Set amidst the scenic redwoods of Old Mill Park, the Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival (MVFAF) returned on September 19–20. By the end, this year’s festival saw an outcome of nearly 7,000 eventgoers.
MVFAF’s history dates back to 1957, when a small group of artists displayed their work in downtown store windows. From there, it has continued to recognize and celebrate the vibrant local art scene; this year featured 135 artists of all mediums ranging from jewelers and woodworkers, to painters, sculptors and beyond.
Music kept the energy lively, with the main stage featuring a lineup of both local and regional musicians that covered a wide variety of genres just as the artists did mediums. Performers included: Peter Rowan; Meggy Travers; Tim Weed; Eamonn Flynn & Dublinesque; Laurie Lewis & Nina Gerber; The Commanders Jazz Ensemble (Air Force Band); The Keller Sisters; Michael McNevin & The Spokes; Barry Sless; Tim Bluhm and Stephen Inglis; and Mark Karan‘s Budz.
As a family-friendly event, the Children’s Grove included puppetry, storytelling, music, arts and crafts, face painting and interactive experiences. All festivalgoers were also invited to contribute to the community mural project led by muralist Robert Louthan. The mural was divided into four panels that together spelled out ‘L O V E.’
Food and drinks were available at the festival, including wine tastings by six participating wineries: Barra of Mendocino, Blackbird Vineyards, Gibbs Vineyards Napa Valley, Honig Vineyard & Winery, Merriam Vineyards and Theorem Vineyards.
At its core, the MVFAF works to preserve and foster creativity. To this end, contributions extend beyond just the festival itself, with scholarships, mentorship and nonprofit programming.
