Interview: Laura Bray

Laura Bray of the Frame Garden
101 South Main St
www.theframegarden.com

When did you start *Framing* art?
I started framing in the 1990’s.  Having started making art, I thought it would be great to learn how to frame my own work. I eventually became the manager of a busy gallery in Bozeman then made the move to opening my own shop, The Frame Garden, in 1998. 

Did you always want to be an artist? What are some other jobs you have had?
While I started framing at the time in my life when art had  become my primary focus, I didn’t grow up seeing myself working in the arts.  Rather, science and the medical field had always been my interest.  Before joining the art world, I was a well-educated scientist who had taught at the college level and was just a few items shy of a PhD in neuro immunology.

How did you end up in Livingston?
Livingston is my childhood home.  In part, opening the frame shop provided a way for me to be here, working at something I love.  That would not have been as possible if I had continued as a neuro immunologist.

Who inspires you?
I’m inspired by all the different artists out there actually doing their art.  It doesn’t matter whether they are making a living at it or it’s just a hobby.  I know how difficult it can be to make the time and stick with it and I’m impressed when people do that.

What is your soundtrack while you work?
I’m not a real auditory person.  I’m more likely to turn on NPR or just listen to whatever my co-workers put on.

What’s your favorite thing about Livingston? Where do you like to eat?
I love that Livingston is full of an eclectic group of people who have made their way here.  When I was growing up it was simply a railroad town. There was a shift that started in the 1970’s and it’s been really interesting ever since.  There are wonderful things that have not changed and new aspects that are wonderful, too. 
I enjoy a lot of the local eateries, but my favorite Livingston dining experience starts running into folks waiting in line at Mark’s, then taking burgers to Sacajawea Park to enjoy them while my daughter plays or we watch the river roll by.

Anything else? (hidden talents? Best pets? Are you a magician?)
Any description of me at the The Frame Garden would be incomplete without mention of the amazing shop dog, Mia, and my favorite local artist, my daughter Kate.

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