Effigy
What is the Effigy?
In the tradition of Burning Man, the culmination of Apogaea is an effigy burn. The effigy can be anything you can imagine built out of burnable materials. In recent years, we’ve burned a Phoenix, a Squid, a Volcano, a free-form structure made up of smaller pieces decorated by the community, and an incredibly beautiful butterfly emerging from a chrysalis.
The effigy is a celebration of community. We help build it, gather around it, watch performances involving it, burn it, and dance to its warmth. There are no real parameters to the project except that it be of significant size and burnable. Something in line with the event theme is ideal but not required. Projects that involve the community on multiple levels are preferred.
If you are interested in building the effigy, please consider the following: The event population is expected to be over 1,000 men, women and children. Are you prepared to meet the masses as they venture out to see your work? Do you have safeguards in place for user “error”? Is your project protected from theft or damage? Are there any health hazards or danger to the environment? This includes fumes emitted during burning. Can it be properly lit at night until it is burned so no one damages it or injures themselves on it?
How do I apply to create the effigy?
The effigy is a special piece at Apogaea. Proposals are requested early in the planning process, typically December/January prior to the event. If multiple applications are received, the Art Committee will select one for the event. Even if your submission is not selected, there may be an opportunity to build, display, and even burn your piece. You can apply to create the effigy on CaFE in a similar way one applies for a regular Apogaea art grant here: http://apogaea.com/art-camps-things/art-grants/
There are special issues with the effigy:
Fire Wood: The effigy will receive a supply of fire wood to enhance the burn. The cost of this does not need to be included in the project budget.
Burn Ban Contingency Plan: In the event of a burn ban, it is possible that your piece will need to be disassembled, transported back to town, and stored. Apogaea may be able to assist with this, but please keep it in mind as you develop the plans for your project.