Burning Man 2024: Symbiotic Harmony

Employing tensegrity as a structural foundation, we aim to create two identical wooden structures—an upright 'base' on the playa and an inverted 'float' suspended above, mirroring each other. These pieces form a unique burn project, showcasing the interplay of structure and suspension.

This wooden marvel, meticulously joined with custom-built metal L brackets and suspended by steel cables, stands tall at 30 feet above the playa. From afar, the absence of visible cables supporting the upper 'float' piece piques curiosity and leaves observers puzzled by its defiance of gravity. As participants draw nearer, the enigma unfolds, revealing the intricate dance of cables that enable this piece to balance in perfect symbiotic harmony with itself and its surroundings.

Under the celestial canvas of the night time desert sky, the installation metamorphoses into a mesmerizing spectacle. A fading, multi-colored light system bathes it in a soft, ever-shifting radiance, subtly hinting at the graceful movement of the 'float' piece. This ethereal display further enhances the mystique, inviting participants to immerse themselves in the wonder of this captivating creation.

Building upon the success of our 2022 project, 'Suspended in Misbelief,' this new installation aims to elevate our message. Beyond showcasing the accessibility of art creation, we strive to ignite a profound sense of defiance and astonishment in participants. We want them to question the seemingly impossible, marveling at the grand scale of our artistic endeavor.

Citizens of Black Rock City will engage with our installation by taking on the captivating challenge of unraveling its structural mystery. The suspended upper part, appearing as an optical illusion, beckons participants to embark on an investigative journey, fostering a dynamic interaction as they endeavor to comprehend the delicate balance and engineering finesse behind the piece. When they touch it, they can feel the weight of 2,000 lbs gently swaying back and forth, adding a tactile dimension to the experience.

This piece serves as a metaphorical representation of the delicate balance required between seemingly opposing forces or perspectives. While their arrangement may suggest opposition, they are fundamentally the same. Only together can these entities forge a striking and harmonious equilibrium.

The 2016 theme, 'Da Vinci's Workshop,' left a profound imprint on my perception of class relations and the role of philanthropy in any renaissance. At first glance, the 'float' piece may seize attention, but it's essential to recognize that neither element bears greater importance; the project thrives solely through their collaboration.

On burn night, as the 'base' ignites, the 'float' will crash, toppling the base in the process.

Our installation seeks to invoke a profound sense of wonder, curiosity, and balance. This balance extends beyond its physical form to encompass the recognition of how equilibrium is perceived versus how it is authentically achieved: through shared bonds and connections.