Growing Up with IMAF

The Independent Music + Art Festival (IMAF) was created to honor artists who perform original live music and create original work. Now in its 14th year, IMAF 2015, featuring 12 bands and over 100 art and craft vendors, will take place on Saturday, June 13 from noon to 8pm.

IMAF has been one of the most exciting parts of my summer since I was about 4 years old. First I attended the festival with my parents, then as the years progressed I became more involved. When I was still a small child, I was kindly allowed a booth where I could sell my crudely handcrafted, over-priced jewelry to attendees. I always had customers, maybe because I was a sweet little girl, or perhaps I reminded passers-by of their children or grandchildren. Whatever the reason, the experience allowed me to develop skills in organization, entrepreneurship and interaction at a young age, and as I became older my involvement with the festival only grew. Eventually, I started volunteering, some years as a greeter, some years selling soda, until last year when I began an internship at the Harrison Center. It was then that the opportunity was given to me to be a co-coordinator of IMAF. I jumped at the chance because I wanted to share with my community everything I’d grown to love about the festival.

This year I am coordinating the festival again, and I am so grateful for this wonderful experience. From picking bands and food vendors to working with our advisory committee, I’ve learned so many skills that will be valuable in the future.

As we approach June 13th, the details are falling into place.  We are excited to announce this year's event sponsor, Precision Abrasives and very soon we will reveal the lineup of bands and vendors and begin recruiting volunteers. The 14th annual IMAF is shaping up to be a great one. We hope you’ll join us!