Burning Man 2023: ANIMALIA

“Sometimes, I am the beast in the darkness.” Heather Durham

The Black Rock Desert can appear at first glance to be lifeless—other than, of course, the silly humans who build a city there every summer—but this is far from the truth. Anyone familiar with the high desert knows that even out on a dry lakebed, the skies carry soaring ravens and buzzing insects, the fairy shrimp slumber below ground waiting for rain, and countless other species roam the transition zones where the playa edges into scrub and wetlands. But all that life pales in comparison to the endless menagerie of imagined animals we bring with us every time we come to Burning Man. The mythic beasts we carry with us in our minds—imagined or idealized, objects of fear or fancy, the animal spirits that populate our dreams and are so often brought to life on the playa: boars and horses and bears, wild geese and giant bison, snakes and squids and space whales, oh my! 

And, of course us humanimals, a species of ape noted for complex language, advanced tool use, and lording it over the rest of the biosphere like we’re special.

This year’s Burning Man theme will celebrate the animal world and our place in it—animals real and imagined, mythic and remembered—and explore the curious mental constructs that allow us to believe that imagined animals are real, real animals are imagined, and that somehow, despite all evidence to the contrary, mankind is somehow not part of the animal kingdom.  

“When animals behave like humans or when humans behave like animals, don’t be surprised, because in every animal there is a human and in every human there is an animal!” Mehmet Murat ildan

Animals that speak and act like humans inhabit a throughline in our collective mythology, from ancient myths and fairy tales to modern television. From the not-so-distant past, when the lines between men and animals and gods were not at all as certain as they may seem today, we inherit a body of fabulous characters like the wily talking hare Adanko of the Akan people, who survives in modern lore as the hero Bre’r Rabbit. Native American traditions are also rich with these sorts of creatures, from the trickster Coyote, sometimes portrayed as Man’s creator, to Raven who stole the sun, inadvertently giving humans the precious gift of fire. All around the world we see stories in this vein, about creatures with both human and non-human attributes, from the animal-headed gods of ancient Egypt to the Aztecs’ Tezcatlipoca, who took the form of a jaguar.

 Animal deities may in fact be the first gods of early humanity. There is evidence that our Neanderthal ancestors worshiped the ferocious cave bear, Ursus spelaeus, and the ancients of the Mediterranean region may have similarly deified the Auroch, the wild ancestor to modern cattle. It’s worth noting that the cow and the bear are still held to be sacred in several of the world’s religions, and that mythology is full of stories of humans hybridizing with formidable creatures such as these, often with unfortunate results—from the Minotaur of the Cretan labyrinth to the Island of Doctor Moreau.

 The notion of a human being and another animal being somehow entwined is also reflected in the traditions of tonalism, where every human has an animal counterpart to which their life is linked, determined at least in part by their date of birth. This belief remains evident in astrology, where being born under the sign of the lion, or the monkey, is thought to somehow shape one’s innate character. It’s also closely linked to the tradition of shape-shifting or therianthropy, which manifests around the world in forms as varied as the werewolves of Europe, the Mesoamerican nagual, the Korean kumiho, and any number of cinematic cat-people and bat-people.

 No less magical are the mental constructs that allow us to sort the entire animal world into a few tidy buckets like wild or domesticated, pets or pests. Our pets are of course the nearest and dearest; for many of us, they bring more love and joy into our lives than most of the humans we know. Feral animals, on the other hand, are the object of either fear and loathing, as with household pests, or idealized admiration at a distance, as with whales or any other poster-animal for the freedom and majesty of the Wild. This kind of uncritical love, often an abstraction built from watching nature documentaries, is generally beneficial, as it fuels conservation efforts, and only occasionally dangerous when taken too far, as in the sad case of the deluded bear-hugger chronicled in the Herzog film Grizzly Man. 

