The Secret Artifact Society
An Artist's Discoveries
Open your mailbox to
something worth keeping.
Each month from my studio to your mailbox — a fascinating art-history story, an archival watercolor print, a journal prompt, and an art activity.
The thrill of a secret worth keeping.
Beauty worth enjoying.
The Secret Artifact Society ventures into the corners of art history to surface forgotten stories — painters, makers, scientists, explorers, and other fiercely creative souls who followed their calling against the odds.
From these stories, a letter, an original painting, an art project, and creative reflection prompts are created to bring you a beautiful analog experience delivered every month to your mailbox.
Every month, a story the
history books left out.
Four things.
Every envelope.
Written by Jen Ray
The full story behind the month's secret. The history, the people, the hidden thing that most of the world has forgotten. Personal, specific, and written as if Jen is telling you directly across a table. This is not a pamphlet. It is a letter worth reading twice.
An Original Watercolor
Printed on 100% cotton rag archival paper using pigment-based inks rated for 100+ years without fading. Each 5×7 print weaves beautiful imagery with the month's secret — the living, natural world and the hidden story it holds. Made to frame. Made to keep.
Ready the Moment It Arrives
A project printed directly on premium cardstock — ready to color, cut, fold, or complete using art supplies you likely already have. Each card includes a QR code linking to a short video of Jen completing her version in her studio.
A Beautiful Piece of Paper
Based on the month's theme — writing prompts to inspire your dreams, your memories, and your creative practice. A quiet invitation to reflect.
Artworks that happen to arrive
in an envelope.
Every archival print begins as an original watercolor painting in Jen Ray's California studio. The beautiful subject matter is woven together with the story of that month's secret. These are not illustrations. They are artworks that happen to arrive in an envelope.
Over the course of a year, they become a collection.
- Original watercolor by Jen Ray
- 100% cotton archival paper
- Pigment-based inks — 100+ year fade resistance
- Arrives unframed, signed by the artist
- 4 × 6 inches — frameable, collectible
Collect all sixteen items.
Claim your prize.
Your first envelope includes a Secret Artifact Society prize card. Each month, a secret code word is hidden somewhere in your letter. Find it, record it on your card, and collect all 12 throughout the year, plus four bonus items.
I want to join the Society
Hi there,
I'm Jen.
As a multidisciplinary artist, I work in watercolor, contemporary embroidery, gouache, and acrylic. My work is rooted in a deep appreciation for nature, often focusing on botanical themes and the intricate relationships between humans, animals, and the natural world.
I explore the dynamic intersection of femininity, strength, and nature through my art, frequently depicting female figures whose gaze embodies power and grace.
I earned a B.A. in Fine Arts and a B.A. in Psychology from Claremont McKenna College, with a semester in Florence, Italy, where I studied art history. Southern California is home, and I derive inspiration from the diverse natural world around me.
Frequently Asked
Questions
How does the subscription work?
If you join by the 20th of the month, you will receive the current month's envelope. If you join on the 21st or later, you will receive the next month's envelope.
How is the envelope sent, and when will I receive it?
We send your envelope via USPS first-class mail (no tracking — this keeps it affordable for you). Postage is included in the price. We mail from Southern California, and delivery takes anywhere from 2 to 14 days depending on your location. International mail is typically 2–4 weeks.
What is the prize card?
In your first month, we send you a prize card. Each month, there will be a secret code word in your letter to fill in on the card. Collect 12 words plus 4 bonus items, and we send you a prize!
What is the Golden Ticket?
Every month, one Society member will find a Golden Ticket in their envelope. The lucky finder can choose from an archival art print, a 15-minute conversation with Jen, or a prize from her store.
What is your cancellation policy?
You can cancel at any time. If you cancel before the 15th of the month, you will not be charged for the following month. If you cancel after the 15th, your last month will be the month after.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes! We ship worldwide. International delivery typically takes 2–4 weeks depending on your location. First-class postage is included in your subscription price.
Still have questions? Reach out at support@jenraystudio.com
I am ready for a
mailbox surprise.
Join the Fellow Curious Collectors around the world
Cancel any time · First-class postage included · Ships from Southern California