About Jenny

For as long as I can remember, art making has always been my passion. As a child, I was seldom without my art supplies in hand, and the art classroom in high school was my sanctuary. While still in high school, my parents took me to see the musical Phantom Of The Opera, which had just launched in Melbourne. I was instantly inspired by the costumes, and soon after, I began my artistic career by designing bridal tiaras. My mum was in the bridal industry, so this was a natural progression for me. I successfully sold my tiaras to several high-end bridal boutiques in Melbourne. I don’t think the brides ever realized that a 17-year-old high school Senior was behind their bridal headpieces. I continued to design and make headpieces while I studied Interior Design and Decoration at the RMIT School Of Design.

After graduating at the top of my class in 1994, I began my Interior Design career in Melbourne, Australia before moving to London in 1998 and subsequently Chicago in 2000.  In 2005 I co-founded an Interior Design showroom and studio, Urban Source in Chicago which showcased a range of cool wallpapers, fabrics and Interior Design services.

After selling Urban Source in 2021, I began the process of rediscovering my creative voice through art. I subsequently took several textile classes at Lillstreet Art Center in mono printing, screen printing and loom-weaving. Concurrently, I undertook a one-year online mentorship course with Abstract Artist Judy Woods, which has helped me to find my creative voice through abstract and mixed media art.

In late 2023, I started to experiment with surface design, taking my artwork as the foundation. The transformation of my paintings into repeating patterns and home decor items was captivating. I found myself particularly fascinated by their application in wallpaper designs. Following six months of experimentation and research, I launched the Wiley Haus brand in June 2024. Stay tuned as I delve into new methods of utilizing my patterns and art; there's always something in development.

I currently split my time between Chicago, Southwest Michigan and the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, Australia.  From the cool, urban vibes and cultural diversity of the Chicago neighborhoods at my doorstep to the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan and the breathtaking Victorian coastline that surround me, I find inspiration everywhere!

You can follow my art journey on Instagram @jmr_art_design