see it. Instead, they clutch their metaphorical pearls and reminisce about a time long gone, all while ignoring the incredible momentum happening right under their noses.

Most of our community and the surrounding communities are hungry for awesome things and pay attention to all the cool stuff that is coming. Some live in a bubble of their own pessimism and are committed to not being a part of that growth.

Working on Library mural in Oil City

Why Do Defeatists Exist?

Honestly? Some people just don’t like change. Others can’t wrap their mind around the future because they are stuck in the past. They’d rather complain about how things used to be than take part in how things could be. Maybe it’s fear. Maybe it’s laziness. Maybe they have a secret hobby of raining on people’s parades.

Whatever the reason, their negative energy is exhausting. And if we’re not careful, it can seep into our own enthusiasm like a slow leak in a bicycle tire.

The truth is, some people just got used to complaining and focusing on everything that is going wrong. They bitch, they moan, but they don’t become proactive in their own lives. They are waiting for someone to save them and until then, they just complain. I know this sounds harsh, but it’s true. I used to be one of those people, and the world I see now is vastly different than what it used to be.

The town isn’t going to evolve on its own. It takes forward thinkers and people who focus on opportunity, something that defeatists can’t do because they are stuck in the past.

Concert At Woods And River Coffee (AWESOME COFFEE SHOP) Oil City

So, What Do We Do About Them?

1. Ignore and Proceed

The best way to deal with a naysayer is to do the exact thing they claim won’t work. Prove them wrong by succeeding. Don’t expect all of them to come around and change their mind, many will chalk it up to luck and move on to the next thing they’ll complain about. However, some may have planted the seed of hope in their perspective which is huge.

2. Don’t Engage in the Negativity Olympics

Trying to argue with a defeatist is like arguing with a pigeon—it won’t change its mind, it’ll just ignore you and look for things to peck at… and eventually, it’ll just poop on your head. Let them stew in their cynicism while you build something awesome.

3. Remember Who Actually Represents Your Community

The loudest complainer does not represent the majority. The person who left that negative comment does not speak for our town. I’ve seen firsthand how supportive this town is of new businesses and ideas. So let’s not let one keyboard warrior speak for an entire community of dreamers, doers, and creators. It’s easy to complain from the sidelines while someone else is trying to make things happen, but in the end, those people are not in the arena and they are not actually committed to the growth of the town. They want someone else to fix the problem, all while not lifting a finger to actually do anything about it.

4. Keep Creating and Supporting Growth

Klee and I are not only working on a mural design for this brewery, but we’re also involved in the Makerspace that’s coming to the same building. These are projects that will contribute to the town’s growth and creativity. That’s where our focus is—not on the people who refuse to see progress even when it’s painted on a wall right in front of them.

Concert at Curb Market in Oil City

In Conclusion: Let’s Keep Moving Forward

The reality is, change is inevitable. It’s part of life. And instead of fearing it, resisting it, or yelling at it from behind a keyboard, why not embrace it? In my travels around the country, I’ve seen a lot of towns fall victim to devastating economic change, but I have also seen towns reinvent themselves and thrive. The towns that thrived did so because their community came together and embraced the future. The towns that fell apart saw no future for themselves. Oil City has already proven that it can evolve, and it will continue to do so—whether the defeatists like it or not. Luckily, we have way more dreamers.

So, to all the dreamers, risk-takers, and forward-thinkers out there: keep building, keep creating, and keep proving the naysayers wrong. And to the defeatists? Well, enjoy your time in the past. We’ll be over here, shaping the future.

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The Artist’s Eternal Battle Against “Helpful” Advice

There’s a universal truth about being an artist: at some point, you will find yourself sitting across from a random business “expert” who has absolutely no idea what to do with you.

This isn’t to say business programs are all bad—some programs out there are fantastic for small creative businesses. But every now and then, the system spits out someone whose entire entrepreneurial philosophy is deeply allergic to creativity.

Take, for instance, my brilliant artist friends—creative powerhouses who could probably design an entire alternate universe if left alone in a room with enough coffee and a glue gun. They dabble in a variety of art—puppet-building, drawing, painting, animation, candle-making, writing, and photography. Storytelling is at the heart of everything they do, whether through short stories, photographs, puppetry, or a collection of unique candle scents. Their mission is simple: create something fun and unique to share with the world while embracing a life of adventure, travel, and boundless creativity.

