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Navigating The Holidays As An Artist

I want to share some thoughts with you as we navigate the wild landscape of artistry during the holiday season.

The holidays are a peculiar time for artists, aren’t they? A blend of opportunities and challenges, where the art you pour your soul into may or may not find its way into the hearts of others. I’ve had years of both highs and lows during this festive season, and I want to let you in on a little secret: it’s not just about the art.

Sure, art is a deeply personal gift, and it can be a hit or miss during the holidays. But here’s the thing, the magic doesn’t lie in waiting for someone to recognize your masterpiece. It lies in how you navigate these times and turn challenges into opportunities.

During the holidays, I’ve learned to adapt. I create unique items like ornaments and limited-edition calendars, making my art more accessible and giftable. It’s not about compromising authenticity; it’s about finding ways to connect with people during a season when gifting is at its peak.

Let’s talk about the emotional rollercoaster this season can be. Whether you’re soaring high on sales or feeling the weight of unsold pieces, remember this: your art matters. Every stroke, every color choice, every piece of your soul poured onto the art makes a difference.

It’s easy to get caught up in the commercial frenzy of the holidays, with businesses shouting about sales and discounts. As an artist, you might feel the pressure to join in. And that’s okay—just make sure you do it authentically. Create something special, something that aligns with your artistic vision.

Promoting your work consistently is a challenge, no doubt. I had to make videos, posts, and blogs reminding people about my calendar until the last day of the virtual show when the final pieces found their homes. It’s exhausting, and there’s that inner voice whispering in your head that you’re being annoying. But remember, your voice matters, and your art deserves to be seen.

If the financial success doesn’t come during the holidays, don’t let it discourage you. Your art is bigger than any sale or promotion. Each brushstroke is a step toward your masterpiece. Your journey as an artist is a masterpiece in itself. Embrace the process, the highs, the lows, and everything in between.

So, as we dive into the holiday madness, remember why you started this journey. It’s not just about making money or becoming a marketing whiz. It’s about expressing your authentic self to the world. Your art is a unique gift, and you are the masterpiece.

Wishing you all a joyful holiday season, filled with creativity, authenticity, and the unwavering belief that your art matters. Adios until next week!

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Open Studio TONIGHT! at 5 PM EST

Greetings, you fabulous creative creatures of the internet!

Hold on to your hats because tonight is the night – the night we take you on a wild rollercoaster ride through our studio, home, and gallery! That’s right, we’re live-streaming straight from the heart of creativity, and you’re invited to join in on the madness!

After what felt like a gazillion years (okay, maybe just a year or so), we’ve finally whipped our studio into shape, and tonight is the grand unveiling! Picture this: art, jewelry, stories, live music, and enough good vibes to power a spaceship. Oh, did I mention there’s a giveaway? Because, YES, there’s a giveaway – and it’s going down at 6 PM EST sharp! Get ready to win some seriously awesome stuff!

Now, I know you’re sitting there, thinking, “But what’s on the agenda?” Fear not, for I have the inside scoop on tonight’s festivities. Drumroll, please…

Golden Woolly Agoggle by Klee Angelie

FIRST – GREETINGS and STORIES!

We’ll kick things off with a virtual high-five and share some stories about our journey. Spoiler alert: there may or may not be hilarious anecdotes involved.

SECOND – STUDIO TOUR!

Time to put on your explorer hat as we guide you through our newly minted studio, revamped gallery, and media studio. Watch out for the hidden treasures – you never know what you might stumble upon!

THIRD – LIVE SALE!

Ready your wallets and get those itchy trigger fingers ready because we’re unleashing a live sale! Snag some unique pieces for yourself or your loved ones at a special “Thank You” price– ’tis the season for artsy goodness.

2023 Ornament By Artist Rafi Perez Original Art On Reclaimed Wood 2X3

FOURTH – GIVEAWAY!

Drumroll intensifies. The moment you’ve all been waiting for – the giveaway! Tune in, participate, and you might just be the lucky winner walking away with some jaw-dropping goodies.

FIFTH – MUSIC PERFORMANCE!

