Collection SummaryThis Oral History project promotes and sustains The Bray mission by documenting its history for future generations to experience and share. The Bray is an important hub for diverse ceramic artists who become part of the Helena community for the duration of their stay, and many settle in the surrounding area after their residency. Each artist leaves a piece of art for The Bray permanent collection, but this alone does not adequately document their lived experience in Helena. These oral histories document their lives in a holistic way, looking at their time from the perspective of an artist’s experience at The Bray, their experiences in MT, and how this contributes directly to Montana’s vibrant and diverse arts community and culture. The project also features past resident artists who have gone on to have careers in ceramics in MT and abroad. Interviews contrast how time at The Bray helped set up artists for a creative future, and how The Bray helped make Helena a cosmopolitan arts hub with national and international connections.
This oral history project is an important contribution as it captures some of the many stories that show how The Bray actively contributes to the cultural heritage of MT and how The Bray's influence affects the ceramic arts field locally, nationally, and internationally. Contributing InstitutionArchie Bray Foundation
