converted boeing 747 lands at burning man in nevada's black rock desert

a converted boeing 747 has landed at burning man — the temporary metropolis erected annually in nevada’s black rock desert. an extensive program of large-scale, experiential art installations sited across the vast landscape are planned around the festival’s 2016 theme ‘da vinci’s workshop’.

the ‘747 project’ touches down in black rock city

for this edition of burning man — kicking off on august 28th and running until september 5, 2016 — big imagination foundation, a nonprofit organization that fuels innovative creative projects, has erected the ‘747 project’ after seven years in the making. marking the biggest art car in the history of burning man, the converted jumbo jet invites festival goers on an interactive and symbolic journey to transform their futures. a program of speakers, events and parties on board relate to the overarching to the theme of powerful dreams, purposeful destinations and big imaginations.

finishing touches are added to the installation at burning man 2016

with the theme of artistry and technical innovation in mind, big imagination and its volunteer team of more than 100 makers, creators, artists and engineers embarked on a crowdfunding campaign to help fund the ‘747 project’. using the money raised, the team gutted, reconstructed, extended, and reinforced the plane, while refurbishing the cockpit and installing new staircases. finally, the wing landing gear and upper half of the plane has been prepped for transport from the mojave desert, where it was built, to nevada — where both sections have been bolted together to create a massive rolling art experience.

a rendering illustrates the aspects of the art installation

to help extend the ‘747 project’ beyond burning man, big imagination is creating an online virtual reality experience that people can access in a variety ways, including using google cardboard. throughout the duration of the festival and beyond, the plane will serve as a venue, showcase, and incubator for music, art, live performances, experiences, and inspirational talks.

the giant jet has been transported to the burning man festival