The Burning Man Project
Guided by the values expressed by the 10 Principles, Burning Man is a global ecosystem of artists, makers, and community organizers who co-create art, events, and local initiatives around the world. Most recognizably, tens of thousands of Burners gather annually to build Black Rock City, a participative temporary metropolis in the Nevada desert.
Through art grants, mentorship, and art management programs, Burning Man Arts supports the creation of impactful, interactive artwork around the world and in Black Rock City, home to the seminal Burning Man event. The mission of Burning Man Arts is to change the paradigm of art from a commodified object to an interactive, participatory, shared experience of creative expression.
My Impact
I began working with Burning Man in 2002, while pursuing my Masters in Art History. As a member of Burning Man’s Art Team, known as the ARTery, I rose to the role of Associate Director of Art Management, overseeing the Art Department. While the original Art Team was composed of approximately 15 to 20 volunteers, I grew it to 14 teams, ranging from safety teams (Man Watch and Eyes on Art), to a team of professional pyrotechnicians and fire artists, to the stalwart group who built not only the Man Pavilion, but the Man himself. In addition, I spearheaded the Art Grant program, coordinating with two Burning Man founders and Board members the selection of projects to be supported at the annual event, negotiating funds and in kind support with artists across the globe.
The Numbers
Over my 12 plus years of work with Burning Man, I
Guided, supported, mentored and promoted over 3750 artists from all over the world, including Lithuania, South Africa, the Czech Republic, United States, and more
Curated more than 5,000 art installations ranging in size from 2 feet by 2 feet to structures over 120 feet tall
Selected and distributed art grant funds and in kind support valued at close to $25,000,000
Represented the Burning Man organization at regional activities including TEDx, AfrikaBurn, and Maker Faire
