Tag: rafi perez

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Shifting Gears: From Comparison to Connection in Art and Life

I’ve spent some time soul-searching, trying to pin down what exactly led me down a path of burnout and stress. Today, I’m excited to share some revelations with you about mindset shifts that have begun to transform not just my art, but my life.

Watch my latest video on the subject:

The Trap of the Comparison Game

Here’s the truth: the art career is more than a job—it’s a lifestyle. And in this lifestyle, it’s dangerously easy to fall into the comparison trap. You see someone new on the scene, exploding with success, and it’s natural to wonder, “What am I doing wrong?” I’ve been there, scrolling through social media, inadvertently playing this comparison game, measuring my worth against others’ highlights.

But here’s the thing—comparison steals your joy and your unique creative spark. It took me a while, but I realized that comparing was leading nowhere but to more self-doubt.

Turning Competition into Connection

Then came the competitive spirit, not the healthy kind, but a secretive, isolating one. It was me against them, even if ‘them’ were authors I admired or artists I aspired to connect with. But competition, in this sense, only served to separate me further from the community I cherished.

So, I asked myself, “What’s the opposite of competing?” The answer was clear: connecting. As artists, we’re in this together, crafting unique pieces that speak our truths. Realizing this, I began to shift from a mindset of isolation to one of collaboration and support.

Criticism to Commendation

Criticism followed competition. At first, it was directed at others, then at myself. This was perhaps the hardest to overcome. It’s easy to criticize when you feel threatened or insecure. Yet, I knew deep down that this wasn’t who I wanted to be.

Replacing criticism with commendation changed everything. Celebrating others’ successes, understanding the hard work they put in, and genuinely feeling happy for them helped me realize that their wins do not diminish my own. This shift not only improved my relationships but also my self-esteem.

From Complaining to Cherishing

Lastly, the complaining. Oh, the endless cycle of focusing on what’s wrong, what’s lacking, what should have been. It was exhausting. Instead, I’ve started to cherish. Cherishing the good in my life, the successes, big or small, and the simple fact that I get to create every day has brought me so much more peace and connectivity.

Download The Poster:

Connect-Commend-CherishDownload

Order A Signed Poster:

How To Find Happiness Poster Signed By Rafi And Klee 9X13

We spend so much time chasing things in life that we forget how simple it is to connect. These are my reminders. You can  download this for free on our website or order a signed poster, print, and goodies from us in the mail.

$10.00
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Embracing a New Mindset

So here we are, shifting from comparing to comprehending, from competing to connecting, from criticizing to commending, and from complaining to cherishing. It might sound all “touchy-feely,” but ask yourself—how do you want to live your life? Entangled in jealousy and discontent, or embracing a world where you can truly appreciate and enjoy your journey as a creative human?

It’s a great question to ask yourself.

Have an amazing week, keep creating, and remember—you’re absolutely amazing just as you are.

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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

Casey Corritore

Workshop Host

Casey Corritore (she/her) joined Erie Arts & Culture as the Program Officer of Capacity Building in April 2022. In this role, Casey manages the agency’s publicly and privately funded grant programs, annual artist fellowship award, and leads initiatives centered around artist professional development. Outside the office, Casey enjoys improvising on the cello, volunteering for art and music festivals, and spending time with her two fat cats

Rafi Perez

Workshop Host

Rafi Perez is an award-winning multi-faceted artist, communicator, author, and creative thought trailblazer renowned for his vibrant artworks and dynamic ideas on creativity and life. Beyond the canvas, Perez is a prolific communicator, sharing his insights and experiences through various mediums, including his YouTube channel “Rafi Was Here” and the Rogue Artist Guide series of books, which offer invaluable guidance to aspiring artists.

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.

Register on Eventbrite

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/

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A Small Act that Fills the World with Love

This morning, amidst the ordinary rush to get my daily chores done, I found myself in a line at the grocery store, a place as mundane as any could be. Yet, it was here, between the aisles of cereals and canned goods, that I stumbled upon a reminder of the profound beauty embedded in our daily interactions.

As I stood there, meticulously arranging my groceries on the conveyor belt, I moved them forward and placed the small partition behind my items, an act as automatic as breathing. But today, this simple gesture caught the attention of the person standing behind me. A woman, her eyes meeting mine, expressed her gratitude with a gentle, “Thank you so much, sweetheart.” Such a small exchange, and yet, her words resonated with me deeply, stirring reflections on the power of kindness and the art of giving.

I love leaving small loving reminders around town for people to find.