Break out your air instruments and prepare for a musical extravaganza. We’ll be serenading you with tunes that’ll make you tap your toes and maybe even attempt to bring a smile to your lips!

AND FINALLY – QUICK Q&A (Ask us anything)

Curious minds, this is your time to shine! Throw your burning questions our way, and we’ll do our best to answer without breaking into a nervous sweat.

Throughout the entire event, you’ll have the chance to chat with us via the YouTube link. We’re counting on you to bring the virtual house down with your witty comments and infectious energy.

So, set a reminder, tie a string around your finger – do whatever it takes to remember that tonight, at 5 PM EST, we’re bringing the party to your screens. Get ready for a night filled with laughter, creativity, and the kind of fun that’ll leave you smiling for days.

Enter to win, buckle up, and let’s make this a night to remember! See you on the virtual dance floor, you amazing humans! 🚀💃🕺 #StudioParty #ArtisticExtravaganza #GiveawayGalore

WHAT: Rafi And Klee Virtual Open Studio
WHERE: The Sunflower House Via This Link: https://rafiandklee.com/live/
WHEN: Saturday, December 9th At 5 PM Eastern
WHY: Because it is going to be a blast!

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Open Studio And Giveaway December 9th

It’s that time of year again! Welcome, art enthusiasts and festive souls! I’ve got some seriously exciting news to light up your December – Klee and I are throwing open the virtual doors of our Sunflower House for the most anticipated event of the season: our Virtual Open Studio on December 9, 2023, at 5 pm Eastern! Before we get started, the give-away link is down below, enter to win! Now back to describing the awesomeness that will be our virtual Open Studio!

Picture this: cozy up in your favorite holiday ugly sweater, grab a cup of spiked cocoa, and join us for an art-filled extravaganza right from the comfort of your home. It’s like a front-row seat to the coolest art show in town, no pants required!

This year promises to be extra special. We’re not just offering you a peek into our creative space; we’re cranking up the fun with music, a virtual tour of our art studio, stories that’ll warm your heart, and of course, loads of laughter. Because who says virtual events can’t be as lively as a holiday party at the Sunflower House?

And wait for it – drumroll, please – we’re rolling out some fantastic deals on select artworks! It’s like a holiday miracle – jaw-dropping art at irresistible prices. Plus, brace yourselves for the grand reveal of brand spanking new artworks and exclusive items crafted just for this virtual extravaganza. It’s arts galore!

Crimson Serenade By Artist Rafi Perez Original Art On Reclaimed Wood 10X12
Forest Deep Sterling Silver Moss Agate Tree of Life Necklace by Klee Angelie Jewelry

Now, here’s the real kicker – this year, for the first time ever, I’m unleashing a collection of Christmas ornaments and greeting cards that are bound to sleigh your festive spirit! Who knew art could deck the halls so stylishly?

Agoggles Ornament By Rafi Perez

Our Virtual Open Studio is more than just an art show; it’s a chance for us to kick back, relax, and share some holiday cheer with you. It’s like having a front-row seat to our laid-back hangout, where the only agenda is to have a blast!

And if you thought it couldn’t get any better – hold onto your Santa hats – we’re hosting an incredible giveaway! Imagine scoring a Rafi and Klee art and jewelry bundle or even a one-on-one Zoom meeting with us. Dreams do come true lol! Just sign up below for a chance to win these fantastic prizes, and we’ll be announcing the lucky winners during the show.

So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the festive spirit, mark your calendars for December 9 at 5 pm Eastern, and head over to the page below to sign up for our virtual giveaway. Let’s make this year’s Virtual Open Studio the talk of the season – an unforgettable evening of art, laughter, and holiday magic. We can’t wait to virtually hang out with each and every one of you!

WHAT: Rafi And Klee Virtual Open Studio
WHERE: The Sunflower House Via This Link: https://rafiandklee.com/live/
WHEN: Saturday, December 9th At 5 PM Eastern
WHY: Because it is going to be a blast!

