Ahhh....the burn. What can you say about the annual event held in Black Rock City (the third largest city in Nevada for one week of the year) known as "Burning Man" that hasn't already been said? Eighty thousand people gather in the desert heat for eight days to view incredible art, dance to the pounding beat of house music 24 hours a day and enjoy one of the worlds most bizarre, unique and enjoyable festivals. Larry Harvey, one of the two founding members of Burning Man passed away only months before this year's event and the burn was a particularly poignant one for many of the people who knew him. I had never met Larry, but his presence was felt very strongly through the many words posted about and for him in the Temple and the monument that was erected specifically in his honour. It was clear that those that knew him, and even those that didn't, were deeply affected by his passing. One thing was different for me this year. At many times I found myself torn between searching out and capturing the fabulous image opportunities that exist there and at the same time...not just putting the camera down, but putting it away entirely so that I could just enjoy myself and the event without being obligated to be a photographer of it. To that regard, I left my camera behind for more of this burn than the previous two combined. Did I miss golden image opportunities? Absolutely. Do I care? Not one bit. Sometimes you have to make "sacrifices" in order to have fun, and this year...at this event...I did just that. I love the burn. 2018 was only my third time there, but it will not be my last by any means. It is on my calendar now until the day my fingernails stop growing. When that day happens, make ashes of me and take them to the temple, then put me inside, sit back and watch it all go up in flames. And while you're at it....toast a drink to me and enjoy the event itself as well.
© Steve Tambosso - "The Wandering Fireman"