It struck me then, how consumed we can become in a world that often emphasizes the act of receiving. We find ourselves in a relentless pursuit of what we can gain, overlooking the essence of what it truly means to give. And yet, here was a moment, as fleeting as it was, that illustrated the immense impact of giving, even in its simplest form. It served as a poignant reminder that love, in any shape or form, holds the power to transform the mundane into something truly meaningful.

Throughout my career, alongside Klee, we have endeavored to give as much as we possibly can. It’s a principle we’ve held dear, even though, especially in times of need, it’s easy to lose sight of this truth. The world can make you forget that at its core, it’s not about what you receive, but what you give that truly enriches your life and the lives of those around you.

So, on this day, moved by a moment of unexpected gratitude and reminded of the fundamental joy of giving, I wish to extend something beautiful to you. In the spirit of sharing love and light, I’m sharing a song we wrote some time ago. It’s more than just a melody to us; it’s a reflection of the peace and happiness we wish to spread in the world. My hope is that it will bring a smile to your face, warmth to your heart, and a reminder of the peace that comes not from receiving, but from the simple, profound act of giving. Listen to the song and I hope it brings a smile to your lips:

To everyone reading this, I adore you. Remember, amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, never underestimate the power of a small gesture, a kind word, or a moment of connection. These are the threads that weave the fabric of our humanity, binding us together in the tapestry of love and kindness.

Let’s continue to give, in all ways, always.

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Introducing “Dear Artists – Letters From A Rogue” – Pre-order Now!

I am absolutely thrilled to announce the upcoming release of my newest book, “Dear Artists – Letters From A Rogue,” and I invite you to join me on this exhilarating journey of creative exploration and self-discovery.

This book is exclusively designed to inspire you and help push through some of the obstacles you may be facing as a creative. It is now available for pre-ordering your special signed copy of “Dear Artists” along with a unique Rogue Artist Bookmark.

This book is more than just advice—it’s a rallying cry for every artist to reclaim their power, defy the status quo, and unleash their creativity with unbridled passion. Whether you’re grappling with creative blocks or seeking validation in a crowded art world, “Dear Artists” offers solace, guidance, and a reminder that you are not alone in your journey.

Special Pre-Order Editions:

These editions are extra special as they are part of a special print run personally picked up by me in Buffalo, New York. Each book will be signed, and if you desire, I would be delighted to include a personalized message – just let us know when you place your order. Your copy of the book will ship out after the end of May. The book will be released to the public on Amazon Books And Other Outlets in July 2024.

PRE-ORDER NOW

Click Here To Pre-Order Your Special Edition Signed Book

Here are the details of this exciting release:

BOOK DETAILS:

  • Series: The Rogue Artist Series (Book 4)
  • Title: Dear Artists, Letters From A Rogue
  • Paperback: 269 – 300 pages, Cover Color, Interior B/W
  • Publisher: Rafi & Klee Studios (May 31st, 2024)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: N/A
  • ISBN-13: N/A
  • Product Dimensions: 6 x 0.6 x 9 inches
  • Shipping Weight: 1 pound

Description Of My Book In Progress: “Dear Artists – Letters From A Rogue” is a heartfelt collection of letters born from my personal experiences and interactions with artists like yourself. Over the years, I’ve penned hundreds of responses to artists seeking guidance, support, and motivation. Now, these letters are compiled into a single volume bursting with wisdom, encouragement, and practical advice for navigating the creative journey.

Current Chapter List:

  • Introduction: A Letter from an Old Rogue Artist
  • Chapter 1: Embrace Your Unique Voice
  • Chapter 2: Defying the Critics
  • Chapter 3: Facing Fear And Doubt
  • Chapter 4: The Power of Persistence
  • Chapter 5: Navigating the Art Market
  • Chapter 6: Finding Your Tribe
  • Chapter 7: Overcoming Creative Blocks
  • Chapter 8: You Are Growing Into A Badass
  • Chapter 9: Balancing It All
  • Chapter 10: The Legacy of Your Art
  • Chapter 11: Dear Artist, Keep Going
  • Chapter 12: So, What Now?
PRE-ORDER NOW

Click Here To Pre-Order Your Special Edition Signed Book

Who Am I?

I’m Rafi Perez, a rogue artist on a mission to redefine the boundaries of creativity and inspire fellow artists to embrace their true selves. My journey in the art world has been unconventional, marked by a rebellious spirit and an unwavering commitment to authenticity.

The Rogue Artist Series serves as a manifesto for those who refuse to conform to the norms of the art establishment. And now, with “Dear Artists,” I aim to ignite the spark of creativity within each reader, encouraging them to break free from constraints and celebrate the beauty of their unique artistic expression.