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Finishing Your Art Projects

Welcome to this week’s expedition into the realm of finishing art projects. Today, Klee and I embarked on a podcast adventure, exploring the depths of creativity, struggles, and the elusive art of completing our art projects. Now, gather ’round, as I unravel the tapestry of our conversation.

The Uncharted Terrain of Project Completion:

We delved into the seemingly straightforward concept of finishing art projects. What does it truly mean to complete a project? Well, according to Klee, it’s as simple as finishing your art projects. A good answer, indeed, and yet, the journey unfolds with more complexity than meets the eye. The act of completing is sometimes an act of will. Also, give yourself more time, just because you put something on a shelf, doesn’t mean you are never going to finish it.

The Balancing Act of Creative Multiplicity:

As creatives, we often find ourselves juggling an array of projects—sound, books, videos, paintings, and jewelry. The challenge, Klee and I noted, lies in striking a balance amid this myriad of creative pursuits. The intricate dance between various mediums requires focus, intention, and, most importantly, the art of finishing what we start.

Single-Tasking Greatness:

In the midst of our creative chaos, we echoed the sentiment that multitasking is but an illusion. The key to unlocking greatness lies in single-tasking—pouring our undivided attention into one project at a time. The revelation? Focus is the secret sauce to letting our creative mojo thrive.

Navigating the Post-Holiday Lull:

Post-holiday periods often bring a paradox of challenges. While busy times demand strategic thinking, the lull can tempt us into the abyss of indecision. Klee shared her struggles during these quieter times and the importance of deliberate downtime—conscious choices to recalibrate rather than getting lost in the void of “I don’t know what to do today.”

“Fa Chunking” and Embracing Strategic Focus:

Fiona introduced the concept of “fa chunking,” a brilliant strategy to break projects into manageable 5-minute increments. Whether pushing through or hitting pause, this technique allows for intentional and strategic progress. Klee highlighted the value of strategic focus, ensuring that our creative endeavors align with our current priorities.

As we wrapped up this artistic odyssey, one thing became abundantly clear—finishing art projects is not just about the final brushstroke or concluding note. It’s a journey of self-discovery, intentional choices, and the delicate dance of balancing our creative pursuits.

So, whether you’re navigating the chaos of creativity or embracing the calm after the storm, remember to find your rhythm. Clear the cache, chunk your time, and, above all, relish in the joy of creating. May your creative week be filled with magic, wonder, and the completion of inspiring projects.

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Your Calendars Are Shipping Out With A Little Extra Love

Guess what’s making this year absolutely, positively, undeniably awesome? Drumroll, please… Rafi Limited Edition special calendars! Can I get a virtual high-five? I’m practically bursting with excitement because these calendars arrived and are next level. Seriously, they’re so fantastic that even I, the mastermind behind prior years’ calendars, am blown away.

I’ve been pacing around like a kid on Christmas morning waiting for these beauties to arrive, and when I finally got my hands on them, oh boy, it was like holding a slice of heaven. The quality is off the charts, and I can’t wait for you to experience the calendar magic.

Before I dive into the calendar extravaganza, let me take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to all you wonderful souls who’ve already snagged one of my calendars. You guys are awesome! Your support means the world to me, and I can’t thank you enough for embarking on this creative journey with me.

ALL CALENDARS WILL SHIP BY DECEMBER 11th

Now, let’s talk calendar shipping dates! Klee and I are currently in full-on calendar-packing mode. It’s like a calendar assembly line, and we’re loving every minute of it. We’ve already started shipping! Yup, the calendars are making their way to your doorstep as we speak. The last grouping of Calendars will ship on December 11th, you will receive a tracking number via email.

If you’re still on the fence about getting one, here’s your friendly nudge – there are only 20 calendars left! That’s it, just 20. And because I’m feeling extra festive, I’ve extended the sale until December 9. It’s your last chance to grab a slice of “Rafi” for 2024.

But wait, there’s more! For that extra dose of motivation, I’ve thrown in a signed poster. Something to jazz up your space and keep those creative vibes flowing throughout the year. It’s like having a pocket-sized muse, minus the awkward conversations.

