Image: Montana Museum of Art & Culture, Missoula
The Montana Museum of Art and Culture at the University of Montana has acquired Stephen Braun’s ‘The Prize’ for its permanent collection, marking the first work by the Montana artist and UM ceramics alumnus to enter the museum’s holdings. The acquisition was announced on September 1, 2026.
Braun is identified in the announcement as a clay artist whose work is known for a brash aesthetic, pointed social criticism and sustained concern for Montana’s environment. The statement does not provide further details about ‘The Prize,’ including its date, dimensions, materials or the circumstances of the acquisition.
The addition places Braun’s work within the collection of a university museum based in Missoula. The Montana Museum of Art and Culture’s public information describes the institution as preserving Montana’s oldest and deepest public art collection, while also supporting educational programs, exhibitions and opportunities for visitors to engage with art.
Braun’s connection to the University of Montana gives the acquisition a direct institutional link. He is described as a graduate of the university’s ceramics program, although the available announcement does not specify when he studied there or provide additional biographical information.
The museum’s published visitor information lists regular public hours from Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 6 p.m., with free regular tours offered on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 2 to 2:50 p.m. The museum is located at 32 Campus Drive in Missoula, according to its visitor page.
No exhibition date or display plans for ‘The Prize’ were included in the acquisition announcement. The work has instead been identified as the first piece by Braun to join the Montana Museum of Art and Culture’s permanent collection.
