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Buring Man (Before the Rain)

In 2023, I attended Burning Man for the third time, spanning from Monday, August 28, to Monday, September 4. This time, I was affiliated with two different camps: one located at the airport and another situated close to Center Camp. The reasons for this arrangement are quite lengthy, which I'll leave for another discussion.

During my stay at the airport, I prepaid for two meals daily at the canteen and was also required to help out in the kitchen for at least two meals. I was permitted to camp at the airport in exchange for assisting with some duties there. Although I’m a bit hazy on the specific regulations, I ended up serving two shifts of traffic management, each lasting four hours.

The second camp I was part of was named Jipangu, known for serving delicious green tea and sake. It was a cozy gathering of just nine people, located at a prime spot at Center and 10:00, right across from Center Camp and only two camps away from Artica, which offers ice for sale.

For the first four days of my experience, I frequently traversed between the two camps, either to grab my meals or fulfill my time commitments at the airport. Under ideal circumstances, the bike ride between the two locations takes around 15 minutes.

The airport area was quite an enjoyable and relaxing space to spend time in. Each morning, they provided complimentary coffee, always accompanied by a talented live keyboardist. In the afternoons, various entertainment options graced the stage, including my own magic performance on Tuesday. By around 4:30 PM, the bar opened its doors, serving generous portions of diverse drinks. Meals at the canteen initially started off spectacularly, though, as the week progressed, the food quality noticeably decreased. Throughout it all, I had ample opportunities to converse with affluent pilots and friends from the 99% wealth spectrum who accompanied them.

In contrast, my camp Jipangu was directly situated in the heart of what others described as the 'city' of Burning Man near the airport. Despite the tranquility of my camp, it was surrounded by a cacophony of sounds from all around. Thankfully, I remembered to pack ear protection, similar to what operators of heavy machinery use. I offered my assistance in serving green tea and sake, but due to low foot traffic, I wasn't needed much.

Outside of the airport, I utilized my bike to explore the Playa, which is where artists display their creations. I visited various camps I had formed friendships with during the 2022 Burn, taking part in various activities promoted in the guidebook. One of the highlights for me was visiting a camp where a friend had mentioned on Facebook that she had forgotten to bring a fan. I was glad to deliver one to her, along with a used New York license plate to add some flair to her New York Pizza-themed camp. She later remarked that I was among only two individuals who brought fans, and I was the sole person to deliver a rechargeable one. Wonderhussy Overall, my experience at Burning Man from the time I arrived until approximately 6 PM on Friday, right before the rain started, was incredibly positive. The weather was pleasant, my meals were satisfying, and I enjoyed myself thoroughly. I'll conclude by sharing some photographs taken just before the rain set in.

This picture captures a moment with fellow campmates as we headed to the Cacophony Society cocktail party. This is a formal gathering that has become a long-standing tradition at Burning Man. These days, it mainly serves as a reunion for veteran Burners, although I wouldn’t label myself as one yet.

campmates
Here I stand in front of an enormous structure made of water containers set within metal supports. Take note of the man kneeling at the top right of the picture; he gives you an idea of the scale of this installation.
huge_block_of_water
Naturally, I had to climb to the top of it. Here’s a snapshot of me at the summit (photo courtesy of Svetlana).
picture_of_me_on_the_top
For those who know me personally, it's well known that I enjoy wearing a monocle as a necklace. Imagine my surprise when I encountered a gentleman genuinely wearing one without any support! I’ve attempted to do the same but always find it slipping off my face. Initially, I suspected he might be Prussian military, given his spiky helmet, but he stated he belonged to a British Army special regiment I had never heard of. I did pixelate the lower part of his face as I discovered it was necessary to maintain the focus on the monocle in the image.
monocle
This camp featured a unique obstacle course intended for individuals in wheelchairs and on crutches. The aim was to illustrate the challenges faced in navigating simple barriers such as steps and curbs. It was strictly prohibited to allow your feet to touch the ground. If I may say so, not only did I complete it, but I recorded one of the best times.
obstacle_course
Here I am at the Barbie Death Camp. I’m still trying to figure out what this structure is actually meant to represent—perhaps a musical instrument or something that makes a clicking noise.
barbie_death_camp
Here I am at the Vulva Throne located in Center Camp. Last year, it was referred to as the Vagina Throne; however, after some anatomical clarifications, it seems the new name is more fitting. Later, I had the opportunity to meet the artist behind it after the rains—stay tuned for more details in an upcoming newsletter.
vulva_throne
Here I am on duty for road control. My primary responsibility was to ensure unauthorized vehicles stayed away from the airport while allowing approved ones for immediate passenger pick-up and drop-off only. If you ever wish to collect someone arriving at the airport, you'll need a Mutant Vehicle license plate, and the passenger must check in at the waiting area. Otherwise, you have to park by my guard station and walk in. Alisa Sokolov In the next newsletter, I'll continue from where I left off, sharing the events that unfolded after the rain began on Friday, September 1.
road_control_duty
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