Also, mark your calendars (pun intended) for December 9 at 5 pm Eastern because we’re throwing a virtual art show extravaganza! This event will be full of live music, a tour of the Sunflower House art studio (yes!), and of course, plenty of stories and art to keep your creative juices flowing. We will be sharing links soon!

Thank you, thank you, thank you for making this year incredible. Hanging out with you and growing as an artist has been an absolute blast. Here’s to an exciting and awesome 2024 – let’s make it memorable together. See you at the virtual show!

Cheers, You Rock!

Rafi

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Don’t Ruin The Thing You Love Doing

Today, I want to dive into a topic that has been brought to my attention countless times—the fear of turning your passion into a source of income. I’ve heard people say, “Don’t try to make money with your hobbies; you’ll ruin them.” Well, I’m here to challenge that notion and share some insights that might just change your perspective.

First off, I want to acknowledge those of you who have made a deliberate decision not to monetize your art. Your creative space is sacred, your escape from the demands of everyday life. I get it, and this podcast isn’t aimed at convincing you otherwise. What I want to address are those who hesitate to explore the idea of turning their passion into a source of income due to the fear of losing the joy and authenticity associated with their craft.

Let’s talk about our relationship with money. From a young age, we’re conditioned to associate money with tasks we may not enjoy—chores, responsibilities, jobs. It becomes a reward and punishment system. Fast forward to adulthood, and many of us view money as something stressful, tied to bills and obligations. So, when contemplating monetizing our passion, we carry this baggage into the equation.

Don’t Ruin The Thing You Love

Here’s the key: it’s not the act of making money from your hobby that’s the issue; it’s the mindset you bring to it. Your pre-existing relationship with money can either enhance or detract from your creative experience. This doesn’t apply universally—some people navigate this effortlessly, while others find themselves trapped in a cycle of stress and resentment.

Klee and I have dedicated years to understanding this dynamic. The first time you sell a piece, you’re forced to confront your emotions around money. If you harbor negative feelings, they can seep into your artistic journey. It’s not about making money; it’s about the deeper emotions and habits associated with finances.

The trap lies in treating your art as a transaction rather than a passion. The moment your goals shift from creating meaningful art to making money, you risk losing the essence of why you started in the first place. This slippery slope leads to stress, resentment, and a feeling of selling out—creating solely for profit, not for the love of the craft.

Don’t Ruin The Thing You Love

There must be a balance. While financial stability is crucial, your motivation should extend beyond money. If you’re solely chasing dollars, you risk forgetting why you create art in the first place. The art you produce should be a reflection of what you want to see, not a product designed solely for profit.

It’s easy to get lost in the noise of analytics, marketing strategies, and the pressure to “build a business” like a “professional.” But as artists, our primary job is to create meaningful art. Don’t fall into the trap of chasing trends and trying to replicate someone else’s success. Your authenticity is your strength.

So, as you navigate the intersection of art and commerce, keep your why in focus. Remember why you started creating art—it wasn’t about making money but expressing yourself and sharing your vision. Don’t let the pursuit of profit dilute the passion that fuels your creativity.

Thanks for tuning in! Your dedication to your craft inspires me, and I’ll catch you next week. Keep creating authentically!

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Juggling Art With A Job

Today, we’re diving headfirst into the world of juggling, not the circus kind with flaming torches (although that would be awesome), but the art of balancing a side hustle, a corporate gig, and our artwork. 

This topic comes from our friend Chris, he asked, “Now that I’m doing some dog walking as a side hustle I’m finding I have little to no energy for art, or at least not the big painting projects. Instead just sketchbook doodles. Any tips for when the focus is on one thing, the dogs, energy low but still wish to be producing some paintings, or do I just need to let it go and accept life is very different for the moment?”

THE PROBLEM

Chris decides to spice up his financial game by venturing into the world of dog walking alongside his art. But, alas, the struggle is real. Exhaustion sets in, and the poor guy can’t find the time or energy to give his artistic soul the attention it deserves.

