Rising Stars: Meet Jessie Lamay

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessie Lamay.

Jessie, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I was born and raised in Georgia, spending most of my life north of Metro Atlanta. Now I split my time between Athens and Atlanta, hoping to be a full-time resident in the near future.

I’ve been making art and selling it for almost a decade now. In 2020 it changed from an after work side hustle to full-time gig. Covid hit hard and I lost my job, at that point I gave myself the chance to pursue art. I never went back!

What started as painting portraits has now turned into a wide and diverse offering of goods and commission projects. While still offering pet and family portraits, I have been able to add clay sculptures and vessels, digital art prints, and most notably; jewelry to my repertoire in 2021.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
In May of 2020, my mom passed away from a long, very private battle with cancer. Because of Covid safety procedures, our time spent together was limited. A few months later, the world still felt like too much. Seeking relief would soon lead me to a Bipolar I diagnosis. In search of healing, I picked up beads at a local craft store. Beads had been one of my favorite hobbies as a child. Since that day, I have been making and selling one of a kind jewelry.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I would describe my work as playful. Someone called it that one time and it really stuck. I flourish with one of a kind projects and strive to make each piece it’s own. I create from a place inside myself that is nostalgic and I believe folks can see and feel it in my work.

Any big plans?
I plan on continuing to pursue my art full time. I would love to be involved in more pop-ups and markets through the city. I hope to grow both my technical skills and range of offerings in the new year, including collaborations on goods with other local makers and artists.

Pricing:

• Earrings – $5.55 single // $8.88 pair
• Necklaces- $22.22-$44.44
• Custom minis- $45-65
• Custom magnets- $25-35
• Custom paintings- $65+

Contact Info:

• Email: jesslamay8888@gmail.com
• Instagram: @prettylobster – Art & prints
  @prettiestlobster – Jewelry