Happy New Year!
On this last day of 2016, I figured I would post an update on where we have been, where we are, and some ideas in where I think we are going.
Where we have been
Unaverz started from the dust of 2012 and with the help of a fantastic crew, she has traveled the playa 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016.
In 2016 she was joined by her sister car Farfalle Gustose, the brainchild and baby of our primary welder Sheri Spellwoman. Our crew this year consisted of about 35 people from all over the world with diverse background and interests. More than half are women. About half are over 40. Only two have had previous build experience. From where I sit, we are a perfect Burning Man group of volunteers who join together to form a collective family. Unaverz is my favorite camp on the playa and I couldn’t be happier helping to make it all happen.
2016 was a fantastic year! Congratulations to our team 🙂
Where are are now
Both Unaverz and Farfalle are safely stored at Bridge Storage and Art Space in Richmond. The Farfalle Gustose butterflies live comfortably at Sheri’s and the Lobata art has been chopped up and put to rest after three successful years of educational fun. Our sound is all present and accounted for. Financially we have the resources to pay for storage and upkeep through 2017.
We end 2016 in high spirits.
Where are we going for 2017
2017 is shaping up to be a major year of transition. I am motivated to make the world a better place more now than ever. I want to create and build, but I am not convinced that Burning Man and/or Mutant Vehicles is where I want to spend my energy.
As I query our crew, many are excited to check out Symbiosis this year. Only a few are definitely returning to the playa. Quite a few people have spoken about creating new art for Unaverz but, as I have not specifically asked for submissions, I do not have a good read on the level of commitment or interest in building for 2017.
I do plan on completely rebuilding all of our speakers. Suffice to say, we have learned a lot about sound on the playa these last four years and I want to work with our fantastic sound people to create a new system that reflects our knowledge and commitment to pushing the art.
In closing
So, Happy New Year to one and all. As always, the Unaverz Crew is a place that welcomes all, where everyone can do anything they wish. We care that you are kind, always. It is my sincere hope that we can help make the world a better place by living our lives as we try to do on the playa – by being nice, thoughtful, helpful, enjoyable… considerate. May we spread more love and joy.
Here is to wishing everyone the best. May 2017 see you healthy and happy. There is A Better Way™.
