Burning Chicagoans: Who are we?

The Burning Chicagoans have had an active presence at Burning Man for the past few years. In 2000, to recognize the Burning Man theme of 'the Body,' our theme camp was called 'Zonation,' and celebrated the five senses.  Visitors entered each of five pyramids, one for each sense, and enjoyed a sensual experience.  In 2001, in accord with the "life stages' theme, the Burning Chicagoans expanded and took on an ever more ambitious theme camp called 'Camp Conception/Womb with a View.' Visitors were welcomed to enter the 'womb' and through a series of participatory activities develop an entirely new identity with elements specific to each life stage. Those successfully gestated were then 'delivered' by camp staff and introduced to the world complete with a new identity and corresponding birth certificate. Camp Conception: Womb with a View was worthy of being an official BRC Passport Stamping Station serving many BRC citizens with our hearty mid-west hospitality with a smile.

CONTACT

Jon Groot
burningchicagoans2003@yahoo.com
Phone: 312-255-8880

Michigan connection : Beach Burns

The inspiration for this year's theme camp, 'Whistleworks and the Steam Whistle project' came from a long legacy of beach burns on the shores of Lake Michigan in southwestern Michigan. For over 20 years, three of the project's leaders have been producing outrageous events on the beach that incorporated the elements of fire, water, art and music. Each year, the team throws at least three events with participation of several hundred thrill-seekers. The combination of fearless fire-builders, artists from the Lakeside Studio's international Artist in Residence program, musicians and a perfect setting, has resulted in dozens of unforgettable events. The Steam Whistle project was one such event and had rave reviews.

Chicago connection : Events

Born from a group of friends calling themselves 'Super Friends', The Burning Chicagoans group has continued to grow and become increasingly cohesive through a series of events in Chicago as well as in Michigan. This is a coalition of energetic artists and event-producers.  Over the past year, there have been several Burning Chicagoan parties and events. The most recent was a screening and fundraising event at a local club of a video produced by one of our members.  This event also served as an unveiling of the Steam Whistle project. The crowd loved it!