Firstly, major kudos to Chris for taking the plunge into the entrepreneurial waters of dog walking. Being your own boss of two businesses is like conquering a dragon—it’s no small feat. Now, as a fellow ringmaster juggling various artistic endeavors, YouTube videos, podcasts, books, music, and a membership site, let me spill the beans on the not-so-secret sauce: a schedule.

We Are All On This Creative Journey Of Craziness

CREATE A SCHEDULE

I know, I know, schedules can feel like a creative straightjacket. But trust me, without some semblance of order, you’ll be doing the crazy dance of chaos. And nobody wants that. No one likes being told what to do. But a schedule you create? That’s the roadmap to sanity in the whirlwind of creativity.

NON-FINANCIAL PRIORITIES

Now, let’s talk about priorities. Art is a slow burn. It’s not a microwave pizza you pop in for quick results. It requires dedicated time. When the exhaustion hits, it’s tempting to prioritize the money-making hustle over the passion project. But be wary—you don’t want to turn your love into a joyless job.

We Are All On This Creative Journey Of Craziness

TAKE BREAKS

And here’s the golden rule: self-care is not negotiable. Breaks are not a luxury; they’re a necessity. It’s like recharging your creative batteries. Remember, you’re more productive when you’re not running on fumes.

STAY ORGANIZED AND REALISTIC

Organization is your loyal ally. The Fantastic Four list (no, not the superheroes) keeps your tasks manageable. No overloading yourself! Stay realistic with your goals. You’re not a comic book hero; you’re an artist. So, chill on the unrealistic expectations.

MAKE IT EASY

Creating an environment that makes it easy to start is an art in itself. Don’t make the process an obstacle course. A clutter-free table with an easel ready to roll can be your artistic haven. Make starting a breeze, not a hurricane.

STAY INSPIRED

When life throws curveballs, and your art takes a backseat, don’t beat yourself up. It’s okay. Life is unpredictable. Stress management is the key—don’t let worry and self-doubt hijack your creative journey. Take a breather.

We Are All On This Creative Journey Of Craziness

IT’LL ALL BE OK

And the grand finale—give yourself permission. It’s okay if the canvas stays untouched for a while. Life is a constant ebb and flow. If you need to figure stuff out, take your time. Art will be waiting patiently, like a loyal amigo.

So, Chris, whether you dive back into your art or take a temporary creative siesta, it’s all in your hands. Your journey, your rules. And to everyone tuning in, keep being amazing, keep creating, and remember, it’s okay—art can wait, but life won’t. Adios for now!

Watch The Video:

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z8L3jIkqEGo%5B/embedyt%5D
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Weird Questions People Ask Artists

Today, we’re diving into the quirky world of questions artists get bombarded with. I mean, let’s face it, people who don’t do art see us as these magical unicorns who conjure art out of thin air, and sometimes the questions we get are just as fantastical. So, grab your sketchbook, and let’s tackle some of the wild queries together.

How long did it take you to make that?

First up on the list: “How long did it take you to make that?” Ah, the timeless classic. My go-to response? “About 40 years.” Because, you know, I’ve been at this art game since the crayon days, and it took a bit of time to fine-tune this masterpiece. It’s not just about the one piece; it’s a lifetime of artistic evolution!

Can you draw me for free?

Now, here’s a gem: “Can you draw me for free?” Short answer: No. I mean, come on, even unicorns need to pay the bills. If I drew everyone for free, I’d be living in a cardboard box, not a magical art studio.

Remember To Be Weird And Have Fun

What does this mean?

Then there’s the deep philosophical inquiry: “What does this mean?” when pointing at a piece. My tactic? Flip the question back at them – “What do you see?” It’s like inception, but with art, and it opens up a conversation instead of leaving them stranded in the depths of artistic interpretation.

Why don’t you get a real job?

Ah, the classic “Why don’t you get a real job?” To that, I simply say, “Because real jobs are overrated.” I mean, who needs a nine-to-five when you can have a canvas and colors as your companions?

Can you teach me to draw in a day?

The golden question, “Can you teach me to draw in a day?” My answer is a masterpiece in itself. “I could teach you to draw a stickman right now.” But, of course, I sneak in a little truth – becoming an artist takes time, dedication, and more than a day.

