Burning Man, the free-spirited art and culture festival that takes place in the Nevada desert each summer (August 28–September 6, 2016), has seen its fair share of jacked-up, decked-out vans and cars, even a makeshift boat over the years.
So what’s the next logical step? A jet plane of course. And, to be more specific, a re-purposed Boeing 747.
Big Imagination’s Boeing 747. Courtesy of Big Imagination.
It’s the brainchild of an organization known as Big Imagination, a non-profit that describes itself as an entity that “incubates brave new ideas and talent, supports transformative change makers, and reminds us that if we dream big, we can make the impossible possible.”
According to a description on its website, the plane—which has already been brought to the Burning Man site— is a 1985 Boeing that the team has turned into what is undoubtedly one of the “largest moving art experience ever created. Our goal is to create an immersive interactive experience that will have an impact on all those who come inside. We’re converting it from a mover of people and cargo to a mover of dreams.”
Big Imagination’s Boeing 747. Courtesy of Big Imagination.
“Artistically, the 747 represents our journey through life towards one’s future,” Big Imagination says. “Where is it that you want to go? How do you want to make a difference? These are the questions we want people to ponder.”
According to Venture Beat, the most expensive part of the project was transporting the jet 500 miles to the Burning Man site, for $240,000.
The organization is planning daily talks in its “First Class” lounge and visitors can climb upstairs to the upper deck for an expansive view of the desert vista. Musical performances are planned for the evenings. A 48,000-pound aircraft tug will pull the plane “across the Playa day and night.” Our personal favorites of the planned features include the “insecurity checkpoint” and a place where visitors can drop off “emotional baggage,” according to an informational video.
Big Imagination’s Boeing 747. Courtesy of Big Imagination.
Lest you be concerned that you’re not VIP enough to merit an invite, the Big Imagination website promises that everyone is invited, insisting that “we’re open to all, no velvet ropes.” For those who can’t make it to Burning Man in person, the group is creating an online virtual reality experience that anyone with a smart phone and cardboard can explore (currently in Beta).
Stay tuned, and fasten your seat belt.