Burningman 2024 Recap
As most of you know, I attend Burning Man almost every year—this was my 13th burn, and by far, one of the best. Last year was the year of mud, which, while fun, came with its own set of challenges. Two years ago, it was all about the extreme heat and navigating the complexities of Covid. This year, though, started out with just a bit of rain and some very cool weather, which was the perfect way to kick things off.
Why attend Burning Man?
Many people ask why I keep going back year after year, even with the heat, the dust, and the endless packing and cleanup. Honestly, it’s because every time I return, I leave feeling more alive, connected, and creatively inspired than ever. There’s something about being surrounded by art you’ll never see anywhere else—the playa, that vast, dry lake bed, becomes an incredible canvas, and the monumental installations never cease to amaze me.
This year was especially meaningful for a few reasons:
First, the art. It’s always the centerpiece of my experience, and the pieces this year blew me away. Here are some of my favorites—but honestly, this is just a small fraction of what was there.
"Habitat" by Mark Rivera
This piece symbolizes coexisting in harmonious oneness inspired by neighborhoods around the world. It is a call to action encouraging people to engage in communities and foster a spirit of peace and cooperation. As you approach the piece sensors trigger the lighting and the sound of the heart beats along with the lights. In the background is Eileen our Peacock art car.
Details in the daylight of the piece... notice the balconies and the telephone poles... just brilliant. This piece captivated me like no other... and how he made all the veins with bent metal. I went back several times because I was so entranced with this piece.
"Zozobot" A manmade plaything pausing to study us and learn about humanity. This piece is a representation of the vulnerability of human creation and a reminder that what we produce is an extension of us and our ethical responsibility. When you look under his spyglass there is a kaledescope inside. His motto is "I learn from you" I loved the detail in this piece a mix of metal and wood. I loved the harlequinn painting on the metal and the way it was ripped to expose the wood. This creative group came out of new orleans.
Second, it’s the family aspect. I go with my nephew and brother-in-law, so it’s become a special family trip we cherish. And then, of course, it’s about the connections. Our camp had 15 people this year, and it was an amazing group—everyone working together to create a shared experience for others.
Lastly, I created my own art installation, the Aquaglow Lounge—an underwater world filled with glowing LED jellyfish. It was such a blast to bring it to life, and I’ve posted a video below so you can check it out.
https://youtu.be/rnT1d4Yb41w?si=7lYV0dVSvS5whSHB
Coming back from this experience is always a mix of emotions. I’m still carrying the warmth of those connections, the memories of dancing under the stars, and the joy of being part of something so vibrant. But now, I’m back in the "default world," feeling energized, inspired, and ready to share the magic of the playa with all of you.