Early in my career, I was told I was wasting my time and needed to get a real job.

They recently got into a really good business program that would give them access to a business coach, which sounds great in theory. A chance to learn, expand, and take their art to the next level. Except… the coach was the human embodiment of a beige PowerPoint presentation on “synergy.”

My friends, fueled by artistic chaos and brilliance, met with this coach, eager to share their vision. The response?

“Puppets are dead.”

I repeat: puppets. are. dead.

Now, I don’t know about you, but last time I checked, puppets were very much alive, thriving, and probably plotting world domination (because have you met puppeteers? They have plans). The coach then proceeded to tell them that pretty much, everything they were doing was wrong—not “needing refinement,” not “requiring a strategic tweak,” just wrong.

Puppets are not dead.

I’m sure he didn’t mean to sound like a robot programmed to discourage anyone who doesn’t sell widgets at Walmart, but let’s be real—this is a tale as old as time.

Artists and the Box That Does Not Fit

The biggest battle for artists isn’t making art. It’s dealing with people who just don’t get it. Many people love art and artists. But some have no idea what actual art is. Those people like art only in safe, pre-approved formats:

  • Big blockbuster movies? Love it.
  • Art prints at Target? Aesthetic!
  • Pre-made sculptures made out of recycled toaster parts with an interactive light show? What is this sorcery?

Too many business “experts” view creative careers through the lens of traditional marketing strategies. They want to fit us into their pre-cut, shrink-wrapped boxes, and if we don’t fit? Well, obviously, it’s because we’re wrong.

It’s frustrating, it’s exhausting, and it’s deeply stupid. Because here’s the thing:

  • Art is not meant to fit in a box.
  • Art is not safe.
  • Art is the wild, untamed, chaotic force that dares to bring something new into the world.

That’s why artists struggle when they encounter people who insist on the “proven” way of doing things. Those “proven” methods only work for things that already exist. But we’re here to create what doesn’t exist yet.

If we followed the “rules,” we wouldn’t have surrealism, street art, or the entire concept of animation (which, fun fact, was also declared “a waste of time” once).

Persistence is the only thing that shuts people up.

The Real Problem: Judgment Disguised as Advice

Let’s be honest, the hardest part of being an artist isn’t the work—it’s the constant judgment. It’s the well-meaning “concern” from people who act like we’re throwing our lives away because we don’t have a LinkedIn profile filled with business achievements.

It’s the casual dismissals. The naysaying. The patronizing conversations where someone talks to you as if you’re a wayward toddler instead of a highly skilled creative professional.

And I get it. It stings. It’s frustrating. It makes you want to throw a puppet at someone’s head just to prove that, no, they are not dead.

But I want you to remember something very important: their opinions do not define your potential.

At the end of the day, no one has walked in your shoes. No one knows what you are capable of. No one can tell you what’s possible unless you let them.

If they don’t get it? That’s their loss. There are plenty of people who will.

Artists are the kinds of people who figure their own way of doing things.

Some Advice for When the World Doesn’t Get You

  1. Trust Your Vision – If your ideas excite you, they are worth pursuing. The greatest creative breakthroughs have always started as something that others dismissed as too weird, too different, or too impractical. Keep going.
  2. Consider the Source – If someone gives you advice, ask yourself: does this person have experience in what I do? Do they understand the creative world? If not, take their words with a grain of salt. Some people give advice because they want to help. Others do it because they can’t handle anything outside of their own limited perspective.
  3. Remember, Everything New is “Impossible” at First – The lightbulb was ridiculous before it worked. The internet was a joke before it changed the world. Animation was “silly” before it became a multi-billion dollar industry. Every great idea looks strange to the people who can’t see beyond what already exists.
  4. Surround Yourself with People Who Get It – There will always be voices telling you to stop, to do something safer, to follow the well-worn path. The key is to tune them out and listen instead to the people who understand your vision—the ones who push you forward instead of holding you back.
  5. Let Rejection Be Your Fuel – If someone tells you it can’t be done, take that as a personal challenge. The best revenge against doubters is to succeed in a way they never saw coming.
  6. Create Anyway – At the end of the day, art is about making something because it needs to exist. Whether the world is ready for it or not, whether the business experts approve or not, whether it fits in their box or not—create anyway. Because what you make might be the very thing that changes everything.

So go forth and keep making things that don’t fit in a box. The world needs you, even if some people are too narrow-minded to see it.

