Toni Chanakas · Ingenuity’s Under the Bridge 2010

October 4th, 2010

Photo by Ian Petrella

Bright neon, a kaleidoscope of red and purple lights illuminated the darkened tunnels of the unforeseen space below the Detroit-Superior Bridge. A puppet theater created entirely of garbage, water cascading into the Cuyahoga River below, and red translucent lanterns floating into an abyss, these and many more art and technology events were showcased at the 6th Annual Ingenuity Festival. Giving participants an entry into the unknown, this venue for the 2010 Ingenuity Festival was perfect where artists maximized on that eerie potential.

As I reflect back just a mere seven days ago, many others and I were awestruck by the transformation of an abandoned space into an art/music metropolis. I must admit this is one of my favorite “must see” events of the year. Why do I say that? My enjoyment stems from the creativity that is being showcased either on an unconscious or conscious level. I either think, this is ingenious, “Oh, wow, that is so cool. Or, I can respect what is on display that I may not comprehend right away. It can be way out there. For example, there was an interesting installation with two figures with their heads having identifiable things coming out. At first glance, it was odd but the more a few of us stood there and talked about what the message might mean. The piece suddenly told a profound story. That is what art does, instills a dialogue either negative or positive. It gets participants thinking about its meaning, therefore, success. It’s Ingenuity!

Photo by Ian Petrella

Further down the tunnel, I cautiously walk in front of a “smart board” where participants, who are not artists, try their hand in a new technology. Several television monitors were set up for video presentations, I happen to notice the “Free” Stamp and a stream of long Cleveland winters. I watch anxiously to see, what’s next. There were environmental expressions with a piece that strung hundreds of plastic bottles between two pillars. Powerfully done with a statement that hundreds of bottles are discarded every hour. I do not remember the exact number but it definitely got my attention. The creativity of Artists’ thinking patterns that stretches your mind is what brings me back year after year. What will I see this year that will blow my mind?

As a creative individual, my other reason for attending is who else will I bump into with my same curiosity. In fact, it took several hours to walk from the east entrance to the west for all the friends/acquaintances I saw. Mostly, individuals were wandering around with a beer in their hand in sheer amazement that this space even exists. I, like everyone else, misses the rare opportunity to view the space a few times a year that is opened to participants on Labor Day weekend. But, this view is entirely unique for the expanse of lights in opulent colors, strobe lights that restored the venue to an almost light club feel. Admittedly, this was not my first time “under the bridge.” Ingenuity did a mini-event last year just Saturday and Sunday where I tried to find my way around with the same amazement on my face, thinking, “Wow, just Wow.”

Last year, I walked warily beginning at the east and heading towards the west on a cold, dank Saturday afternoon. I had no idea what I was going to experience since I have never been there before. Kudos for the individuals who created a YouTube video explaining where all the four entrances were location, this was a huge help. I remember thinking I couldn’t get anyone to join me in my quest traveling under, the bridge. I had the same exuberance as participants this year, what a fantastic opportunity to have Ingenuity here. I aimlessly walked and saw every nook and cranny of the space; and, how innovative the artists had been. Bands having a stage behind weathered pillars that were once lost have come alive. I lingered at the door with drums blaring in the background; I will have a quick beer before heading home. My friends definitely missed out on this rare find.

This year more artwork was present on the east side where the restrooms must have been. An installation of a water drop magnified onto a barren white wall, tiles erratically fallen onto the ground. In another smaller room, a poem was strung with forgotten fabric where participants tried to decipher its meaning. We all crammed in, but no one cared. This is Ingenuity Festival where everyone explores the mind into many other parameters – a new world perhaps. I had to tear myself away when my eyes became blurred and I could no longer see. One more tunnel and then I will leave.

I look back just a week ago; and I still remember a diverse crowd atop bikes and parents pushing strollers, the anticipation upon their faces renewed my faith that Clevelanders want a rare “wow” experience. We are creative Clevelanders, right!  I gaze upon my twitter feed that many were happy they attended but some missed the drama at night. A few of the comments I read from people: What else can we use this fantastic space for? A Haunted House for Halloween or A Christmas gift bizarre was some of the ideas. Whatever the space is used for, I hope Ingenuity continues with an even better mix of Art/Technology. So, I can tell people, Ingenuity Rocks!

More information about my creative marketing, see

http://www.tonichanakas.com/creative-projects/

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One Response to “Ingenuity’s Under the Bridge 2010”

  1. Carla Says:
    October 7th, 2010 at 7:40 pm

    Great piece on Ingenuity and the Bridge. However, I suggest that this marvelous space is much too special to be relegated to temporary purposes such as Halloween events or seasonal boutiques. It could be a stunning mixed-use development that would be absolutely unique–a true destination. If only, if only, we do not waste this opportunity!