Investing in Arts and Culture
Discover the heart of Iowa’s artistic community at Brucemore, where creativity knows no bounds. Since its inception, Brucemore has been a haven for the arts, offering everything from intimate concerts to vibrant festivals. While no longer a private family home, the legacy of the people who started it all provides inspiration today.
In 2019, we proudly launched the Brucemore Artisan Studio, expanding our focus towards supporting underserved artists in a variety of mediums and genres. Through access to mentorship, technologies, and trusting audiences, the Studio serves as a hub for community-building and investing in the creative ecosystem.
Follow along with the various projects to celebrate the power of art to inspire and unite.
Our Inspiration
In the early 1900s, Irene Douglas brought a vibrant tradition to Brucemore that still thrives today: championing local art. An avid patron of the arts, Irene infused her home with music and creativity, much of it sourced from Iowa and regional artists. Following Brucemore’s transition from a private residence to a cultural center in 1981, Irene’s legacy endured, shaping the institution’s commitment to honoring local arts and culture. Through countless theatrical performances, concerts, art exhibitions, and tours over the decades, Brucemore has remained a beacon of Irene’s enduring arts legacy.
Who We Thank
A special thank you to the following donors for investment in the Artisan Studio!
- Brucemore Supporters
- Organization Support Grant Fund of the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation
- UFG Insurance
- Nina E. and Victor D. Merveaux Endowed Fund for Historic Preservation of the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation
- Silos and Smokestacks National Heritage Area
What We Do
Artisan Development Projects
Artists embark on a journey of growth and inspiration with Brucemore. Each year, arts professionals handpick talented artists eager to expand their horizons. Teaming up with our seasoned creatives and technicians, they craft projects that showcase the transformative power of a fully funded support network. Check our calendar for upcoming Artisan Studio Showcase events, where you can meet the artists, experience their work, and delve into their captivating journeys.
Live from the Artisan Studio Series
Every month we bring together a group of artists to curate an entertaining and culture-filled evening in the Carriage House studio space. You get a chance to discover something new from local artists sharing their talent during a unique event that is all about showcasing the best of music, spoken word, theatre, and more created right here in Eastern Iowa. Each event is filmed and used as part of an online digital series. View Live from the Artisan Studio online.
Nooks and Crannies of History
Indulge your curiosity with our engaging short documentaries, where you will delve into captivating anecdotes about people, places, and topics. Sit back, relax, and uncover the intriguing stories and history behind a variety of subjects. Let us be your guide on a journey of discovery. View the Nooks and Crannies of History.
A Day in the Life of a Garden
Curious about life working at a public garden and the daily beauty it entails? Learn insights, tips, and tricks gleaned from the experience of Brucemore’s expert staff. Whether you have a sprawling garden or a few pots on your apartment balcony, there is no such thing as a garden that is too small. Discover practical advice to elevate your own green space at home. Let us inspire you to nurture beauty right outside your doorstep. View A Day in the Life of a Garden.
Live Events
From soulful music to rhythmic dance, stirring poetry to compelling spoken-word performances, immerse yourself in our live events performances. Set against the beauty and history of Brucemore’s gardens, landscape, and buildings, these events provide an experience that may be relaxing, thought-provoking, entertaining, and always enjoyable.