WEAPONS OF MASS CREATION FEST RETURNS TO CLEVELAND’S GORDON SQUARE ARTS DISTRICT FOR THIRD CONSECUTIVE YEAR

Regional creative event takes the next steps in its evolution to prepare for thousands of attendees

CLEVELAND, Ohio, April 25, 2012– Weapons of Mass Creation (WMC) Fest, the premier art, design and music event of the Midwest, returns to Gordon Square Arts District June 8^th-10^th, where 20 speakers, 20 designers and nearly 30 bands will enlighten and inspire 1,000+ attendees.

The concept was conceived three years ago by Jeff Finley, a partner at local design firm, Go Media, to build a sense of community and excitement among creative professionals who often interact online, but lack many opportunities to engage in person. WMC Fest has since brought entrepreneurs, musicians, artists, students and fans together to learn, become inspired, collaborate, network and celebrate.

“At many design conferences, there seems to be a disconnect between the attendees and the organizers,” says Finley. “Our goal is for WMC Fest to grow organically, without losing the personal connection that our participants have with their audiences.”

This approach was also applied when choosing the music line up, which will include over 30 bands across two stages ranging from punk and indie to folk and hip hop. Attendees can soak up the ambient soundscapes of Eluvium to the spastic energy of Cloud Nothings and Algernon Cadwallader. “We have really amped up the whole band experience this year with the addition of the colossal Saigon Plaza venue, the staggered dual stage approach, and a more diverse band roster to experience; all while keeping true to our roots and independent ethos,” said Jesse Sloan, music curator for WMC Fest. Saturday kicks off with a two-on-two break dance battle hosted by Cleveland b-boy staple Swift Ali. The winners receive a $500 cash prize.

Based on advance ticket sales and online buzz, over 1,000 attendees are expected at this year’s fest, a steady increase over the previous two years. In anticipation of the crowds, Finley has expanded the venues to include five key Gordon Square Arts District locations, all within walking distance, including:

• The Happy Dog: Pre-fest mixer
• Reinberger Auditorium: Speaker venue
• Saigon Plaza: Band venue
• ilTHY Workshop: Art & design show
• Spice Kitchen + Bar: VIP lounge

WMC Fest is funded by ticket sales, corporate sponsors, pre-fest fundraising events and, potentially, a Kickstarter initiative that is slated to raise $7,000 by Friday, May 4^th. The money will be used to fund growing expenses related to venue rentals, promotional efforts, a mobile app, and a robust street team.

The complete 2012 event schedule, including featured speakers, designers and bands, is online at WMCFest.com. Media contacts and industry partners are encouraged to attend events firsthand. For more information, including high-quality photography, video or interviews, please contact Jeff Finley at 216.939.0000 x227or Jeff@GoMedia.us.