Art meets technology at the 2011 Ingenuity Festival this weekend, September 16-18 on the lower level of the Veterans Memorial Bridge. While Cleveland is traditionally known as a manufacturing city in the traditional sense, Ingenuity Fest celebrates the manufacturing companies that lean more toward the creative and artistic side.

“When the festival was first conceived seven years ago, it was exploring this idea of art and technology,” explains director of programming James Krouse. “When people say ‘technology companies’ they are usually thinking about software. We’re missing out on communicating with companies that don’t define themselves as technology companies."

Krouse cites Aeroclay as a good example of the kind of technology Ingenuity Fest celebrates. The startup company out of CWRU develops an advanced polymer lightweight material that can be used in everything from packaging to sound barriers. “It’s a very advanced material used in all kinds of applications,” says Krouse. “That is the kind if company growing here in Cleveland.”

From chemistry demonstrations to 3-D printers to cutting edge treatments for eye problems, the festival celebrates that pioneering and unique efforts in art and science going on in Cleveland. “We’re not a trade how, but this is an example of something that’s kind of that 'wow' factor, says Krouse.  “We think it’s important for technology to be on display.”

While the festival features all the expected attractions associated with the word “festival” -- tents, beer, music -- it also highlights the innovations that make Cleveland unique. “It’s a celebration of innovation, at the same time it’s people out having fun,” Krouse says. “We think it’s important for this technology to be on display.”

Source: James Krouse
Writer: Karin Connelly