Join me in the pages of “Dear Artists” as we embark on a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and unbridled creativity. Together, let’s redefine what it means to be an artist and embrace the joy of creating with authenticity and courage.

Pre-order your signed copy today and be among the first to experience the transformative power of “Dear Artists – Letters From A Rogue.”

You Rock And I Adore You,

-Rafi Perez

IF YOU ARE CURIOUS ABOUT MY OTHER BOOKS CLICK HERE!

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Unleashing Your Artistic Superpower

The image above was taken in 2010 at the beginning of our artistic journey. This picture is the first step in us embracing our superpower. It’s a superpower that all creatives have inside. It is being you, with all your quirks and all your weirdness.

Today, we’re about to embark on a journey into the heart of what makes you not just an artist but a superhero in your own right – your uniqueness.

I’ve been deep in contemplation lately, navigating the twists and turns of my own creative path. Moving, life’s chaos, and a hiatus from art had left me grappling to rediscover my theme, my voice. And what stood in my way like a formidable adversary? Conformity.

Let’s call it what it is – conformity is the kryptonite for artists. It threatens to make us invisible, to drown out the very essence of what makes us special. But fear not, for embracing our uniqueness is the ultimate superpower.

In my artistic journey, I’ve found solace in embracing the quirks that make me, well, me. My artwork is fluid, a reflection of my rebellion against the meticulous finishing touches. There’s a rawness to it that my insecure side once questioned, but deep down, I adore it just the way it is.

Now, imagine your uniqueness as a melody within you, a rhythm that sets you apart from the symphony of the world. Every artist carries this unique tune, a blend of experiences, emotions, and perspectives – your artistic DNA. No two tunes are the same.

Conformity may seem like the easy path, but it’s a road that leads to invisibility. Picture it as trying to fit into a preset song, drowning out your individual tune. It might make you blend in, but it makes you vanish from the spotlight, turning you into background noise instead of the star of your own show.

Why is being unique a superpower? Because the world is noisy. Everyone is doing their thing, following trends. Standing out is not just crucial; it’s your signature move. Your uniqueness is the key to creating art that resonates profoundly because it comes from within you.

Now, let’s tackle the fear – the fear of being different, the fear of standing out. But here’s the truth: your uniqueness is not a weakness; it’s a strength. It’s your authenticity, your realness, and there’s nothing more powerful than authentic art. Stand in your confidence, surround yourself with those who celebrate diversity – fellow rogues who understand the value of being unique.

Experiment, explore, create your own path. Your uniqueness is your secret sauce, making your art memorable and incomparable. The road may be tough initially, with people struggling to understand your work. But keep putting it out there, for in time, they will compare it to your own unique journey.

Conformity is the silent killer of creativity. It stifles growth and hinders your own evolution. Embrace your uniqueness; it’s the antidote to invisibility. Don’t jump through hoops to fit in; stand out, for that is who you are.

So, how can you embrace your unique superpower? Start by accepting being different as a strength, not a weakness. Your uniqueness makes you authentic, real, and powerful.

Don’t be afraid to experiment, explore, and create your own way of doing things. The more you embrace your uniqueness, the louder it will resonate in the world. Your artwork will become more popular as you gain confidence in your own way of creating.

At the end of the day, remember this – your unique melody, the voice inside you, is your superpower. Don’t struggle to fit in, for your conformity might make you blend in, but it’s your uniqueness that will make you stand out. Stay unique, stay awesome, keep creating, keep dancing to your own beat, and embrace the rhythm that is your uniqueness.

I adore each and every one of you, Until next week, adios!

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Desperation Gets You Nowhere

I have answered a lot of letters over the years from artists who want to know my opinion on living the artist’s life. I am compiling those letters into a book that I am very excited about. Here is one of those letters. This is a response to someone who wanted to give up because they did a couple of art shows and didn’t sell anything. 

Dear Artist,

Greetings and creative vibes to you today! After reading your letter, I found myself immersed in a thought that I believe is crucial for us as artists, creators, and individuals on this incredible journey. It’s all about how we convey our message to the world – whether it’s through our art, at shows, on social media, or any other form of expression.

I know people out there may say to paste on a smile and keep presenting yourself to the world that way. That people will follow people that are confident and showing off the highlight reel is important. That is a terrible way to live and it is quite isolating. Instead, let’s focus on something deeper… something real – the way we communicate. Whether you’re selling at a show or creating content, your true feelings are bound to seep into your message. It’s like the lines between the lines, subtly revealing your emotions, no matter how hard you try to mask them.

You’re at a show, desperately trying to sell your creations. Feeling ignored and at wit’s end, you try to interact with people in a way that will bring a sale. Despite your friendly facade, that desperation is what people will sense. It puts them off. What is churning underneath will always come to the surface no matter how hard you try to hide it.

