The Transformative Power of a Simple “Yes”: My Journey at Burning Man
You never truly grasp the potential of a simple “yes” until you experience its ripple effect. As I stepped through the gates of Burning Man for the first time in 2017, with the dust swirling around my Timberland boots, I had no clue how profoundly my life was about to change. A timid young woman, unsure of where I fit in the world, I carried a passion for photography—self-taught and divinely inspired. All I wanted was to travel the globe and inspire others through storytelling. A friend’s generous gift of a ticket to the festival filled me with dread; I nearly turned it down, afraid that the overwhelming presence of a predominantly white, male crowd would swallow me whole. Yet, something compelled me to accept, and that moment ignited a transformation that continues to shape not only my life but the broader community as well.
My first year at Burning Man was everything people described and more—magical, overwhelming, and transformative. Returning from the desert, I realized the importance of embracing the unknown, recognizing that representation matters, and understanding that authentic stories resonate deeply.
Giving Voice to Black and Brown Burners
In 2018, I returned with a mission: to photograph and share the lived experiences of Black and Brown Burners. This initiative birthed the Black Burner Project, a storytelling endeavor committed to documenting our presence, altering narratives, and affirming that we, too, belong in this radical space of creativity, freedom, and self-expression. My goal was to inspire those who shared my skin tone to claim their space, dream audaciously, and recognize their worthiness in spaces filled with healing and joy.
The inaugural group photo for the Black Burner Project was more than just an image; it encapsulated a vision of unity and creativity. It was an emotive gathering—live artwork in its essence. A bystander’s acknowledgment of its power as “the most beautiful art piece” she’d seen on the playa resonated within me, affirming that documenting our community’s experiences could be just as transformative as any shimmering sculpture shaped from desert dust.
This initial experience propelled me into the realm of large-scale art. I hadn’t considered myself an artist until I created “Black! Asé” in 2022, a monumental photography installation showcasing portraits of Black Burners on the playa. It dramatically shifted my understanding of art’s influence—gathering, activating, and creating spaces to be fully felt rather than merely observed. Massive portraits of our community’s beauty stood tall against the desert backdrop, demanding acknowledgment and inviting deeper introspection.
Fast forward to this year—seven years later—where I found myself returning to the festival primarily for personal reasons. This was a newfound opportunity to witness the movement I had helped initiate without the obligations of leading builds or capturing moments through my lens. It was a time to play, explore, and reconnect with my own narrative after years of dedicated service to this community.
Witnessing the Movement of Black Art
What I observed was humbling and inspiring.
As I pedaled across the playa, I encountered stunning pieces of art created by Burners of Color, each one resonating with pride and cultural significance. Among my discoveries was Jen Reed’s captivating “Apple Core,” a monumental steel and rope sculpture that demanded reflection.
At the base of the Man, Zulu Heru’s “Whispers of Waste” mask towered over the landscape, evoking a sense of ancestral presence. This art reminded passersby of the artistic sophistication intertwined with African heritage. Zulu shared, “I’m working to break the stereotype that African masks are ‘primitive.’ They should be seen as fine art, as high art—and Burning Man is a stage to show that.”
Another striking piece, “Hey Queen,” crafted by Chelsey Hathman and Sterling Benefield, depicted a regal, unapologetic brown queen—a bold representation sparking empowerment among onlookers. Chelsey expressed her desire for inclusivity, aiming to ensure that Black and Brown voices are amplified in this space.
My journey led me to Gerry Laureus’s “Dispensing Influence,” a gigantic gumball machine that released circular Yoruba orishas, symbolizing divine spirits embodying nature and emotion. Unexpectedly, it awakened childhood memories while delivering profound cultural lineage.
The Artistic Heart of Burning Man
As I approached the Temple—the spiritual heart of Burning Man—Antwane Lee’s installation, “The Pillar of Po Tolo,” emerged amidst the dust, exemplifying the Afrofuturist vision interwoven throughout the festival’s offerings.
Each art piece I encountered evoked awe and pride, showcasing the brilliance and creativity of the Black community flourishing in this otherwise vast desert.
The landscape of Burning Man today reflects a notable evolution, transforming into a vibrant tapestry of Black-led art previously missing since my inaugural visit in 2017. Recognition of artists like Hank Willis Thomas and Marsha Reid paved the way for a movement that champions diverse narratives and shared emotional experiences.
The Ongoing Journey
This year reaffirmed my belief that the Black Burner Project extends far beyond personal fulfillment; it aims to cultivate collective magic and opportunity. We are entering a new phase focused on expansion—supporting and championing artists of color within the confines of Burning Man and beyond.
What began with a fearful “yes” in 2017 has now flourished into a movement. As artist Reed expressed, “I hope my project inspires others to dream freely, regardless of practicality. If you can envision it, it’s worth creating.”
The adventure continues as Burners across the globe come together to celebrate the diverse facets of creativity, resulting in a unified sense of belonging that ultimately propels us forward.
This article illustrates the incredible transformations and ongoing journeys of creativity at Burning Man, reinforcing the importance of representation and belonging for all communities involved.