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Why Keep Going As An Artist

I had someone reach out recently and tell me they were thinking about quitting their art because it felt too hard. That kind of message always hits me right in the gut. The last thing the world needs right now is one less creative force of nature. If you’re feeling the weight of it all, remember this: the world is already tough enough—your art is the spark that makes it brighter, more human, more alive. Don’t let the struggle dim that spark. Keep going. The world needs what only you can create.

Let’s face it—being an artist is not for the faint of heart. While others might spend their days carefully avoiding rejection and criticism, we dive in headfirst, like daredevils without a parachute. Why? Because creating art isn’t just something we do—it’s who we are. It’s how we breathe, dream, and exist. And with that level of vulnerability comes a unique kind of chaos that only creative humans can understand.

Your Art, Served with a Side of Judgment

Every painting, song, sculpture, or doodle you share feels like offering a piece of your soul to the world on a platter. And sometimes the world responds with applause. Other times? A big ol’ “Meh.” It stings, but you learn to roll with it because creating isn’t about universal approval—it’s about expression. Still, it’s hard not to take it personally when someone shrugs at the thing you stayed up until 3 a.m. pouring your heart into. Rejection? Yeah, we eat that for breakfast.

The Art of Financial Juggling

Then there’s the financial tightrope walk. Let’s not sugarcoat it—money is a touchy subject in the art world. One month, you might sell a piece for enough to pay your rent and indulge in celebratory tacos. The next month, you’re scavenging for loose change and wondering if ramen noodles are still 25 cents a pack (spoiler: they’re not).

But here’s the crazy, magical thing: in these moments, you learn to create your own sense of security. You realize that your resourcefulness is a superpower. Yes, it’s terrifying to live in a world where nothing feels guaranteed, but it’s also empowering. You’re not waiting for a paycheck from someone else; you’re building a life on your own terms. And there’s a rebellious kind of pride in that.

The “Real Job” Conundrum

Ah, society. Let’s talk about the charming way it loves to belittle creativity. “Oh, you’re an artist? That’s nice, but what’s your real job?” If I had a dollar for every time someone asked me that, I’d be lounging in a hammock on my private island right now.

Why is it so hard for people to see the value in what we do? Maybe it’s because art doesn’t always come with a dollar sign attached. Maybe it’s because the world’s definition of success is built around 9-to-5 jobs, retirement plans, and measurable productivity. But guess what? The world needs art. It needs beauty, inspiration, and the courage to dream bigger. And that’s what we bring to the table—no corporate ladder required.

Why We Keep Going

So, why do we do it? Why do we keep creating in a world that’s sometimes indifferent, often dismissive, and occasionally brutal? Because we have to. Because art is our way of processing life, connecting with others, and leaving a mark on the world.

It’s not easy, but it’s worth it. Every “Meh,” every financial freakout, and every “real job” comment just adds fuel to the fire. We create because it’s who we are, and that’s something no amount of criticism, ramen dinners, or societal doubt can take away.

So here’s to us—the brave, slightly insane souls who dare to make art in a world that doesn’t always understand it. Keep going, keep creating, and remember: your work matters, even on the days when it feels like no one is watching.

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Finding Joy in the Everyday: How to See Life Like an Artist

You know those days when everything feels like a boring routine, and life’s about as exciting as waiting for toast to pop up? We’ve all been there. But what if I told you that joy is just hanging out in the small moments, waiting for you to notice it? As an artist, I’ve learned that life is a masterpiece made up of tiny details—brushstrokes, if you will. And with a few tips, you can start seeing (and enjoying) these everyday moments like a masterpiece, too.

Step 1: Look at the Mundane Like It’s a Van Gogh Painting

Life’s everyday details—the morning light, the sound of coffee brewing, that squirrel doing acrobatics outside—these might seem small, but they’re pure gold if you know how to look at them. Artists call this “seeing beauty in the ordinary.” You don’t have to paint the sunset to appreciate it—sometimes it’s enough to just sit there and take it in.

So, next time you’re on autopilot, pause and take a look around. Pretend you’re in an art gallery (yes, even if you’re just staring at your kitchen counter) and really look at things. The colors, the textures, the little patterns in the most unexpected places. Suddenly, the world becomes a lot more interesting. And just like that, you’re finding joy in the everyday.