“A world that might have Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster is clearly superior to one that definitely does not.” Chris Van Allsburg

2.6 million living animal species have been identified, but that may be only a fraction of the total, which is estimated by some to be as high as seven million. Given that two-thirds of the known species are insects, that still leaves plenty of possibilities for new discoveries of larger lifeforms. Many humans are convinced that one of these will be the legendary sasquatch, or his Himalayan cousin the yeti. In a recent poll, 14% of Americans said they believe Bigfoot is real. That’s only half the number who believe in ETs, and a third of those who believe climate change is a hoax, but still, how can we talk about animal tropes and memes without considering cryptozoology?

 Bigfoot, the yeti, the Loch Ness monster—though they may or may not exist in the real world, they certainly have legs (or flippers) in the collective imagination. There’s something ineffably romantic about the notion that they haven’t been caught because they don’t want to be caught, and that at least some corners of the animal world may still hold secrets beyond our knowing.

 In our own little corner of the planet, Burners have developed a localized mythology of exotic animals. Consider the playa chicken, thought by some to be a knee-high dinosaur interrupted at some point in its evolution into a bird. There are tales of talking bunnies running in packs—some claim to have seen a billion of them at once—as well as the rabbit’s high-plains cousin the jackalope, whose existence has been documented primarily through taxidermy. Ancient Burners tell the legend of the Java Cow, who would appear at sunrise bearing fresh coffee (but, ironically, no milk). And trash pandas have been said to raid sleeping camps by night—not racoons but real pandas. Or at least wearing real panda onesies. 

 “The creatures outside looked from pig to man, and from man to pig, and from pig to man again; but already it was impossible to say which was which.” George Orwell, Animal Farm  

Of all the strange ideas that humans hold about the animal world, perhaps the strangest is the notion that humans are not in fact part of the animal world; that we have somehow evolved beyond our animality and now occupy a position apart from and superior to the rest. The myth of human exceptionalism has deep roots, fueled by thousands of years of religious cant, philosophical excuse-making, and scientific hoo-ha. The philosopher René Descartes, for instance, famously concluded that animals are mere automata, meat robots devoid of mind. The fact that he concluded humans may be essentially the same avoids the point: the otherness of animals runs deep in Western thought.

In The Third Chimpanzee, Jared Diamond argues that since human DNA is nearly 99% identical with that of chimpanzees and bonobos, any sensible alien scientist would quickly conclude that humans are members of the chimp family. He then proceeds to systematically dismantle all the sub-myths of human exceptionalism, from art-making and tool use to language and war-making. Argue all you want about which species you feel closer to (for my money it’s the fem-forward, free-love-loving bonobos) but nevertheless, the proof is in our genes: we are apes, descended from other apes, and before that from any number of hard-to-ignore-in-the-record lifeforms that walked, swam, crawled or slithered over the planet during the past few hundred million years. Sixty percent of human DNA, interestingly, is identical with that of an aquatic animal called the acorn worm, and fifty percent is the same as a housefly’s. We’re all made from the same funky starstuff, as Carl Sagan might have said, and we’re all part of a staggeringly vast web of life.

So why, then, do so many of us live in a make-believe world where humans are somehow apart from and superior to the rest of the animals in the zoo? It’s worth pondering, especially as humankind continues to make sport out of casually destroying complex ecosystems that sustain us all. The ultimate fate of the Anthropocene age may depend less on some hail-Mary sci-fi Singularity play than on our species collectively pulling our heads out into the (increasingly bright) sunlight and embracing the fact that we live in a world that is bigger than us, and acknowledging that we are part of a system rather than its masters. 

“Just as we give standing to the fictive entities of corporations and the protected entity of the human child, can we not give standing to the life forms on which we humans are utterly dependent? Oceanic phytoplankton that make our atmospheres; arboreal canopies that breathe in our CO2; the mycorrhizae that knit soil together—these entities need protocols of respect and relation by which we account for the more-than-human that makes life possible.” —Caroline A. Jones

Burning Man’s Principle of Immediacy speaks to embracing “a natural world exceeding human powers,” suggesting that our humanist values don’t and can’t tell the whole story of our culture. And taken as a whole, the 10 Principles can be seen as speaking to an attitude of compassion, cooperation and respect for all life. So if a unicorn mutant vehicle and a trash panda can be friends, does that not instill hope that all of us, regardless of our totem animals, food preferences, or pet allergies, can join paws in communal effort? 