Remember To Be Weird And Have Fun

Why is it so expensive?

Now, the wallet-wincing question: “Why is it so expensive?” My response? “My art is not for everyone.” Boom. It’s not about the price; it’s about the value, and my art is like a rare gem, not your run-of-the-mill trinket.

How much money do you make?

And then we have the grand finale: “How much money do you make?” Seriously? It’s like asking a magician to reveal their secrets. My go-to? “It’s not consistent, but it’s a magical rollercoaster of creativity and financial surprises.”

When faced with these quirky questions, remember to have fun with it. Practice your responses in the mirror, turn those awkward moments into a chance to showcase your wit, and, most importantly, keep having an amazing, awesome, and creatively wild week. Adios!

Oh, before I go, here is a shameless plug:

Want to be inspired to smile and persist for all of 2024? Then you need one of my limited edition calendars. We still have some left and would love it if you took one home 🙂

2024 Calendars By Rafi Perez
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Overcoming Obstacles As An Artist

Welcome to the chaotic rollercoaster that is my life in the art studio. Seriously, it’s been like juggling flaming swords while trying to chew gum and create art—yeah, that kind of crazy!

My daughter just joined the circus—uh, I mean, moved in. Adjusting to the new family dynamic is a whole wild ride, albeit a wonderful one. But hey, in the midst of this chaos, I thought, why not sit down and have a little art party with you guys? Because who doesn’t love a good art party?

Now, let’s talk about overcoming obstacles. I am in the midst of dealing with some and I wanted to share my insight on how I deal with them. Let’s get right into it.

I KEEP A POSITIVE MINDSET.

I know, I know, positive mindset sounds like something you’d find on a unicorn’s wishlist, but bear with me. Picture this: you’re spiraling down into the abyss of a problem, and all you see are roadblocks. That’s when you need to whip out the positivity like it’s confetti at a celebration. Shift your focus from the problem to the things that you can control. It’s like a magic trick, but better.

And positive vibes don’t mean slapping a happy face sticker on everything. Oh no, we’re diving into the deep end of emotions, facing them head-on. It’s like emotional weightlifting—acknowledge, don’t bury.

Overcome Obstacles By Remembering Your Power

I BLAME NO ONE.

Blame game, anyone? Nope, we’re not playing. Blaming others is like handing over your superhero cape; you lose your personal power. So, be an astronaut with a ballpoint pen—get creative, find solutions, and for the love of art, just do your thing.

I FA-CHUNKING DO IT.

Now, let’s talk strategy. Ever heard of fa-chunking? It’s not a new dance move; it’s a game-changer. Break down your tasks into bite-sized chunks, and chip away at that obstacle like a ninja sculptor in 5, 15, or 50 minutes. Chip away at the obstacle gradually. It’s all about avoiding burnout and staying on the path without overwhelming yourself. And if one day you’re not feeling it, well, give yourself permission to Netflix and chill. Pick it up tomorrow; it’s not going anywhere.

Distractions, distractions. We’re all guilty of trying to be multitasking wizards, thinking about everything at once. Spoiler alert: it’s a procrastination party. Stay focused, stay the course, and save the mental breakdowns for your one-person fa-chunking dance-off in the studio.

I STAY ADAPTABLE.

Adaptability is the name of the game. Life’s not black and white; it’s a freaking rainbow. Be crazy, be unpredictable, change things up. It’s like being a mad scientist, but without the explosions (hopefully).

Overcome Obstacles By Remembering Your Power

I ALLOW MYSELF TO HAVE A TANTRUM.

Tantrums, because why not? We all have them, and it’s perfectly okay. Release those emotions in your own way, just avoid causing chaos by directing it at anyone else. It’s not about them, it’s about you. It’s like a solo rock concert in your living room—let it out, and then move on.

I STAY RESOURCEFUL.

Resourcefulness time. It’s okay not to have all the answers. Reach out, face your fears, ask for help. But seriously, skip asking Steve and Uncle Charles. They don’t get it. Seek advice from the cool cats who understand your artistic journey.

