Very recently links have been posted to the zoomable image of Black Rock City. And I thought this was cool since it was the 05 event and the last one I had seen was pre-03. Then today _thegypsy posted the link in her journal again and mentioned finding her tent. This led into a 5 minute conversation between us during which I realized what I want to do next year (this in spite of the fact that I swore I would not do big art again).
So here it is...
Using 1 meter square single color fabric swatches, create a 100 meter by 100 meter image that is only visible from a plane or space. Imagine working on the first piece of art specifically designed to be photographed from space!
None of this is set in stone. I may not even do it if I can't get enough participation.
Here are some of my thoughts that I've brainstormed or just had appear in my head late at night:
- Putting the pieces on the ground to cut down on wind related issues. - Problem is that this will require something like 40,000 spikes.
- Make the whole thing a huge shade structure so that it can only be seen from above in total - wind is a huge problem here as is internal support.
- In order to reduce on site complexity have sections pre-sewn into 5m x 5m squares
- If gathered together in one place the material would occupy 10 cubic meters
- Need to see if they will take this photo again in 06.
- Get help creating a web site where people can sign up for a piece of the picture. Must produce a clickable grid showing which pieces are already spoken for. Take their contact info, verify email, email them the colors they sign up for.
- Raise the bar on community involvement by only providing 'infrastructure and organization' Each participant will supply their 'pixel'. This could involve 1/3rd of the population of BRC, but probably much less. Even 500 participants reduces the total number of pieces per person to 20.
- Infrastructure will consist of: perimeter fence and lighting, 400 stakes and 22,000 meters of twine to lay out grid, industrial staplers and 100,000 staples.
- Pixels will be stapled to the grid. Each participant will bring a piece 44 inches square which is a standard width for material and will leave enough spare for folding over the twine grid.
- Organization will consist of the above stated web site, binders to hold the information for on playa use. Each page will show a 10x10 grid with pertinent info in the square.
- Contact someone with a plane to take daily progress photos.
- Overbook pixels. Can always use extra pixels to replace those that might blow away or not actually make it to the playa.
- Plan to burn this, so material should be cotton.
- Cut into sections for easy transport to public burn platforms
- Line walk area after removal and drag a roller magnet to pick up loose staples.
The example photo below shows two 100x100 icons on the playa. I've estimated the correct size of the playa image based on the MAPS dome which is 60 feet across and is about 20 pixels across in this image. Neither of the icons shown are likely to be the one actually used at the event. I'll be taking suggestions and considering something that fits the theme.
and take with them to the store.