This coming year in Black Rock City, or wherever you burn, you are invited to bring your imaginary menagerie with you. Not flesh-and-blood animals, thank you very much, but the creatures of spirit that give you confidence and courage, and that may express themselves in whatever art you choose to create. And, of course, to comport yourself like evolved humans, in the best sense of the word, with love and respect for our fellow creatures great and small. Even that pesky playa chicken. 

Burning Man’s annual Honoraria art grant program opens on October 17, 2022 with a call for Letters of Intent. Read all about it here. As always, art is welcome in Black Rock City regardless of theme. To find out more, have a look here at some of the many ways you can participate creatively.

 


Theme graphic by Tanner Boeger, featuring “El Pulpo Magnifico” by Duane Flatmo and Jerry Kunkel (Photo by Stephane Lanoux); “The Monumental Mammoth” by Tahoe Mack (Photo by Keith Aeschliman); “Feeding on Dreams” by Mark Dill (Photo by Dan Adams); “Be Art” by Jeff Schomberg (Photo by Mark Hammon); “Teddy Bear” by unknown artists (Photo by Nikolai Sander); “Spacecats Final Landing” by Ayda Keshtkar and the Adenium Collective (Photo by Perry Julien)

Appreciation to all the friends who helped inform this year’s theme, especially David Normal for imagining an Urban Bestiary and Elise Fried for invoking a Post-Human Anthropocene. 

About the author: Stuart Mangrum

Stuart Mangrum

Stuart is the director of Burning Man Project's Philosophical Center and host of the Burning Man LIVE podcast. Since his first Burn in 1993 he has participated as a theme camp organizer, artist, and year-round staff member contributing to the Project's communications, education, and storytelling efforts.

54 Comments on “Burning Man 2023: ANIMALIA

  • OMG the Humanity says:

    What an incredibly stupid theme. Have you no better ideas to celebrate or gather? Was the only issue you could all agree on was anthropomorphism and the issue of animals where animals are expressly forbidden? Have the furries somehow found out some detail about the Burning Man Board members to create enough leverage and have this theme created for 2023? Have you learned nothing from Terra Incognita and the stupidity of your theme choices?

    Please just end the “theme” program before you embarrass yourself any further.

    And please don’t delete this comment–let other voices from the community be heard in response to your choice.

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    • tonyr says:

      Wow, wow, all we have to say – ️️ let the good times roll . It’s a great idea – lots to work with

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    • Phinius Phogg says:

      I would suggest you not let that stuff you are making in your bath tub sit so long before you drink it. Secondly, it appears you don’t connect with that irreplaceable “steampunk creativity” that so beautifully drives “expression” in this Republic. It is what defines us.

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    • Paul says:

      I was thinking about participating with my rescue animal. I see that we are not welcome. Okay.

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  • Gabriela Tavares says:

    INSANE!

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  • Leslie Moyer says:

    Can’t wait to tap into the menagerie of wisdom from our animal counterparts and see what fantastical art concepts emerge. Great theme!

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  • Hierophant says:

    After the record-breaking heat and dust, it’s clearly time for the furries to dominate the playa.

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  • Laura says:

    What do I need to do or how can I attend to a burning man?

    Report comment

  • Mercedes Leemhuis Paz says:

    Hola quería comprar 2 entradas para asistir a vuestro festival gracias

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  • Isaac says:

    Great theme!!

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  • Animal Planet says:

    Animal Planet here.

    For unknown reasons, I feel pulled to this theme.

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  • Dustin says:

    Wagging enthusiastically

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  • Quentin Coyote says:

    The year of the Furries! :D

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    • Artifex Maximus says:

      I didn’t even think of that until I read your comment – this should be super-inspiring to the Furries; can’t wait to see what they come up with.