The View From Our Front Porch During An Aurora Borealis

Step 2: Turn Routine Tasks into a ‘Creative Ritual’

Let’s face it: doing the dishes or folding laundry isn’t exactly thrilling. But what if you could turn these tasks into something special, like a “creative ritual?” Make it your moment—turn on some music, dance around, or imagine yourself in a slow-motion cleaning montage. You’re not just “doing chores”, you’re the star of your very own cinematic cleaning scene.

This little shift in mindset makes even the most basic tasks feel like part of a grand production. And before you know it, you’re smiling at your own ridiculousness. Who knew dishes could be a creative act? (Maybe don’t let your friends know you’re pretending to be in a music video—they might look at you funny. Or maybe do.)

Step 3: Add Some “Play” into Your Day

Artists know that creating isn’t just work; it’s play. They mess around with new techniques, experiment with crazy ideas, and sometimes make a total mess just for the heck of it. So, why not add a little playfulness to your day, even if you’re not holding a paintbrush?

Try something new and random, just for fun—learn a magic trick, make up a silly song, or doodle a stick figure on a sticky note. (Bonus points if your stick figure has a funny face.) Adding even a tiny bit of playfulness to your day can open up a world of joy. And hey, if it’s ridiculous, you’re doing it right!

Step 4: Appreciate Life’s Little “Happy Accidents”

Ever had a plan that went horribly wrong, but somehow ended up great anyway? In art, we call these “happy accidents.” Think of it as life throwing you an unexpected curveball that somehow turns into a win. Embrace these moments—they’re the universe’s way of keeping things interesting.

Spilled your coffee? Maybe it’s a sign you needed a break anyway. Forgot your umbrella and got caught in the rain? Hey, impromptu shower! Start seeing life’s little surprises as “happy accidents,” and they’ll go from annoyances to hilarious stories. You’ll realize the little detours can bring you the best memories.

Step 5: Find “Mini Masterpieces” in Each Day

Ever notice how artists are always stopping to admire something random? A cool shadow, the way leaves look in the sunlight, even a nicely arranged fruit bowl. They know that beauty isn’t just in big, dramatic moments—it’s in the small stuff, too. So go ahead, hunt for some “mini masterpieces” in your day.

Notice the bubbles in your coffee, the way the rain hits the window, or how the light looks just before sunset. These little details are like free art exhibits scattered throughout your day. When you start to see them, the world suddenly feels a whole lot richer—and that’s what we’re after, right?

Step 6: Celebrate Tiny Wins Like You’re at an Art Show

Every artist knows the feeling of finishing a tiny piece of art and thinking, “Yes! I did it!” You can do the same with your daily wins. Did you make it through a long workday? Applause! Finished a task that’s been on your list forever? Standing ovation! Your tiny achievements deserve to be celebrated, even if they’re as simple as getting out of bed on a rough morning.

In art, we’re constantly celebrating little milestones, and it adds a bit of magic to the process. Bring that mindset to your life, and soon you’ll find that even the smallest steps feel like a triumph. And hey, it gives you an excuse to treat yourself (not that you ever need one!).

Step 7: Make Life’s Canvas Yours (And Don’t Be Afraid to Go a Little Wild)

At the end of the day, remember that you’re the artist of your own life. So if you want to add a splash of color, a random adventure, or even a completely new “style,” go for it! Just like a painter gets to decide what goes on their canvas, you get to decide what goes into each day.

So if you’re itching to try something different—wear a bright color, take a new route home, try a wild flavor of ice cream—do it. It doesn’t matter if it “fits the plan.” Life is your blank canvas, and the joy comes from mixing things up and surprising yourself along the way. Who knows what you’ll discover about yourself?

Finding Joy, One Little Brushstroke at a Time

Life can be pretty amazing if you learn to see it like an artist—by appreciating the small details, adding a little playfulness, and celebrating every tiny win. The masterpiece of your life is made up of these little moments, and they’re waiting for you to notice them. So go on, grab your metaphorical paintbrush (or actual paintbrush if you’re feeling fancy) and start looking at life a little differently.

Everyday joy isn’t in the big stuff. it’s in the tiny brushstrokes of each day. The more you appreciate them, the brighter and more colorful your life becomes. So, go out there, embrace the everyday magic, and start creating a life full of little masterpieces!

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Rolling into 2024: Unleashing Awesomeness and Embracing Change!

