Local Artist Completes Brutus the Bear Mural in Livingston

Brutus was a popular attraction at Montana Grizzly Encounter and passed away earlier this year. Brutus was loved by many people in Montana and beyond. He was friendly, he was intelligent, and gave people the opportunity to experience what it was like to get up close and personal with a grizzly bear.

Brutus was born in January 2002 and lived most of his life at Montana Grizzly Encounter Rescue and Educational Sanctuary. Due to being born in captivity, Brutus couldn't be released into the wild. He was adopted by Casey and Ami Anderson. Throughout his life, he was the star of many educational videos about bear safety and conservation and was also featured in the National Geographic documentary Expedition Grizzly. He also made appearances on Oprah and Good Morning America. Brutus absolutely loved people and being around them. He was very gentle.

In memory of Brutus, local artist Kay Potter was commissioned to paint a mural of Brutus in Livingston. The mural was recently completed and can be seen on Callender St, between 2nd and Main in downtown Livingston. A fund was set up shortly after Brutus passed away, and wouldn't have been possible without the support of generous donors.

Thank you to the folks that donated to make this mural happen! It was a vision of Beth O'Neil and you all made it possible. You should be proud of your support for public art, and the impact you have created in our community. And thanks to the Livingston Historic Preservation Commission for giving us the go-ahead. And to the building owners for giving us the space, and Rachel for making that connection. Shout out to my husband Jim who fueled me with Shepard's pie, baked ziti and reassurance. You're the best.

said local artist Kay Potter.