Previously exhibited at Burning Man in 2010, Spire of Fire references the iconic structures of both metropolitan and ancient civilizations, recognizing them as focal points for civic life. Made of steel, this 48-foot tower is comprised of five modular sections, shaped like inverted pyramids. Each pyramid is a vessel for a Liquid Propane Gas (LPG) flame effect, which can be activated by the public. The fire effects create a dazzling shimmer on the rust patina of the pyramids‰Ûª outer surfaces, and stainless steel inner surfaces‰Ûª light deflectors, creating a brilliant, dramatic effect. The pressurized LP gas bounces off of the inner steel panels of each pyramid, creating an illusion of the whole pyramid being enveloped in bursts of fire. The flame effects of the piece were showcased at scheduled times, once a week.
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Aerial view of Spire of Fire, by local Reno artists Steve Atkins and Eric Smith

Photo by: Mark Hammon

Year: 2012

Image Caption: 

Previously exhibited at Burning Man in 2010, Spire of Fire references the iconic structures of both metropolitan and ancient civilizations, recognizing them as focal points for civic life. Made of steel, this 48-foot tower is comprised of five modular sections, shaped like inverted pyramids. Each pyramid is a vessel for a Liquid Propane Gas (LPG) flame effect, which can be activated by the public. The fire effects create a dazzling shimmer on the rust patina of the pyramids‰Ûª outer surfaces, and stainless steel inner surfaces‰Ûª light deflectors, creating a brilliant, dramatic effect. The pressurized LP gas bounces off of the inner steel panels of each pyramid, creating an illusion of the whole pyramid being enveloped in bursts of fire. The flame effects of the piece were showcased at scheduled times, once a week.

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