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  • Hans Burgos says:

    I want to be there next year.

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  • LadyBee says:

    This may be the most accessible theme since Floating World in 2002, which generated a plethora of mutant vehicles, art and costumes. I foresee a banner year ahead! Great theme. and thanks for using the word ” therianthropy.”

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  • Dr. Really? says:

    Pick up your Animalia poop!

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  • Adam Balm says:

    Awesome!!! This should bring out the ANIMAL in Attending Burners! Can’t wait!!

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  • Uncle Bullhorn says:

    Time to start working on my brine shrimp costume!

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  • Andres Yuhnke says:

    The future is vegan. <3

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  • Harlan Emil Gurber says:

    I just read earlier today the word “Humanimal”

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  • Anna says:

    I LOVE it! Because I LOVE animals!

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  • Omid says:

    So much wisdom and so much creativity to look forward to. ❤️

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  • Anthony S says:

    Beautiful way to be honest, loving and true to our nature as earthlings no matter what form.

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  • Camilo says:

    Amazing stuff

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  • Captn Wade says:

    Ok, fine. I have to be honest. I’m not gonna go gaga with “whatever they say is so cool!” like half of the other respondents on this page. I have one question…
    Were you guys really that out of ideas?
    All that fancy prose about “why” somebody decided on this particular theme was was just perfume on the pig.
    I think it’s lame.
    We can’t even bring animals to the Burn because it’s deadly for them and you made it the theme?
    Good job… ugh.

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  • Deborah says:

    Cant wait to experience this!

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  • @emanuelpizabr says:

    It’s about time we tune in to higher frequencies and overcome the Real Original Sin: The illusion of Separation.

    If we are the universe, this means that every animal that crosses our path is part of us and is also teaching us something.

    Through that lenses, our perception becomes nothing less than a filter that creates the exact dialogue we need to experience to grow.

    So make sure to create the mind space to appreciate that, fasten your seatbelt (or prepare for the journey in your own way) and get ready to touch the next level of councisousness.

    See you at BM2023.

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  • David Fulton says:

    Yes!!! Coincidentally or Serentypically I’m currently rereading- Becoming Animal by David Abram
    Animalistic: What a brilliant theme for a deeply sensitive and caring species of beingness. Thank you Stuart!

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  • Natalia Strahilova Petrova says:

    i love what you do! everything is pure magic! your festival is the best one in the world! this year’s theme is amazing!

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  • Jennifer herring says:

    This will my first attendence

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  • roberto dobbisano says:

    the playa chicken stole my fucking gas cap.

    no lie.

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  • Edward Sanchez says:

    Well then, with this theme I do hope to see Quill Hyde’s “The Council of Animals” out there again!

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    • Artifex Maximus says:

      Roger that – Quill is a really nice guy and a fine artist. I have been an admirer of his since I met him at his Penguin and Shackelton installation a few years ago.

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  • Gordon Gossage says:

    This is such a cool theme!!!!

    My power animal is Snake. I’ve shed my skin, many, many times through my life!!!

    So, if any reader is thinking of an artwork or mutant vehicle including a snake element please contact me at gordongossage@gmail.com

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  • Phillip K says:

    So, lots of animal onesies, lots of animal headgear, lots of stuffed animals, animal themed art cars, and animal themed art displays. I think we see this every year. However, hopefully this theme will encourage people to turn up their game and be super creative. Lots of cool opportunities to explore. Can’t wait to see your spotted zebranthers and big eared tortorillas.

    C ya on the playa.

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  • Vladimir Herrera (Wavy) says:

    How we see animals is primarily determined by our mental constructs or how we organize information in our minds. The next event might help us explore the power of our mental constructs and how they shape how we see the animal world. We will also explore how people view animals and how those views are shaped by their mental constructs. Finally, we will discuss how our mental constructs can be changed to change how we see animals.

