Build It Burn It workshop: a report

Last Thursday night I lugged a bunch of power tools and lumber scraps down to Backstreet Arts’ outdoor classroom and oversaw our first Build It Burn It workshop. For those just joining us, the workshop allowed the participants to build a small wooden “effigy"/sculpture to burn in their firepit at home on the Solstice (Dec 21).

Five people had signed up, but only three were able to come. That ended up being about as many as the space could handle, so all was well.

After a short intro on the concept (Burning Man, Alchemy) and some things to think about in their design thinking, I gave everyone a WASTE BOOK and got them started.

As might be expected, there were three widely different takes. More about that in a moment.

It was chilly, but we had warmth if we needed it. Also, Backstreet itself was open for warmth and tea.

Busy busy busy.

After a brief stab at my own effigy, I realized that my time would be better spent helping the artists realize their designs. After all, I can finish mine at home. That’s why my efforts don’t look very exciting.

But wait till you see it finished…

At the end of the night, we had three perfectly cromulent mini-effigies. I have photos of two of them; the third cleared out before I could get a photo.

Michael’s effigy veered sharply from his original thoughts and just grew like Topsy.

Sarah’s, on the other hand, was rigorous in its adherence to her design.

I’ll report back when everyone burns their effigies and sends me video.