Burning Man is more than just a festival in the Nevada desert. This radical arts event has the tendency to forge deep connections between its participants, the Burners. In recent years tickets have consistently sold out and increased in price, making the event more inaccessible than ever. To connect the Amsterdam Burner Community and let others experience its culture we started a regional event in 2012. Through an online brainstorm the community dubbed it BabyBurn.
The first two editions were held around Cafe Noorderlicht. It’s a radically inclusive celebration: No fences, no entrance fee, no budget, no spectators, only participants. People contribute in various ways. There are hoopers, musicians, fire artists, face painters, independent sound systems, hair dressers, free food stalls and workshops. So far it’s the only event in Holland that tries to comply with the 10 Burning Man principles.
Organizing happy chaos without a budget can be a challenge. It involves heavily improvised stage management and a lot of communication with the participants. But the positive atmosphere is contagious and you get to co-create with a lot of interesting artists.
Photos by: Arthur de Smidt
Artwork by Dadara
Team: Joris Hofmans, Nanna Lodewijkx, Micha de Haan