So, the winds and the lack of a shade structure got a bit in the way of everything I'd *like* to have seen happen at the Thingie Theme Camp at Burning Man; but overall, I'd say it was a success for a first year there.
The greatest success of the camp devoted to all things Neil Gaiman would have to have been the "Neil Museum". Original artwork and poetry by fans of Neil were tacked to posts and staked into the ground for people to meander through and admire. A couple of people marveled at the wood-burned image of Neil, or the 3-D image of Lord Morpheus (complete with helm). A pair of travelers posed with the camp banner, which was signed by Neil. One wandering soul even kissed a sketch of Death. Next year, we hope to set up new artwork, and at some statue-like pieces from various Neil-stories.
A "Lounge Area" was set up on milder days, for people to sit around in and relax, while admiring artwork. Originally, had we found a shade structure in time, this would have been a spot to tell stories. Plans to improve on this idea next year are already underway.
We also had a "Fortune Teller" in the camp at the peak (end) of the week of the burn. Her tent was, by far, the most inviting and impressive in the camp all week. Passersby had their 'fortunes of the day' read to them, as well as in-depth and insightful readings, if they chose.
Lastly, the part that was most affected by the wind, there was the "Faerie Market" portion of the camp. On the one day that the wind subsided, the market was set up. Bins of goodies and knick-knacks and tokens of every sort were opened up for people to sift through and grab at - and if we got nifty stuff in return, so much the better. Best barter of the day: Shiny, gold, retro-70's shoes. Next year, shade structures (or at least a wind barrier) will make this a greater staple and attraction of the camp.
Thingie Theme Camp Photos
These are photos of the Thingie Theme Camp itself. Some of the photos are
taken from inside the camp, looking out. And some of the photos just have pictures of
people in the camp.
Thingie Artwork Photos
These are images of some of the artwork that was posted in the Neil Museum.
Most of the artwork was printed out from jpegs sent in to me.
Periphery Photos
Death Guild was kind enough to host the Thingie Theme Camp. These are mostly
photos of stuff to do with Death Guild or the rest of Burning Man, that often greatly
affected our camp.