Resident Information

Artist Responsibilities and Expenses

The Bray program is minimally structured, with no formal critiques or syllabi. Resident artists are expected to be self-motivated and help out with various tasks around the Bray. Residents meet as a group once a month to discuss upcoming events and issues that need to be addressed.

Each resident receives a free studio space and 24 hour access to state of the art firing facilities and equipment. Visit the Resident Facilities page to learn more.

Resident Artist expenses include the cost of materials and firing at the Bray. Residents are also responsible for their own housing and living expenses.

Costs for firings are kept as low as possible, and are dependent on the kiln size and firing temperature. Fees range from $4 for a small electric test kiln to up to $500 for a six-day anagama wood kiln firing. Materials can be purchased at the Bray's Clay Business at discounted prices.

There is no on-site housing, and residents make their own living arrangements. Affordable housing can be found in Helena: apartments rent for $750 and up, rooms in private homes start at about $450. Most residents find it necessary to have a car.

Some residents can meet their expenses by selling their work in the Bray galleries. Others find part-time jobs in Helena to help with expenses. There are opportunities for resident artists to teach community classes, which provides teaching experience and some income.

Fellowships for year-long residents and scholarships for short-term summer residents are awarded annually. Visit the Fellowships & Scholarships page to learn about the financial opportunities available.

Residency Types

Long-term
Long-term residents are granted a one-year residency with the option to stay for a second year. Long-term residencies begin in the fall of the year and each long-term resident receives a one-year fellowship.

Summer
2–5 months between mid-May and mid-October

Spring/Fall
1–3 months between mid-May and mid-October