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Belisama. Photo by Toby Keller.
From spiritual enlightenment to experimental collaboration to sheer mind-tripping revelry, numerous motivations drive Burners to make the yearly pilgrimage to Black Rock City, NV. But one core principle unites them all: radical self-expression.
This is especially manifest in the wonderfully strange and whimsical art installations that populate the playa.
(Those not familiar with the BM premise should check out The First-Timer’s Guide to Participating at Burning Man for an excellent overview.)
Although Burning Man was always predicated on art and participation, it wasn’t until 1995 that Larry Harvey began introducing yearly themes to give focus to the growing, and increasingly diverse community.
Since then, the scope of the art installations have only been limited by the creators’ imaginations (and budgets).
some of the more awe-inspiring and ambitious pieces on the playa in recent history
Uchronia, 2006. Photo by Splatworld.
Nick-named the Belgian Waffle, much to the irritation of the Belgian team that constructed it, Uchronia was nearly 200 feet long, 100 feet wide, and 50 feet tall, dominating the Black Rock City skyline.
Steampunk Tree House, 2007. Photo by Mayhem.
Pipes run throughout the metal tree and branches that release actual steam for a sauna-like effect, which was a solace against the cold Nevadan desert nights.
Temple of Hope, 2006. Photo by John Curley.
Since 2000, the Temples have been built and ceremoniously set aflame along with the Man, becoming an enduringly popular ritual at the festival. Mark Grieve’s interpretation in 2006, an elegant courtyard populated with massive stupas, took participants to an exotic land.
Big Rig Jig, 2007. Photo by Russ Atkinson.
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