There is no on-site housing at The Bray. Bray staff will provide some support in finding a place to live, but ultimately residents make their own living arrangements and are responsible for their housing and living expenses. For more information, please refer to the Resident Handbook.
Do I need a car?
We are located 3 miles from downtown Helena, and there is no public transportation, nor are there sidewalks to our campus. Some resident artists have commuted by bicycle, foot, or ride sharing. However, the weather can make walking and biking difficult much of the year. There are not many places to live within walking distance.
What is the weather like?
Montana is beautiful, but it is important to come prepared for the climate. The weather is often extreme; summer temperatures can be over 95F and winter temperatures can dip below -20F. We usually get snow and ice in winter and have periods of strong winds. Summers bring hot, dry periods when wildfires are a concern. Please make sure you bring warm layers of clothing, sun protection, and sturdy shoes for outdoors.
Can I bring my pet?
Pets are not allowed inside any of the public buildings including studios at The Bray. Dogs are allowed on the grounds but must be on a leash and picked up after. Though Helena is a pet-friendly town, it can be more difficult to find a place to rent with an animal. Please do not plan to leave a pet in a vehicle.
When does the residency begin and end?
The current residency period is for resident artists who will begin on June 2, 2025. Summer residencies end on August 31, 2025. Long-term residencies end May 31, 2026; a simplified application allows long-term residents to apply for a second-year fellowship.
How do I afford a Bray residency?
Long-term resident artists are awarded a $7,500 fellowship for one year. Summer resident artists receive a $1,500 fellowship for three months. Both are considered taxable income. Some ways resident artists afford being in Helena include getting a part-time job, selling work in Bray galleries, and teaching classes through our Education and Engagement program. Some resident artists live together to share housing costs. Please reach out to Bray staff for more support in this- we realize the award money will not cover all your living expenses while you are here.
What if I am not a U.S. Citizen?
If you have a visa that will be valid for the entire residency period and allows you to be paid, and you have a U.S. social security number, you may apply for a standard residency. The U.S. State Department typically allows artists with a valid J1, O, or OPT extension of their student visa to participate in a formal program like The Bray. Tourist/visitor visas are not valid for participating in a Bray program.
If you do not already have a visa, please use our Resident Artist Application- International Program for 2026. This will allow you time to apply for the necessary visa.