In that moment you feel victimized by the unfairness of it all. The desperation takes over. You NEED to sell something, you NEED to be validated, and You NEED to prove that you are good enough. However, in every situation, you have a choice – to feel like a victim or to feel empowered. You can either let circumstances and outcomes control you, or you can embrace your power, make decisions, and shape your own narrative.

When you feel stuck, when those clouds of doubt or stress loom over, they have the power to tarnish your outlook and hinder your creativity. But, here’s the thing – your priorities, your creative energy, they are yours to define. It’s all about the message you’re putting out there, not who is listening.

In our creative pursuits, we often face challenges, struggles, and uncertainties. But here’s the secret sauce – you have the ability to choose how you react to anything. You can either let these challenges define you, or you can rise above the noise.

I have shown my art at festivals and galleries hundreds of times, and I can tell you that there will be days when nothing happens. No sales, no conversations, no attention, and no validation. In those moments, you have to go inside and determine how you can take that experience and make it a powerful motivator to keep going. How it is all a notch on your belt and necessary for the evolution of becoming an artist who is unstoppable by circumstance.

I understand that society doesn’t often encourage us to explore and express our true feelings, the overarching emotional state that colors our interactions. Yet, it’s there, it’s palpable, and people can sense it. So, let’s be intentional about the energy we project into the world. Most importantly, the energy we project into ourselves.

Remember, we all have struggles, and that’s okay. What matters most is how you choose to face them. Self-sabotage is a real thing, and the first step to overcoming it is acknowledging it. So, let’s stand strong, confront our challenges, and convey our messages with unwavering confidence. It is in those moments of darkness that we can find our power.

I believe in you, but take these opportunities to believe in yourself. Take these opportunities to show yourself how strong you are. Take these opportunities to pick yourself back up and move forward despite the obstacles.

I adore you,
Rafi Perez

DEAR ARTIST, LETTERS FROM A ROGUE

Please let me know your thoughts below.

MY NEW BOOK

AVAILABLE FOR SPECIAL PRE-ORDER CLICK HERE
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Finding Your Unique Artist Voice

I remember the early days of my art career, grappling with the notion of creating something uniquely mine. What exactly is an artistic voice? It felt like deciphering an ancient code. You might relate – the struggle to break free from the labels of abstract, figurative, or surreal. I mistakenly believed I had to intentionally craft something entirely novel to claim my artistic voice.

But here’s the revelation: Your voice isn’t just about style or technique. It’s about what you want to achieve, how you perceive the world, and the techniques you grow to love over time. It’s a journey of self-discovery and exploration.

Experimentation became my guide, leading me to new techniques and mediums. The challenge was real – everyone advising to specialize in one thing. Yet, my heart urged me to work with different mediums. It was about discovering what resonated with me, even if it meant going against conventional wisdom.

Finding Your Unique Artist Voice Is A Journey

Artists, including the greats, traverse various styles before finding their true calling. It’s a process of self-reflection and experimentation, a journey into authenticity that takes time and perseverance. Embrace the suck, push through the mistakes, and keep putting your creations out there.

External influences, societal expectations, and trends can be daunting. It’s easy to feel overshadowed by what’s popular. But remember, your authenticity is your strength. Don’t let market demands dictate your work. What feels new and innovative to you may not gain instant recognition, and that’s okay. Consistency and persistence will carve out your unique space.

Then comes the fear of judgment – a universal hurdle. The moment you start expressing your true self, judgment creeps in. Fear of criticism can lead you to conform and play it safe. But here’s the truth – standing out is liberating. Embrace the fear, push past it, and revel in your unique style.

Finding Your Unique Artist Voice Is A Journey

Artistic evolution is inevitable. As you grow, your skills and perspectives evolve. Don’t be confined by the notion that you reach a pinnacle and stay there forever. Embrace the fluidity of your journey, allowing your voice to evolve with you.

Finding your artistic voice is finding confidence in creating what resonates with you. It’s about being real and authentic, creating work that is deeply meaningful to you and potentially connects with others who share your essence.

So, experiment, embrace what you love, and focus on your authenticity. Your voice is the unique melody within you, waiting to be heard. Share it with the world, fearlessly. Remember, you’re amazing, keep creating, and I’ll catch you next week. Adios!

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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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Letting Go of the Glitches: A Rogue’s Reflection on Simplifying Life

Today, we embark on a journey through the intricacies of managing a self-run membership site versus the streamlined simplicity of Patreon.

