We are building a temple worthy of your blessings. Our vision, like the temple itself, is grand. Explore… be inspired… We truly hope that you will be involved.


MATERIALS

To understand the vision, one must also be familiar with the materials. While in the past we have not burnt our art, the specific intention of doing so has presented us with certain challenges—which we gladly welcome. We intend to build this structure from burnable materials, while still including non-burnable materials (metal and glass). These other materials add the element of permanence to a structure that is, by it’s very nature, evanescent and impermanent. Everything that does not burn will be re-used or recycled where possible.

The temple will incorporate a number of structures made of various materials, including four outlying buildings, a central nave, and a number of stylized firepits that will burn throughout the week.

DRIFTWOOD STRUCTURES

driftwood2

The outermost houses will be constructed primarily of driftwood, and shall be intimate, providing a place to take shelter and stock in a close and personal space. As a metaphor, driftwood speaks to uncertainties and happenstance of multiple elements combining to form something entirely new

GLASS HOUSES

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The structures between the driftwood houses and the central nave will be constructed on a stepped platform of old doors that support a room walled in painted windows, similar to the lower level of last year’s Tasseograph. Visitors will be able to see out, but their vista will also be obstructed by the detailed painting on the windows themselves. These structures will also include a beautiful flame effect from the pinnacle of the structure.

CENTRAL NAVE

The central structure shall incorporate a multitude of materials, from adorned cardboard spires, stacked wooden spindles, stained glass windows, structural lumber, as well as a large chandelier overlooking a central shrine that will hold the majority of people’s offerings. The base of the structure at each corner will be constructed of flattened cars and baled steel, a modular materials created during the recycling process. These modular blocks serve both as a platform for offerings and as ballast for the structure itself, pinioning it to the playa. After the event, these modular steel blocks-cum-vestibules will be sent to the foundry to make new steel. The spacious central chamber will reach up to another level that will support a number of spires constructed of refashioned cardboard, wooden spindles, organically reformed sheet metal, etc. Four of these spires will also include flame effects. A huge central spire shall reach celestially upwards and will be viewable from below, funneling the community’s prayers and offerings towards the heavens.