Montana Historical Society

The Montana Historical Society collects, preserves, and shares the state’s vibrant history to foster a deeper understanding of Montana’s diverse heritage. Their world-class museum exhibits, state archives, and research center provide the space to discover, research, learn, and honor the Treasure State's story. The Montana Historical Society started in 1865, making it one of the oldest cultural institutions in the West, with a vision of safeguarding Montana's stories and historic treasures for future generations.

Additionally, the site is home to the Larry Len and LeAnne Peterson Library & Archives, a non-circulating library, archives, and photograph archives featuring thousands of feet of manuscript collections.

Other Helena amenities include:  

• Archie Bray Foundation for the Ceramic Arts 

• Holter Museum of Art 

• Omerta Arts 

• Drumlummon Institute 

• Helena Symphony 

• Several dance schools

Montana Historical Society Website

The Montana Historical Society (MHS) approaches historical preservation through deep collaboration, co-curation, and a commitment to tribal sovereignty. Guided by a dedicated Tribal Stakeholders Group representing every Sovereign Nation in Montana, Native perspectives directly inform the museum's design, galleries, and educational programs. This partnership is embedded directly into the Montana Heritage Center through dedicated spaces—such as the lodgepole-style Sovereign Nations Arbor at the east entrance, an outdoor Habitats Interpretive Trail featuring native traditional plants, and a state-of-the-art indoor Smudge Room designed for spiritual cleansing, prayer, and reflection. MHS also produces statewide Indian Education for All (IEFA) curricular tools and supports Native artisans through an Indigenous Marketplace.

While in residence at the Montana Historical Society, artists will have access to:

• A dedicated room featuring a conference table exclusively for the artist's use as a workspace during their stay   

• Extensive collections of Indigenous cultural items, contemporary art, and archaeological materials   

• The Larry Len and LeAnne Peterson Library & Archives, including photograph archives and manuscript collections   

• Contact with site leadership and knowledgeable staff regarding the historical collections and archives 

The Montana Historical Society is housed in the Montana Heritage Center, in central Helena directly across from the Montana State Capitol at 225 North Roberts Street in Helena, MT.

It is just minutes from Helena's historic downtown, placing artists near local cafes, shops, and cultural destinations like the Holter Museum of Art and the Archie Bray Foundation.

The location is easily accessible by car, bike, or local public transit. Parking is available nearby in the Capitol complex area.

The artist will be housed in proximity to the Montana Heritage Center. The exact location is yet to be determined, however, generally, residents are housed in a centrally located furnished home or apartment with a private bedroom. Applicants will have the opportunity to share their housing needs in the Artist-in-Residence application.

In addition to an artist presentation, the artist will have the opportunity to connect with the local community and visitors by leading a workshop, collaborating with area youth through school art clubs, and sharing their creative process with tourists and county residents.

• READ ADDITIONAL FAQ’s document

• Open AIR is committed to accessibility. If the application process or fee poses a barrier,  please reach out to Rachel at program@openairmt.org