A year ago, we bid farewell to Patreon in pursuit of greater control and customization for our members on our dedicated website, theroguecommunity.com. The decision seemed like the right move, given our desire to offer a plethora of exclusive content and interactions. Little did we anticipate the challenges that lay ahead.

Our artistic haven, the Rogue community, thrives on live podcasts, private streams, workshops, art challenges, exclusive videos, and more. We’ve created a vibrant space for artists to connect and grow. However, as we delved into the intricacies of managing our own site, we discovered a hidden labyrinth of technical glitches, especially with the WordPress framework and various plugins required to deliver the best membership options.

The past year became a testament to the delicate balance between managing a thriving online community and nurturing one’s artistic soul. The website, while a hub of creativity, also became a source of unexpected challenges. Every week, a new glitch emerged, demanding my attention and diverting my focus from the art studio.

As an artist, my yearly goal is to create at least 150 new works of art, a lofty ambition that drives my passion for creation. However, the demands of troubleshooting website issues left little room for artistic endeavors. Despite the behind-the-scenes chaos, the members remained blissfully unaware, shielded from the technical storms I wrestled with.

The stark realization hit me hard – in the pursuit of providing more for our community, I inadvertently sacrificed my personal artistic goals. The very essence of being an artist involves immersion in the creative process, yet I found myself entangled in the complexities of maintaining a membership website.

Last year’s goal was to simplify, a mantra that echoed through our endeavors. We streamlined processes, eliminated unnecessary complexities, and aimed for a more straightforward approach. However, the website posed a significant challenge, introducing unforeseen technical complexities that disrupted the delicate balance we sought.

The toll on my artistic output was profound. The studio, my sanctuary, became a neglected haven, visited sporadically amid the chaos of fixing glitches and ensuring the website’s seamless operation. Art, the lifeblood of my existence, took a backseat to the demands of managing a self-run platform.

The financial repercussions were undeniable. While the membership site contributed to our income, the artistic side, our primary source of revenue, suffered a decline. It became apparent that the pursuit of a self-run membership site had unintended consequences on both my artistic fulfillment and our financial stability.

As the year drew to a close, a profound reevaluation became imperative. Simplify had been our guiding principle, yet the reality begged for a more drastic shift. The decision to let go of the self-run membership site, despite the fears and uncertainties it brought, became a pivotal moment in reclaiming artistic autonomy.

The fear of returning to Patreon with a metaphorical “tail between our legs” clashed with the realization that holding onto a project that no longer served its purpose was detrimental. The members, our cherished rogues, remained at the forefront of our considerations. However, it was evident that a significant change was needed to restore the delicate balance between community management and artistic creation.

The decision to let go was not merely a surrender; it was a reclaiming of artistic agency. The emotional turmoil – fear, financial concerns, and a tinge of regret – were overshadowed by the need for a renewed focus on art.

This podcast episode serves as an open narrative, offering a glimpse into the struggles and realizations of the past year. It’s a testament to the artist’s journey, the constant negotiation between creative passion and external demands.

As we step into 2024, the mantra shifts to “simplify.” Yet, this year’s simplicity transcends the mere elimination of unnecessary complexities. It delves deeper into the notion of shedding projects that no longer serve our artistic essence.

The lesson is clear – life is short, and time is a precious currency. Focus on the things you love, and let go of the burdens that hinder your creative journey. In sharing this personal odyssey, I hope it resonates with fellow artists facing similar struggles.

Adios, wonderful rogues! May your 2024 be a year of simplicity, focus on magic, love, and everything that brings you joy. Life’s canvas awaits, and it’s time to paint with unabated passion.

Have an amazing, art-filled week, and I look forward to our next rendezvous. Until then, stay inspired!

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From Stormy Chaos to a Kaleidoscope of Creativity

Well, well, well! Look who’s back! It’s been a whopping eight months since our last adventure video, and oh, what a ride it’s been. From battling defiant trees to unexpected soirées with bats, our journey in Oil City has been nothing short of a rollercoaster of creativity and fun. So, grab your popcorn and let’s relive the highlights of our exhilarating escapade! You can watch our recent adventure below!

As we reflect on the past eight months, we realize that every storm, every surprise, and every creative endeavor has added a thread of color to our unique tapestry. The unruly tree may still cast its shadow, but we’ve learned to find beauty even in defiance.

So, here’s to the storms, the trees, the conferences, the unexpected, and the magic that unfolds when creativity meets life. As we bid adieu to this chapter, we eagerly await the blank canvas of the next, ready to paint it with the vibrant spirit of resilience, discovery, and boundless creativity.

Stay inspired, fellow adventurers, for our journey continues, and the best is yet to come! Enjoy the video: