Learn more about our programs by visiting the MAC   |   513 Manitou Ave, Manitou Springs CO 80829  


Manitou Art Center

(719) 685-1861

We cultivate an inclusive and resilient creative economy of people and resources through active participation and outreach.



Stories from the Big Red Chair

The story of the MAC

Tell us your MAC Story!

Selfie Contest

Please Tag #BigRedChair & @ManitouArtCenter

Unique & Fun Prizes!

Big Red Chair Concert Series

Details & Line-up Coming Soon

BYO - Build Your Own:

Interpretation of the Big Red Chair


History of the BIG RED CHAIR

The Big Red Chair, situated right at the entrance of the 513 Manitou Avenue MAC building, is iconic. Sure, it’s big and it’s red, but there’s more to The Big Red Chair than mere physical attributes. It is eye-catching, perhaps because it’s big and red, but also because it’s a piece of public art that beckons the viewer. Try to resist it. Tell me you’ve never climbed the stairs and sat (or stood) in that Big Red Chair. Whether you’ve lived in Manitou for 40 years or you are visiting for the first time, The Big Red Chair invites you to climb on up and get that picture. It’s one of the things we love about it. The Big Red Chair is the de facto Manitou Art Center mascot. For the MAC, it symbolizes the power of art to engage and inspire and entertain. It brings us together in a shared experience and ownership. The Big Red Chair is not only a part of the MAC, but a part of Manitou’s unique landscape.

TBT to October 2013, when the Big Red Chair was restored with help from Manitou Springs Arts Council, Concrete Couch and Lion. The Big Red Chair is the iconic image associated with the MAC, made by Giles Thompson, Colorado College Class of 1993. Here is a 

#TBT memory from CC professor of Art, Carl Reed, "he did the piece as a final project in an introductory 3D design course. It was remarkable in that context, as he did it start to finish in about 3 days - 4 at best. I strongly advised against his plan, as it was way too ambitious for such a short time frame, but he was a junior or senior drama major who had designed and built stage sets, so he had a lot of technical skills and was supremely confident. The wooden seat was perhaps the most impressive element, as he had to steam and laminate it in order to replicate the original curves."

The #BigRedChair is a favorite fixture, an irresistible photo opp lure, and a sort of unofficial mascot for the MAC. Share your Big Red Chair pics and stories on Facebook HERE!

The Big Red Chair was listed as a tip on Roadside America




Your Neighborhood Art Center for 37 Years

Music, theatre, pottery, printmaking, and other loud, slightly dangerous, and intensely messy events happen here daily. Locals and tourists alike flock to our galleries, studios, exhibition space, and classrooms.  Our spacious facilities can also accommodate events, conferences and offices. experiences are unlimited - how will you enjoy the MAC?

Hours of Operation

Tuesday to Thursday 10am to 6pm

Friday and Saturday 10am to 5pm

Sunday and Monday CLOSED


513/515 Manitou Ave, Manitou Springs, CO 80829 

(719) 685-1861 






513/515 Manitou Avenue, Manitou Springs, CO 80829  (719) 685-1861 Manitou Art Center is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.



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