    The way we see animals is primarily determined by our mental constructs. These are the ways that we organize information in our minds. Our mental constructs allow us to sort the animal world into categories, like wild or domesticated pets. They also let us see animals in different ways. For example, some people see their pets as their family’s nearest and dearest members. Others see feral animals as dangerous pests that should be avoided.

    Our experiences and beliefs shape our mental constructs. They are also influenced by the way we are raised and the cultures we are exposed to. For example, people who grew up in cultures that value independence and self-reliance are likelier to see animals as wild and untamed. On the other hand, people raised in cultures emphasizing cooperation and interdependence are more likely to see animals as domesticated pets.

    Our mental constructs can be changed. This means that we can change the way we see animals. One way to do this is to expose ourselves to new experiences and beliefs. Another way to change our mental constructs is to learn more about the animal world. This can be done by reading books, watching documentaries, or visiting zoos and nature reserves.

    No matter how we see animals, we must remember that they are living creatures with their own needs and wants. We should treat all animals with respect and compassion.

    But the lines we draw between these categories are entirely arbitrary and often more a reflection of our own attitudes than anything else. A case in point is the much-maligned rat. These creatures have been vilified throughout history, accused of everything from spreading disease to causing fires (the Great Fire of London was even blamed on a rat!). But rats are also highly intelligent, social creatures that bond closely with their mates and offspring. In fact, they make excellent pets.

    So this year at Burning Man, let’s celebrate all animals—the ones we love, the ones we hate, and all the shades in between. After all, we’re all animals ourselves. And who knows? Maybe this will be the year we finally learn to love the rats.

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  • Nedret Dassana Bambi Ozakyol says:

    Love this theme ..can’t wait to see the playa expressing various animal.themes..feeling their energies, recalling and being them .. there were alreday some art cars with this theme , some costimes. What a great invitation to feel i to our inner animals and expressing them.

    My playa name has always been Bambi… I m looking forward..)))

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  • Animal Lover says:

    I love the theme. However, I do have a concern. Will there be those whose costumes/displays celebrate the hunting of animals? After all, every single one of us (vegans included) have ancestors who hunted animals. Will costumes/displays of this nature be accepted? Or will the “anything goes we accept and respect everyone” ethos of the playa be abandoned by those who are opposed to hunting?
    Will hunting themed costumes/displays be subjected to verbal abuse and vandalism by those who are totally accepting of everyone as long as people think the way they do? I am not saying if I am a hunter or a vegan, could be I am or am not either one. I just know that many people across the political and social spectrum are very intolerant of those who do not share their beliefs so I see the potential for conflict. I hope I am wrong and everyone does their best to love and be kind to one another.

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    • tonyr says:

      I am sure people will take it with the fun it is intended on – regardless of which side one my feel they assimilate with – after all it’s burning man and we all know it’s burning man. It would be like saying no apex type animals either ? It’s all in good fun and folks need to stop – take a few deep breaths and respect individuality of others. No cooky cutter people…

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  • Alesia says:

    Hi, where will the event take place???? It what month ? Date?

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  • Mike says:

    Let’s call it “Huanima”

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  • M. says:

    New to this, I really would love to see this. I live in Northern Calif. . need info-please.

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    • Wildernessgoat says:

      Hey M… II’ll tell ya all that I’ve discovered over many seasons of burning by chatting w ya…
      Look @ all the BM blogs & sites they have up as an organization. Start connecting w burners in your area . Look for the wood ‘Burning Man regionals’ Reply here or send a mail ;
      mishameng2@gmail.com
      Cheers ! All so amazing

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  • Yusif says:

    A world full of stories that evolve and change as a result of time and distance from society to society or from generation to another generation.

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  • Leola T says:

    Awesome Theme! Looking forward to seeing more information about this!

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  • Pat Pkok says:

    We are getting ready to create animal outfits for burners for 2023.

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  • Ken Newcamp says:

    I am ready to come to the greatest city to let my animal instinct out!

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