Art on the Playa at Burning Man

Burning Man is many things, but among them is being an astonishing place to see art. Huge art, tiny art. It's true what they say - it is impossible to see all the art an any Burning Man event.

The art isn't limited to physical objects. One of the Principals of the Burning Man experience is Participation, and almost everyone participates rather than just spectating.

At Every Burning Man there is a Man - a giant wooden effigy. The Man is burned on Saturday night, in a communal recognition of release and renewal.

The theme of 2025 Burning Man was "Tomorrow Today" and the design of the Man Pavillion was “The World Fair of Unity" and is described as follows:

"By Puerto Rican artist Mark Rivera, “The World Fair of Unity” gathers citizens from around the world to celebrate creativity, diversity, and shared humanity. This pavilion is a hub of expression, a vibrant space for performances, art exhibitions, and the exchange of ideas."

From toes to the top of head, the Man is 38’ tall

Including the Man Pavilion, the entire structure is 70’ tall

15 artworks are placed within and around the Man Pavilion

In addition to the Man, Burning Man always has a Temple, which is a space of honor, memory, and contemplation. More on the Temple in a future post.

But everywhere you look at Burning Man, there is art, especially on the playa at the center of the City.

At night, the art transforms. With no street lights, the only light comes from the art, the art cars, the illuminated bicycles, and the illuminated people.

And The Rusty Iris was part of the art!