It all began with a marriage proposal. For the bride and groom, Burning Man was the obvious choice for their wedding ceremony. To show their appreciation for the years of gifts the playa has provided, they are building this art installation for the citizens of Black Rock City. They have chosen to create a tree, but build it out of scrap metal. This contradiction represents the combination of two opposite elements, organic plant life and non-organic metal. The uniting of opposite forces is inevitable in the coming together of persons. As the saying goes, opposites attract. Akin to a marriage, a tree can provide protection, nourishment and a safe space to grow and play.
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Ferrous Flora by John and Shawna Gardner

Photo by: Dan Adams

Year: 2023

Image Caption: 

It all began with a marriage proposal. For the bride and groom, Burning Man was the obvious choice for their wedding ceremony. To show their appreciation for the years of gifts the playa has provided, they are building this art installation for the citizens of Black Rock City. They have chosen to create a tree, but build it out of scrap metal. This contradiction represents the combination of two opposite elements, organic plant life and non-organic metal. The uniting of opposite forces is inevitable in the coming together of persons. As the saying goes, opposites attract. Akin to a marriage, a tree can provide protection, nourishment and a safe space to grow and play.

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