As we kick off 2024 and wave a cheerful goodbye to 2023, I can’t help but take a moment to reflect on the wild ride that was last year. Boy, did we go on an adventure! We showcased our artwork at a virtual event, rocked a book fair, dropped some groovy music videos, laid down fresh tunes, hosted an epic workshop for artists, and even graced the stage with some live speaking events. Not too shabby, right?

But, hold up! Amidst all the glitter and glam, there’s a little something missing from that list—new artwork. Yup, I confess. Although I managed to sneak into the studio a few times, it wasn’t the art extravaganza I’d dreamed of for 2023. And let’s face it, having that studio time is like a therapeutic dance for the soul. I am missing it. I typically get in the studio about 4 to 5 days a week, however last year I was lucky to get in there for a day.

As an artist, I’ve come to realize that the studio is more than just a room with art supplies; it’s my haven, my escape. It’s where I unload the quirks of life and let my creativity run wild. Last year, however, the art vibes were a bit off, and I found myself craving more studio time than I got.

So, what’s the deal, you ask? I got in over my head with a website that turned into a glitchy rollercoaster, demanding my attention like a clingy friend. I found myself playing firefighter, putting out technical fires left and right. And guess what? The art studio, my personal paradise, got neglected. This also affected us financially since we do art for a living. No art, no making a living. More importantly, I was making things more difficult for myself by holding onto the idea that I NEEDED to do this.

So, we let the glitchy time-consuming project go.

Now, why am I laying it all out for you? Because, I want you to join me on the reflection train. Take a look at your 2023 – the highs, the lows, the sideways somersaults. Reevaluate, recalibrate, and make sure it feels good. Focus on the day-to-day dance of joy.

As creatives, we’re like wizards in our art studios, casting spells with every stroke of the brush. But if there’s anything messing with that magic, it’s time for a shake-up. Make getting into the studio a priority, not an afterthought.

If creating art isn’t your jam, no worries! Find that thing that sparks your excitement and lose yourself in it. Maybe it’s hitting the trails for a hike, diving into a gripping novel, or even mastering the art of staring at the clouds. The possibilities are endless.

Whether you’re into art creating, gardening, cooking up a storm in the kitchen, strumming a guitar, or even geeking out over the latest video games, the self-love things you do are the secret sauce that adds flavor to your life. In the hustle and bustle of everyday chaos, it’s easy to push these joys to the sidelines. But guess what? It’s high time to reclaim that precious time for the things that make your heart sing.

So, here’s your golden ticket to joy: make a date with your special things. Seriously, schedule it in your calendar, set a reminder, and treat it like a VIP appointment with your happiness. Just as I’m prioritizing my studio time, you should carve out those moments for your passions.

Whether you’re nurturing a green thumb in the garden or experimenting with a new recipe in the kitchen, these activities are your personal playgrounds of joy. Remember, life is not just about the hustle; it’s about the dance, the laughter, and the pure enjoyment of doing what you love.

Last year, I got stuck in a loop, surrounded by projects I couldn’t touch because I was stuck behind a computer. Why? Fear of change, the dread of letting people down. I’ve shouted the mantra “persist through the suck,” but here’s the kicker—it doesn’t mean sticking with something you don’t want to do.

Motivations can be tricky devils, pushing us to greatness or chaining us to something that sucks the joy out of life. So, let’s be rogues! Rip that metaphorical band-aid off, reevaluate what’s holding you back, and dance into the year with joy in your heart.

We love the Rogues!

I am happy to say that this year our Rogue membership and our awesome Rogues have moved back to Patreon. This has already given me more time to create and we are only two weeks into the new year. If you have been thinking about supporting the content that we put out there for artists, that will be the place to do it. Plus, you get all kinds of cool stuff weekly from us that is exclusive to our members. Join us on Patreon!

As for now, I am excited about some new art projects that are currently in the works. I have a series of sculptures, new paintings, and a new book that will be releasing in the next few months. I can;t wait to share them with you! Expect a tidal wave of awesomeness this year! Klee and I are buzzing with excitement to run our revamped Patreon, juggle some mind-blowing new art, new songs, and finally unleash those projects that have been chilling on the back burner. Get ready for a rollercoaster of creativity and joy!

Stay awesome, rockstars! See you soon with some fresh, mind-blowing awesomeness!

New Book Coming Soon!
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Forget The New Year’s Resolutions

January is here and it is the beginning of 2020. This is the time of year where fad diets and hard to keep promises become a way of eventually disappointing yourself. We start to think of New Year’s resolutions and how this year is going to be different. Instead of buying a thighmaster and adding more stress to your life by adding 10 impossible goals that you don’t really want, start off with small things you can do right now. These ten lifestyle changes may be small, but they have changed my life.

