I’m really excited to share a FREE abstract desktop wallpaper for you to download and brighten up your computer with. Designed by the lovely Jamie Gray of GRAYJAY Studio who I met whilst working for The London Artisan, her colourful, bold, geometric jewellery caught many people’s eyes. at her gorgeous stall. More recently I caught up with Jamie at the London Local pop-up where she kindly agreed to design this gorgeous wallpaper (download at the bottom of the post); shared her top tips for selling at design markets AND shared an epic list of podcasts to keep you all motivated.

INTERVIEW WITH JAMIE GRAY, JEWELLERY DESIGNER & ABSTRACT ARTIST

HI, I’M Jamie Gray AND I AM the designer/maker behind GRAYJAY studio. My training and background is as a graphic designer and abstract painter.

I LIVE in Bermondsey AND MY STUDIO/BUSINESS is based at home. It has large windows, ample storage and a door to keep the mess contained and separate from rest of my flat.

MY FAVOURITE PART OF THE CREATIVE PROCESS IS… There are many creative aspects to not only jewellery making but also running my own business and I get to jump around from one to the next. Ideation; working with my hands with various tools/materials; iteration; branding; learning new skills; refinement; creating my displays; styling/photography and managing my online shop and social media. I also enjoy the process of making when its organic and experimental, without plan or expectation.

THE BIGGEST THING I’VE LEARNT SO FAR IS… (not new knowledge but…) make a lot, and put it/yourself out there. However, knowing that is one thing – actually putting in the time and doing it is hard. I’VE ALSO LEARNT that the London craft/maker community (its creators and supporters) are kind, welcoming and encouraging. And there are so many opportunities available!

I’M CURRENTLY INSPIRED BY…
• gems, crystals and stones
• colour
• natural patterns/textures (patina)
• wabi sabi
• abstract, linear, geometric motifs and forms
• I don’t go to a specific online source for regular inspiration (maybe I should)
• my painting practice informs my jewellery and vice versa

I ALWAYS ENJOY listening to podcasts while I make. Some of my favourites are: Snap Judgement, Let’s Know Things, Reply All, Humanature, Death Sex and Money, Start Up Podcast, Invisibilia, 99% Invisible, Radio Lab, Love + Radio.

MY TOP 3 TIPS FOR SELLING AT DESIGN MARKETS ARE…
• Your display should be cohesive, tidy and efficient.
• Give an explanation of the process. People don’t always know it’s handmade and they like to learn how things are made too.
• Have a positive attitude.

MY LAST HOLIDAY was in France, and my next holiday is to Croatia.

I’M REALLY LOOKING FORWARD TO evolving my line with new techniques and materials; expanding my line to higher end, one-off pieces and more wholesale opportunities.

FREE ABSTRACT DESKTOP WALLPAPER DOWNLOAD

To get your computer lookin’ pretty, simply click on the image below to open in a new window. From there you can right-click to save it and then set it as your desktop background. Let me know if you do!