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 launched a large-scale community arts outreach project through the design and creation of the beloved Uncle Wilber Fountain. Located in Acacia Park, this gift to the City of Colorado Springs has become an iconic landmark, continuing to delight children and families with a whimsical performance that begins at the top of every hour.
Relocating to the Colorado Springs Depot Arts District in 2000, Smokebrush found a welcoming new home. In 2011, we expanded into the historic Trestle Building, renaming the space “Marmalade.” There, we broadened our programming to include the healing arts—yoga, meditation, ceremony, and kirtan—cultivating a space that supported both creative expression and personal growth.
In 2012, we transitioned once again, joining the vibrant Manitou Arts Center (formerly the Business of Art Center) in Manitou Springs. With the creation of a new creative space called “Bindu,” we continued advancing our mission in a dynamic new setting, expanding our regional presence and deepening our multidisciplinary offerings.
A pivotal evolution came in 2018 with the acquisition of several historic properties in Manitou Springs. The Red Crags Arts and Agriculture House was developed as a hub for creative endeavor and artist-in-residence programs. The historic Rockledge and Onaledge Houses were carefully restored, and the surrounding lands were transformed into an expansive retreat and agricultural center known as Smokebrush Farm.
Today, these properties serve as a center for wellness retreats, concerts, farm-to-table dinners, educational workshops, lodging, and community-driven arts initiatives. Terraced mountain fields, greenhouses, and fruit orchards provide a stunning backdrop for intimate gatherings and guided agricultural tours, while also supplying 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 presence within the Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs, and greater Front Range arts community. We continue to present performances, workshops, classes, film screenings, and gallery exhibitions, while hosting and sponsoring multicultural events that celebrate the rich diversity of our region.
Our commitment to cultivating spaces for artistic expression, wellness, and meaningful community connection remains as strong as ever.
Bob Tudor’s one-man-band and the Smokebrush Mobile Toaster
Rockledge House, Smokebrush Farm, Manitou Springs
