Creating Two-Way Partnerships
Engagement programming (formerly Outreach) allows for two-way partnerships with traditionally underserved populations. Working in collaboration with nonprofit organizations, self-identified groups, schools, and individual artists, The Bray aims to facilitate unique learning opportunities designed by and for participating students and educators.
Programs are tailor-made (see below) to meet each group's objectives. Possible programming ideas may include, but are not limited to:
- A project-based, 2-hour Experience Class
- A recurring class focused on a specific topic or technique
- An artist visit or demonstration in your classroom
- Virtuall Zoom classes or talks
- Social practice projects
- Mentorship opportunities
- And so much more!
Tailor-Made Programs
We've designed our Engagement Programming with maximum flexibility, with the intention to best facilitate your group’s individualized goals. We work with you to develop and customize an educational experience most beneficial to those participating.
Programs are developed and scheduled on a case-by-case basis. Interested parties are encouraged to contact our Education Manager at education@archiebray.org to begin a conversation about programming possibilities today!
Previous Partnerships
We've had the chance to work with some amazing groups and individuals through various engagement programs. Learn more about some of our past and present programming below!
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Manchester Craftsmen's Guild & Youth Arts
Piloted in 2021, we partnered with MCG & YA to develop a unique program for Pittsburgh Public High School students. Working closely with MCG & YA instructors and curriculum, Bray Resident Artists joined students virtually throughout the school year sharing their experience and skills.
The program year culminated in a week-long trip for MCG & YA students to explore The Bray, receive personalized demonstrations and instruction from Resident Artists, and experience open studio time in a world-class ceramic facility. We are pleased to be continuing this program in 2025!
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Healthcare Appreciation Classes
In effort to show our appreciation to the Helena healthcare community for their tireless efforts throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, The Bray offered free Healthcare Appreciation Classes.
Over 120 healthcare workers participated across 10, 2 hour Experience Classes offered free of charge to anyone in the healthcare sector. The results proved a fun, relaxing, hands-on creative clay experience, with participants taking home a one of a kind functional artwork.
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Montana Schools
We love working with schools and have had the opportunity to engage with students and faculty from: Winnett School District, Helena Home School, Sweet Grass County High School, Bozeman Field School, Livingston Middle School, St. Ignatius High School, St. Andrews Elementary, Augusta High School, Trio-Pre College, Helena School District PEAK students, Powers School District, East Helena High School, Cottonwood Agile Learning Center, Belgrade High School, Sheridan Elementary, and SACC Helena Summer School
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NONPROFITS AND COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS
Collaborating with other nonprofit and community organizations is an important aspect to the engagement work we do at The Bray. Working closely with such groups as Destination Imagination, Lewis and Clark Library, Helena Indian Alliance, local Girl Scout troops, and Helena Food Share allow us to support and amplify the great work happening in our community. Through tailor made programming, we strive to provide transformative experiences through clay in a creative and safe environment for all.
Prospective Partnerships
The Bray’s education program brings in students of all ages and experience levels to learn new perspectives and processes in the ceramic arts through engagement, continuing education, and unique summer programming. Engagement was a major goal in the construction of the Education and Engagement Center with the intent to provide exposure and training for underserved populations and the Helena community all under one roof.
Black, Brown, Indigenous, LGBTQ+ communities, as well as people with disabilities face immense systemic barriers to education (including ceramic education) and exposure to the arts. Since 2018, we have been working with schools and organizations who serve marginalized populations to create a framework which prioritizes ceramic education for these communities. We are continually seeking funding to partner with more organizations to make Engagement a core focus.
If you're interested in Engagement opportunities, please reach out to our Education Manager at education@archiebray.org To learn how you can contribute to future Engagement programs, contact our Development Office, at support@archiebray.org
