Rafi

Perez

EAC Rostered Teaching Artist

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Artist Biography

Rafi Perez is an award-winning artist who chose to abandon the security of a corporate career to pursue the raw freedom of a creative life. Growing up in Chicago, he was deeply influenced by his grandfather’s whimsical storytelling, which taught him to find magic in the mundane and see the world through a lens of infinite possibility. Today, his work is a vibrant blend of surrealism, abstract expressionism, and pop art that defies easy categorization. Whether he is working with paint, sculpture, music, or writing, Rafi’s mission is to explore the boundaries of human emotion and empowerment, often featuring fantastical creatures and landscapes that invite others to embrace their own unique perspective.

Now based in Oil City, Pennsylvania, Rafi has transformed his personal journey into a blueprint for others as a dedicated mentor and "Rogue Artist." Since 2014, he has reached a global audience through his YouTube channel and his book series, offering honest, unfiltered advice for creators who want to build a life on their own terms. Alongside his wife and creative partner, Klee Angelie, he continues to push the limits of what it means to be a working artist, from producing large-scale murals and community workshops at The Exchange to playing with their band, Better On The Drums. For Rafi, art is more than just a career; it is a way to reclaim one's soul and inspire a more empowered, creative world.

Artist Statement, Mural Making Process, and Art Style(s)

I’m all about making art that feels real and accessible. My style is a mix of bold colors and expressive energy. I’m looking to create something that has a soul. Whether it’s a small piece or a massive mural, I want my work to grab your attention and make a boring wall feel alive. For me, art isn't just for museums; it’s meant to be lived with and enjoyed by everyone.

I keep my mural process straightforward so the focus stays on the art and the community. It all starts with figuring it out; I spend time looking at the wall and the neighborhood to make sure the design actually makes the space better rather than just covering it up. From there, I create a digital blueprint by painting the design onto a photo of the wall so we can both see exactly how it will look before I ever crack open a can of paint. When it’s time to get it on the wall, I use a simple grid system, basically a giant connect-the-dots, to keep the proportions accurate while letting my brushwork stay loose and fun. I use high-quality, weather-tough paints like spray paint and heavy-duty acrylics to ensure the colors pop, and I finish everything with a clear UV-shield so the sun won’t fade it over the years. Basically, I handle all the big-project logistics so we can just focus on making something awesome that people will love walking past every day.

  • Erie

    Crawford

    Warren

    Mercer

    Venango

    Lawrence

  • Lead Artist or Artist Assistant

  • Lead Artist

  • Indoors and Outdoors

  • Brick

    Concrete

    Vinyl siding

    Drywall

    Crosswalks

    3D surfaces

  • Paint

    Aerosol/spray paint

  • Experienced

  • Will work alone or with others

  • N/A