Created by Ben Chun and Eric Nguyen

The Design Process

The whole project started with some sketches that Eric did. We first imagined a shady, climbable structure that might be based on a dome. But we had no idea how to build it.

We made a model of a tensegrity-inspired structure but soon realized that the forces into the ground (nails into wood in our model) were far too high for stakes in the playa to support.

In a later computer model we envisioned the metal skeleton structure with a PVC frame over the top supporting large shade panels. We realized that these shade panels would create too much force for the PVC frame in the wind, so we decided to just create the metal skeleton and light it.

Construction and Assembly

The tree is made of new and recycled steel tubing. The tubing was cut with an oxy-fuel cutting torch and an angle grinder, and welded with a MIG welder. It is designed so that each branch comes off from the trunk and is flat in a plane. This makes it easier to transport.

Installations

For Burningman 2003, we designed light pods made from welded wire frames with fabric covers, and installed The Tree at the corner of Sacred and Authority at our theme camp, Monkey vs. Robot.

At Burningman 2004, The Tree was installed in the Brane Village (8:00 and Catharsis). At Burningman 2005, it became The Money Tree at the False Profit theme camp (4:30 and Esplanade). It returned in 2006 to the False Profit theme camp at 4:30 and Esplanade for our Tuesday Night Party.

For Priceless 2007, the tree was installed in a forest of biological trees for the first time. At Burningman 2007, Stephen and Mary hung their wooden lanterns from its branches.