Burning Man Decompression Party Los Angeles 2010: photos & report
Since I was speaking at the LA Decompression 2010 EcoSalon, we arrived bright and early–about 1:30. Even though the event started at noon, in true Burning Man fashion, most of us were struggling with wind and shade structures. There weren’t too many people around; most were working on their camps as well!
Soon people sauntered by the EcoSalon to enjoy some tea and conversation sprawled under canopies of fabric and on top of blankets and pillows. We passed around a mic and shared stories of our successes and our strategies. We asked questions and we proposed answers. People wandered in and out at will, but many people, like us, hung out most of the day.
The rock star was Mark Lakeman of Portland’s City Repair. He was inspiring and awesome and he had my husband and the audience hanging on every word. What I loved most was the way he presented in such a fashion that it felt like a conversation and that he respected everyone’s contribution.
The last presenter at the EcoSalon was Greg Wendt on “Sustainable Wealth.” Dora! who owns Wild Planet stopped by for a hug and settled down next to me to enjoy beverages and snacks; his soul was fed too by what Greg had to say. Here’s a photo of Greg pouring tea he brewed and brought to share while a small boy I know hoops behind him.
What was Environmental Studies 101 for me was enlightening words of wisdom hitting Dora!’s ears at the right time and will lead to us having conversations about business and the Triple Bottom Line.
Yay! Shift happens!
People who had never been to the playa were enthralled and enthused by the spectacle of LA Decompression 2010. Those of us who have been smiled, and nodded or shook our heads. Until you’ve been there, you really can’t imagine Black Rock City–the vast expanse of desert, the mountains, the dust, the wind…or the creativity.
While most people seemed to congregate around the music stages, a highlight for us was the interactive events, like the XyloVan (pictured above). What fun! We also enjoyed a 3D tent–they provided the glasses of course.
In all my years at Burning Man, I have to admit that I have yet to put on a pair of skates at Black Rock Roller Disco. You’d think this would have been the occasion with my son ready to roll at any time, but with a freshly broken toe, the best I could do was catch some pictures. In the night shot, the crowd is dancing to Michael Jackson’s “Thriller”– a sight you had to see to believe!
Lots to do, hear, and see on the 8 stages plus theme camps. Hmmn, we might just head up to SF Decom next weekend! Maybe they need an EcoSalon too.
Did you go to LA Decom? What were highlights for you? Are you going to SF or San Diego Decompression Parties?