PERSIST THROUGH THE BULLSHIT

Last but not least, let’s talk persistence and determination. Focus on what you can control, not just the big, scary end goal. Grit is your secret weapon. Even a smidge of grit can turn that turd into a shiny ball of success. And yes, I still don’t know how to feel about sanding a turd, but it’s a party in the analogy department.

And there you have it! These are the mindsets I keep in mind when I have an obstacle in my way! You can watch the video where I discuss this and get some more insight.

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8d51oYFBBSU%5B/embedyt%5D

MY CALENDAR IS STILL AVAILABLE (40 Left)

Big shoutout to everyone who snagged a calendar! We’ve got 40 left, and the pre-orders are still going strong until December 1st. 

2024 Calendars By Rafi Perez

Alright, it’s time for me to put on my creative superhero cape and dive back into the art abyss. Adios, you amazing artists! Remember, keep creating, keep partying, and most importantly, keep being fabulous!

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Challenging Notions of Normality and Embracing Creativity

Today, I’m diving headfirst into the whirlwind of thoughts and emotions that often ensnare us artists in the pursuit of validation. Buckle up for some truth bombs and a few rambles about what we experience in this wild artistic journey.

Let’s unpack this: the world sometimes frowns upon our choice to weave dreams into reality. There’s this pervasive notion that being an artist is indulgent, impractical, and perhaps a touch on the childish side. But, spoiler alert—it couldn’t be farther from reality! You and I, and all of us creative souls, are the true change-makers, the visionaries of the world. We aren’t just decorators for the elite; we’re warriors wielding brushes, chisels, or words to shape the universe.

As Artists, we challenge the world.

In a society fixated on the hamster wheel of ‘normalcy,’ many of us have done the corporate gig—punched the clock, treaded the corporate ladder, and danced the dance of conforming to predetermined roles. It’s almost like being a cog in someone else’s wheel, striving for bonuses, climbing that ladder, hoping not to get the boot in uncertain times. It’s a reality that sucks the life out of living, disguised as a mirage of security.

But here’s the rub: that ‘security’ is often a facade, a glittering illusion we’re taught to chase. The truth is, the sky’s the limit when you’re an artist. Sure, there’s no weekly paycheck guarantee, but what you invest is what you reap. As for me, the corporate pay was handsome, but it had a ceiling, a limit to the joy I could wring out of it.

I’d Rather Be Happy Than Responsible.

Yes, there’s that incessant battle for validation, isn’t there? As an artist, explaining what we do can sometimes feel like describing a technicolor dream to a black-and-white thinker. It’s tough for people to grasp the multifaceted nature of our work. But, here’s the silver lining—embracing this unique path is a choice to express authentically, to craft something genuinely ours. It’s about donning multiple hats, being a businessperson, an artist, and a wild dreamer all at once.

Life isn’t a dress rehearsal. When we’re on our last voyage, it won’t be thoughts of more money or being ‘normal’ that crowd our minds. It’ll be the undying wish to have pursued our passions, embraced our authenticity, and shared our creativity with the world.

Our art? It’s more than a pretty ornament. It’s a catalyst for change, a gentle whisper nudging the world toward a more colorful existence. The mere act of boldly putting ourselves out there, embracing vulnerability, and persisting despite setbacks—each step chips away at the walls society builds around itself.

We Create Change By Being Who We Are Meant To Be.

And here’s a truth bomb: we are dreamers, rebels against conformity. We’re not just living but striving for more, pushing against the mundane, and inspiring others to do the same. What we create, our art, leaves an indelible mark. It becomes a timeless echo, outliving our mortal selves.

So, keep that childlike wonder alive. Embrace the messiness of creation and revel in the chaos of your creativity. Your art matters. It’s not selfish, it’s practical, and it’s a blaze of inspiration. Don’t let the world dim that shining beacon of imagination within you. Keep creating, keep inspiring, and most importantly, keep being unapologetically you.

Until next week, keep shining bright, you wonderful beings. Adios for now, and let’s keep painting this world with our vibrant hues. Cheers to all the magical unicorns out there!