Rafi Perez Painting Explorer

Create A New Tradition Of Gratitude. Create a spot in your home where you can sit every morning and spend 5 minutes in appreciation for yourself and whatever you love in life. Make it your gratitude retreat nook. This morning ritual will cause your brain to be on the lookout for the beauty of nature, friendship, love, laughter and anything else in life that you enjoy. Many of us are not used to taking any amount of time during the day to feel good on purpose… Just five minutes a day will change your world.

Free Yourself Of Clutter. Papers, old mail, instruction manuals, and receipts can clutter all the catch-all spots around your house. Take just 10 minutes a day to work on straightening up your paperwork, and throw away things that you don’t need. You’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish and how clutter-free your mind will become. Our physical space is the perfect reflection of what is happening in our mind; if your space is cluttered in any way, your head will be cluttered as well. 

3 Little Birds Art By Rafi

At Least One I Love You A Week. Tell one person each week that you love them. It’s easy to forget to tell people that we care about them. When we forget to express love we can get preoccupied with other things and that will become our habit. Reignite the habit of love. 

Get A Plant. Not only will it bring you better air quality, but nurturing a plant will do things for you emotionally that are phenomenal. Oh yeah, make sure you talk to your plant often. They love that.

Smile. Make it a point to smile and enjoy this year by enjoying each day fully. Right now you are reading this. As you read this, what do your surroundings sound like? Look up, what do you see? How does the air feel on your skin? What is the taste in your mouth? Is there a subtle static in the air? Does it feel thick, or light and airy?

That’s called stopping, now smell the roses, by giving this moment a big smile. If you have a hard time smiling, just remember that we think you are awesome.

-Rafi

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Sometimes Life Happens And It Sucks

I have been told on occasion that I’m so lucky to be able to live the life I live. Someone sees a snapshot of my life as an artist on social media and thinks that is the whole picture. As if everything is easy and just sunshine and rainbows float around my life. The truth isn’t as glamorous.

I try to be as honest and authentic as I can be with any content that I share with the world, but even then you are only getting part of the picture. In a world saturated with smiley faces and picture-perfect snapshots of everyone else’s life, it is easy to think that you are alone in feeling unhappy.

We all have our moments. When you see a picture of me creating a work of art, you don’t see all the insecurity, doubt, and worries I may have at the moment. When you see a picture of me smiling, there is no way to know if I have lingering doubts in the background of my mind.

Back to back questions can fill my head like “Am I going to have enough money to pay the bills this month? Do my children hate me? Can I pull off this next art project even though I feel like an impostor? Am I doing enough to promote myself? Why do I feel so invisible? Why am I so fat? YouTube is probably slowing down because I’m old and ugly? Aaaaaarg!”

Sometimes Life Happens And It Sucks

You know… I woke up this morning feeling unmotivated and defeated. The book is eating up a huge portion of my life right now, and my days are spent sitting on the couch typing. I can easily get overwhelmed trying to balance writing a book and running my entire art and media business. Throw a small wrench into the mix like a water pipe bursting over your bed and all of a sudden it seems like the end of the world.

No matter how wonderful someone’s life may seem, we all have insecurities creep up, we all feel overwhelmed sometimes, and we all have things we are afraid of.

This morning, I feel like I’m a failure at my art business, YouTube, Patreon, and life. I hardly make any income from all the work I put into a lot of online platforms and I have to wonder if I’m wasting my time. Am I wasting my time writing this blog? I feel like I’m letting everyone who believes in me down and everything I create is crap.

From art to podcast, to videos, to life choices, to writing, to everything I do, it all feels like crap. I feel like everything I try to do is harder than it should be, and I feel isolated and alone.

Listen, I’m not sharing this with you because I think my life sucks or anything. I also don’t want you to think I’m complaining, because I’m not. I just want you to know that you are not alone, we ALL have days where our thoughts are less than satisfied with our lives. We all have those moments where we look in the mirror and don’t like what we see. No matter how wonderful you think someone’s life is, I guarantee that daily, they may have something they are struggling with.

I think the reason I keep going with everything is a stubborn determination to smile. I don’t quit. I know that at some point during the day, I’m going to discourage myself. I know that there is a huge possibility that I’m going to call myself names. I am probably going to worry about the future and make myself feel bad about the choices I’ve made.

