“Since 1992, the Smokebrush Foundation for the Arts has produced and presented innovative arts experiences that foster curiosity and collaboration. Providing creative leadership and inspiring positive change in the Southern Colorado community and beyond.”
About Us
Main stage of the original Smokebrush Theatre, Downtown Colorado Springs
Founded in 1992, Smokebrush Foundation for the Arts was born out of a passion to enrich and uplift our community through the arts. From our early days, we worked closely with the local and professional theater scenes, offering workshops, exhibitions, children’s theater productions, world-class concerts, and numerous community art initiatives.
In 1999, we took a transformative step in our community outreach by designing and creating the beloved Uncle Wilber Fountain in Acacia Park, an iconic landmark that continues to bring joy to the children and families of Colorado Springs.
Relocating to the Colorado Springs Depot Arts District in 2000, we found a welcoming home for Smokebrush, which expanded further in 2011 when we moved to a space in the historic Trestle Building, renaming it “Marmalade.” Here, we broadened our offerings to include healing arts such as yoga, meditation, ceremonies, and kirtan, fostering a space for creativity and personal growth.
In 2012, we transitioned once again, joining the vibrant Manitou Arts Center (formerly the BAC) in Manitou Springs. With the creation of a new creative space with “Bindu”, this move allowed us to continue our mission in a new setting, enriching our offerings and expanding our presence within the region.
With the acquisition of several historic properties in Manitou Springs in 2018, Smokebrush Foundation for the Arts evolved even further. We developed the Red Crags Arts and Agriculture House as a hub for creative endeavours and artist-in-residence programs. Breathing new life into the historic Rockledge and Onaledge Houses, we developed the surrounding lands into an an expansive retreat and agricultural center named Smokebrush Farm. These properties now serve as a hub for wellness retreats, concerts, farm-to-table dinners, educational workshops, lodging, and art initiatives. The surrounding acres of terraced mountain fields, greenhouses, and fruit orchards provide a picturesque backdrop for intimate gatherings and guided agricultural tours, while proving the community with organic produce, and sustainable farming education.
Uncle Wilber Fountain, Acacia Park, Downtown Colorado Springs
Marmalade at Smokebrush, Downtown Colorado Springs
Today, Smokebrush remains a vital part of the arts community. We continue to present performances, workshops, classes, film screenings, and gallery shows, while hosting and sponsoring multi-cultural performances and events that celebrate the rich diversity of our region. Our commitment to creating spaces for artistic expression, wellness, and community connection is as strong as ever.
Bob Tudor’s one-man-band and the Smokebrush Mobile Toaster
Rockledge House, Smokebrush Farm, Manitou Springs