With Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods at its doorstep, Colorado Springs has long been the source of inspiration for artists. In 1936, the city tapped into this spirit with a world-class community arts center that continues to thrive.
The Fine Arts Center of Colorado Springs was founded by Alice Bemis Taylor, the daughter of a pioneer family who utilized her wealth and prominence to fund projects for the community. The center was initially created to exhibit Taylor's outstanding collection of Hispanic and Native American art, and to provide a museum and performing arts venue for the growing city. Soon there came a desire to have the center include arts education as well. Today, the Bemis School of Art gives the public a chance to hone their techniques in pottery, painting, photography, mixed media and more. While many classes are semester-based, there are shorter workshops for both adults and youth in which you can enroll.
With its clean and simple exterior and light, airy interior spaces, the Fine Arts Center is indicative of the bold new direction that American architecture was heading in the mid-20th century. In fact, architect John Gaw Meem won the coveted Pan American Prize of Architecture in 1940 for the Fine Arts Center’s design. Because of its recognition as a renowned example of Art Deco architecture, the entire complex is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Did You Know?
In April 2006, the Fine Arts Center of Colorado Springs opened an additional center in downtown Colorado Springs called FAC Modern, which is entirely devoted to contemporary arts.
Good to Know Before You Go:
For a complete list of events and activities available during your visit, log on to the center’s superb Web site at www.csfineartscenter.org, where the most up-to-date information on events is listed.
ADA Accessibility:
The Fine Arts Center of Colorado Springs is fully accessible.
30 W. Dale St., Colorado Springs, CO 80903
FAC Modern: 121 S. Tejon St., Colorado Springs, CO
www.csfineartscenter.org
719-634-5581, Box Office: 719-634-5583
Visit the website for current hours and admission prices to see exhibits. Members are always free.
This project is partially funded by a State Historical Fund grant award from the Colorado Historical Society.
Colorado's Historic Sites
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updated: 08/29/06