I know that a part of me will do whatever it takes to keep me comfortable, small, and hopeless. That is a safe place to be because you don’t take risks from that place. You don’t put yourself and your ideas out there if you feel that you don’t matter. My brain will do whatever it can to protect me from rejection or failure… even go as far as saying some really hurtful stuff in my own head and heart.

Insecurities are complex and hard to describe. We all have them, and they are all different and multifaceted.

I just don’t buy into mine as often as I used to, and when I do… I remind myself that when you are about to make a breakthrough, that’s when the negative voices in your head get louder and more desperate. I also don’t give myself any labels that are damaging. You may be feeling depressed, but you are not depressed, it is a momentary feeling.

We all go through this, and we all deal with it in our own way. I channel my emotions into all my creations and find a way to feel empowered by the experience.

Some commiserate with each other, some find a way to smile despite all the setbacks and some rise above the crap. Some choose to believe in themselves and focus on their life, and others compare their lives to what they assume others are experiencing.

It is after the experience, where I have faced the worst of it that you may see a picture of me smiling on social media. Shit happens, life can feel like it sucks, and times can be tough, but you get to determine how you respond to all of it. If your day sucks, then so be it, but don’t isolate yourself by thinking you’re the only one.

I share this with you because I think you’ve got this. I’ve got this… we can be heroes of our own story. We can all be champions of our own life… Just gotta choose to be awesome and roll with the punches.

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Just Do That Thing, But Have Fun

There are six things that I look at whenever I find myself floundering in my career or in life. These are six things that I take a close look at when I think to myself “I should do that thing” and another side of me says “but…”

Most people think that I am full steam ahead, have endless amounts of energy and am able to somehow warp time and space. They say things like “Rafi is the hardest working artist I know.” If I’m not careful, this kind of vision of myself can become a badge of honor and I would become the hardest working artist out there, which honestly would be a total drag.

I don’t want to be the hardest working anything. In fact, I don’t want to work hard, I don’t want anything I do to be hard work in the traditional sense, I want it to be fun.

I think one of the reasons things seem like hard work for most people is because, for the most part, we are not being chased by lions anymore. Stress, anxiety, and a plethora of other emotions are tied up in this little thing we do when we go into fight or flight. It is a natural response to danger. The problem is that we go into this danger response when we feel a looming deadline, or there is a bill that is due at the end of the month.

For a lot of people out there, the simple act of speaking in front of a group is paralyzing. It can feel like a life or death situation. People will say things like “If I say the wrong things, I’ll be so embarrassed I’ll die.”

Imagine starting an art career, or any other harebrained idea that has been nagging at you. How much of that is put to a standstill because of this crazy response that is designed to keep you from becoming supper for a lion? Here are six things I tell myself to motivate myself to do that thing, but also remember to have fun.

  1. My Voice: I have one, and the only way I will find it is by doing this thing. I might be scared, but it’s not about making a good impression, it’s about speaking my truth. It’s just my opinion, everyone has one.
  2. The Fear: The purpose of FEAR is to stop you. Sometimes that’s a good thing, like when you are in immediate danger. But, if you are holding yourself back from doing something you know you love, the only way to get to the truth is to face that fear as many times as you have to. Make it an exciting game. Btw if the thing you want to do is put your head in a shark’s mouth then I would say actual life-risking fears require more prep and research… don’t just find a shark.
  3. Get Started: Starting is where most people don’t even get to. There are millions of talented and creative geniuses walking around on the planet, but they just don’t start. You don’t have to dive in, but at least take a baby step daily.
  4. Momentum: Once you start, keep going. The more you do it the more momentum you gain and eventually, you become an unstoppable force.
  5. Habits: Understand that everything you do and every reaction is creating a habit, so create habits on purpose.
  6. Give Yourself A Purpose: This could be anything. To make beautiful art that speaks to people, to voice my opinion, to write music that will change a generation, or just to paint pretty pictures… it doesn’t matter what other people think of your purpose, just that it matters to you.

I guess the most important take away for me is that life is a short occurrence, so you might as well do the things you want to do… and have fun.

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When Someone Tells You To Grow Up

Today you’ll join me in my brain… There is something on my mind and you’ll be following me through the twists and turns of my thought process when something pisses me off.

