Archie Bray Foundation

for the ceramic arts

The Archie Bray Foundation for the Ceramic Arts (The Bray) is a public, nonprofit, educational institution founded in 1951 by brickmaker Archie Bray, who intended it to be "a place to make available for all who are seriously interested in any of the branches of the ceramic arts, a fine place to work." The Bray is actively committed to promoting, celebrating, and sustaining the ceramic arts through the residency program, education, gallery, ceramic materials and technology, and community engagement on a local, national, and international scale. In the words of Archie himself, "...for all who are seriously and sincerely interested in any branch of the ceramic arts, a fine place to work."

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The Bray is located three miles from downtown Helena, Montana, on the site of the former Western Clay Manufacturing Company. Set against the wooded foothills of the Rocky Mountains, the 26-acre former brickyard is internationally recognized as a gathering place for emerging and established ceramic artists. The nearby mountains and brick factory ruins provide a backdrop for the creative environment; more important is the dynamic arts community created by the resident artists that come to The Bray to work, share experiences, and explore new ideas.

The Archie Bray Foundation recognizes and honors the Indigenous peoples of this region on whose ancestral lands the Foundation now stands. Indigenous people have inhabited the valley in which Helena is situated for more than 12,000 years; the valley acting as a crossover for Salish, Crow, Bannock, and Blackfeet tribes among others.

We respectfully acknowledge and honor all Indigenous communities whose land we reside on in what is now known as Montana— past, present, future—and are grateful for their ongoing and vibrant presence. We believe that acknowledging and reflecting upon the contemporary lived experience and history of the Indigenous peoples here in Montana and around the world are essential steps toward creating a more equitable world. Learn more through the #HonorNativeLand initiative of the U.S. Department of Arts and Culture, and consider contributing to Indigenous-led organizations doing important work to further the health and wellness, sovereignty and self-determination of the first peoples of this land.