This year’s edition of Burning Man will feature a fully functional art installation in the form of a disco ball. While the massive structure named the ORB looks simple, it’s actually quite complex in it’s design.
Danish architects Bjarke Ingels and Jacob Lange are leading a group of fellow architects and artists to bring this amazing project to life. The massive structure at Burning Man 2018 will be 1:500,000 of the Earth’s surface with a diameter of just a hair under 84 feet. Additionally, an inclined steel mast (measuring at 105 ft long) will be supporting it.
The group’s initial Indigogo campaign raised funds for 30 tons of steel, 1000 hours of welding, in addition to the 1500 hours of sewing that has been put into making the sphere itself. Now, the organizers are seeking an additional $50,000 USD to complete the project. There are a few tiers to choose from, ranging from 10 postcards and engraved steel spheres in sizes S to XL.
The organiser’s vision of the ORB is fantastic. To quote the fundraiser page: “Visible from most of The Playa, it will help Burners navigate the desert and find way. At night, the ORB will blend entirely into its surroundings and become part of the desert. The ORB is a tribute to mother earth & human expression – designed to easily inflate and deflate, leaving no trace on the Playa.”
Keep up to date on all stages of the project via the Indiegogo campaign and/or their Facebook event page. The founders have posted an overview of what The Orb will look like in the middle of the landscape of Burning Man on their Vimeo page. Check it out below:
In the meantime, if you’re looking for another taste of Burning Man, the Renwick Gallery of Smithsonian American Art has a Burning Man exhibit up until January 21st/2019.
Will you be attending Burning Man 2018? What are your thoughts on the ORB project?
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