If you’ve been following along in our adventure, you know that we had the whole Etsy conundrum and decided to move on to greener pastures. Of course we ranted about it on YouTube and pointed out the reasons for the move and some of the shady stuff that Etsy was doing.

We received thousands of responses to the videos, and although 99.5% of people that watched and commented were constructive in sharing their experiences with and thoughts about the Etsy situation (some in agreement, some not), there were some comments that caused me to scratch my head and fume a bit.

One that seemed to reoccur a couple times was “Oh grow up! and quit complaining. Just roll in your shipping and raise your price.”

These particular comments caused me to stop and think about whether or not we were simply complaining about the situation. Well, only after I thought “BLEEP BLEEP BLEEP CENSOR BLEEP BLEEP!!!”

In the videos, we lay out the problem we have with the new Etsy free shipping push, point out a few of the ways this would be a problem for the small business owner, and then talk about a plan of action moving forward.

I’ll be honest: when I’m around someone who is chronically whining, complaining, bitching and moaning it’s as difficult for me as it is for anyone else. The energy of those dynamics is one of powerlessness.

And I don’t do powerlessness.

The simple fact is that people respond to emotions in an interesting way, based on how they view the world… based on the experiences they’ve had and how they view themselves. They will lump themselves up into a group and do the same with other people. For example, we were protesting Etsy’s new policy, and thus we were grouped into their perception of what a protester is. Someone who is whining and complaining about stuff and making a ruckus, that is the point of view of someone who would never protest. People divide themselves into groups because it’s safe to feel like you are part of a group… left, right, this movement, that movement, this group, that group, religious, non-religious. My problem with this is that if you have an “us”, then there is a “them”, and that’s where things get stupid and dangerous. Who knows where artists fit in this spectrum, but I’m sure there are several people who assume we are just irresponsible and childish… and some are, because they are human, not because they are artists.

I think it’s interesting that the term “grow up” is associated to, and often used as a verbal fly swatter against speaking up for yourself. I know that when I was a kid, if I didn’t agree with something, or was against doing something, an adult would get mad and say “Oh grow up.”

So, for some people it must mean that being a grown up means staying quiet when you disagree and just taking it. Because if you speak your mind about something, then you are being childish.

In our example, Etsy decides to use gentle coercion to get us to change our policies which would require us to be dishonest with our collectors. It also will cause us to be treading illegal waters. If we don’t do it, we will be gently penalized by having our products show up at the bottom of the pile.

So in order to be “grown up” I shut my mouth, change the policies of my business, and deceive my customers. I basically just take it up the keester. I guess at that point I would have to be ok with Etsy telling me how to run my business, lie to people, and just not stand up for what I believe in. That does sound very adult like. I would have to make all kinds of excuses to justify my actions, allow myself to continue feeling helpless while telling myself that I was in control and ultimately made the sacrifices one makes when they are a grown up.

I’ll be honest… That sounds so stupid. It’s ridiculous that people live that way… but they do. I lived that way for most of my life. I didn’t make waves, didn’t rock the boat, I was a good boy, so quiet and respectful, and so spineless. I also, would get mad and tell people to grow up when they just didn’t fall inline, because I was so twisted inside by the justifications and fear I had of causing a ruckus that I didn’t even know what to believe any more.

I’m not that way now. In my mind, the question of whether I’m a grown up or not is a crock of shite. We are all a bunch of kids pretending to be grown ups, making serious faces when we think we are supposed to be serious, and pretending to know what we are talking about. We don’t have any absolute answers to “life, the universe and everything”, we are all just figuring it out as we go.

So, for me… Speaking what I believe, yet being open and flexible is the responsible thing to do. Moving away from an e-commerce platform that is trying to tell me how to run my business, and ultimately has control over how well my business performs is probably the most grown up thing I can do… whatever that means.

I’ll leave you with this thought. Perhaps speaking up for the things I believe in is annoying to some people. It’s really all too easy to turn a blind eye to things that don’t sit well with us, and it can even seem more comfortable. When someone speaks up about an issue and we have to look at things we otherwise don’t want to, it can be a disruption of the status quo and that’s inevitably going to upset some percentage of people. And maybe it’s even true, as one comment suggested, “You just don’t understand how big business works.” Well, maybe so… but I do have a pretty good understanding of small business and the values that keep it going… and I sure as heck have a good understanding of my business, and how I choose to run it. If that’s childish and naive, then so be it.