Spire of Fire

June 6, 2011
CONTACT:  Larry DeVincenzi
775.771.7004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 

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BURNING MAN ART INSTALLATION TO DISPLAY IN DOWNTOWN RENO

Black Rock Arts Foundation (BRAF) Civic Arts Program “Spire of Fire”

RENO, NV – The corner of Sierra Street and Island Ave will be transformed into a temporary interactive art installation, performance venue and community gathering spot.  Previously exhibited at Burning Man in 2010, Spire of Fire, by artists Steve Atkins and Eric Smith, is unique in its materials, (stainless steel and propane fueled fire) scale (48’ tall x 30’) and artistic vision.

“From the Axum Obelisk to the new Burj Khalifa sky scraper in Dubai, towers are built to draw attention. Using shape, texture, materials, and light, towers attract people from afar to serve as a space for assembly. The Spire of Fire, a 48-ft blend of steel, fire, and light, stands grand and high and is designed to reflect the evolution of modern metropolitan architecture.  Its sheer size and presence will capture attention, and at night the piece will come alive with brightly colored lights and bursts of rhythmic flame.” says artist Steve Atkins.

“This is the fourth Burning Man art installation to come to Reno through the collaboration of the Civic Art Program of the Black Rock Arts Foundation, the non-profit art organization of Burning Man, and The City of Reno Arts and Culture Commission’s grant program. Spire of Fire supports the mission of the Reno Arts program to involve its citizens in the community’s cultural life and encourage artistic excellence,” said Maria Partridge, Reno project liaison for BRAF and Advisory board member.

“We believe the exhibition of Spire of Fire during Artown will serve the community in many ways,” said Crimson Rose, Member Board of Directors, BRAF and Art Director for Burning Man.  “By enhancing civic space through the temporary transformation of an empty lot into an inviting art park and creating a creative gathering spot for Reno citizens with weekly performances and spectacular displays of fire and light providing entertainment and interactive possibilities that the community can enjoy for free.”

During Artown, fire dancers and spinners from Controlled Burn will entertain Tuesday evenings 8:00pm – 10:00pm. Hula Hoopers from Velocity movement and BoHo Hoops present “GET HOOPED” at Hoop Jams on Wednesday evenings from 7:00pm-8:30pm.  All levels and ages are welcome.  Hula hoops provided or bring your own!