A year later I return to comment again. This year it was my art that was vandalized. As a decade long burner this was very difficult for me. Your video has helped with processing it all. Thank you. And, yes, broken crayons still color.
I'm not one for words, but I couldn't help say something when I happened upon your two video's this morning. As a woodworker, I watched you build this magnificent structure. I saw the effort and time in just the segments of video you provided. I saw the love and painstaking effort you put into this piece and it made me well up with sense of awe and respect. I'm not an artist, I don't have a creative side, my mind works in structure and calculations; when I saw the aftermath of your art being vandalized I couldn't understand it. I'm sure you cant either, I see this as something akin to murder, because surely the person who did this had to realize how much of your heart and soul went into making it. I wish I had seen it in person. Truly magnificent, thank you for having a dream.
Malcolm is right, this piece was broken by someone who was himself broken. You are projecting rational thoughts on someone with an irrational mind. I can't believe that people who destroy art understand anything that goes into it's creation. They merely see structure and order and want only chaos. They see creation and, because they cannot validate their existence by making, try to do so by destroying.
I'm not an artist either - but don't ever sell yourself short. You don't have to make enormous sculptures to be creative. Try something creative. Grab a block of wood and a knife at the craft store, or a "Juggling for the complete Klutz" kit. Or a harmonica and one of David Harp's books. Anything - you may be surprised at how well you do, or even how much you enjoy doing it poorly. I have a modest business making and selling items at craft fairs. It involves skill that I learned and practiced. I wasn't born knowing how to do it. And at every show, people tell me "I could never do something like that" and then pay me $50 for something that I make for $10 in my spare time. And I always think " and you never WILL learn how to do something like that with that attitude" while smiling and saying "Thank you". But I let myself be told by other people for 20 years how I couldn't do anything right - and I started believing them. Until I met a guy who just said "Do you think I was born knowing how to do this? Just try it - you're better at it than you think." Derek - just try it - you're better at it than you think.
Your piece of art touched many people. The effort you poured into it was not lost, wasted, or otherwise squandered. The person that encountered your art and decided to trash it in fact only made your piece more valuable and thought provoking! To know you surrendered and graciously added your art to be part of the burning man itself is a selfless act of kindness and forgiveness given to all to see! Your pice was beautiful on my tablet and I can only imagine how awesome it was to touch and see in solid form! Thank you for sharing your passion, art, story, and time with me, us, and the world! P.s. I am an accomplished Wood Smith myself and as I watched the first video I was helping you set the clamps, bands, and all. It was exhausting to watch your efforts! Thank you again!!
It was one of our first days at the Burn this year, and my friend and I sat under this piece for what felt like hours talking about the awe of it, and then, perhaps feeling "big" in our perspectives, talked about life, our challenges, and our dreams. Thank you father/son collaboration for your immensely beautiful gift. And thank you for letting us know what happened. As you testified to, there was a lot of exploitation at burning man this year. Your story helps provide evidence of it that can serve as fodder for those who want to help nourish and protect the true spirit of the playa.
Oh yeah, Samual, because rich entitled fuckheads would never destroy art because they're too fucking selfish to appreciate the work and sacrifice of someone else. Fucking moron.
you couldnt but help talk about yourself... pretentious burning man devote you are. I will ban people like you from attending BM 2019... i have given orders to keep pretentious weatlhy women and riff-raff from entering.
Thank you for sharing your story. After seven years at the Burn I'm still trying to figure it out myself. So much beauty and art, yet so much debauchery and disregard. The conclusion of your experience does add to my overall understanding of such a get together. I'm glad you contributed such an amazing piece of work and are thoughtful enough to except its destruction. I appreciate you.
Malcolm, Thank you so much for making this beautiful piece. As a woodworker and a burner I sincerely appreciate the craftsmanship and your dedication to bringing that craftsmanship to the playa. I am heartbroken with you about the damage to your work during the event but please know that so many people appreciate and enjoyed your work. I can imagine that your experience this year puts a damper on your enthusiasm for bringing work to Black Rock City but I hope you also know that the vast majority of participants were impressed, moved and awed by your work. Thank you so much for sharing both of these videos. And Ioved the father son collaboration. Please consider making more videos, the youtube community of makers and woodworkers is impressive and I think you would have a lot to contribute. Best of luck.
Your art is moving and your humanity is gigantic. I am a woodworking/woodturner and I am overwhelmed by the vision and execution of your art.Thank you so much for sharing both parts of your journey with us. Your work makes the world a better place. Best regard, Keith
At the very least you have physical proof what you did happened. And now it’s a piece of the burning man history and I guarantee people will talk about it for ages as one of the most beautifully crafted piece that’s ever been. Love sir, it’s what it’s all about and why you did so much. To show all your love and your willing to show what passion truly is. I hope you heal from this travesty.
Your love, patience and understanding is incredible. Your art piece was perfect and it was perfect "semi-fragile". This is beyond sad and unbelievable to me. I have not gotten to where you are in the love evolution process. I don't care what this person has experienced, I would like to know who it is and find him/her/them. They would never be able to do this to any other thing or being in this world again. What hurts me the most in this world is when a gentle heart like yours has to question ANYTHING. I hope this awful person's doing doesn't change you or take anything from you. I hope that the love you feel from the rest of us erases whatever sadness may still be there and most of all I hope, that you and your son will create together again and it would be my honor to contribute when you do. Sending love.
This brought me to tears. 😢 Don't stop what you're doing. For every disrespectful, uncaring, & destructive person - there are 5-10 more who not only appreciate your art, but empathize with your hard work & dedication, and can also walk away from your artistry with a lesson.. a feeling.. a change of heart.. a drive.. or even a new purpose! I for one think that the world needs you to keep on keeping on. God bless you. 💛💜💙💚
I was about to say the very same thing!! This is art and love on a whole different level. I wish I had seen it, embraced it and appreciated it. I imagine 100s-1000s of burners sat and contemplated your art, loved it and moved on before the one bad seed came along. Even in unintended pieces, your art speaks volumes.
I watched your videos and as a woodworker I was in "aawwww". Left with no words other than "WOW" as I watched it being made. What a craftsman you are !! Then the second video, I was madder than I don't know what when I saw the broken pieces on the ground ! However, as you spoke so gently about the one that broke it, Then you went one step further and put your broken "peace sign" upon the ground for others at the event. And you thought of the man who lost his life to say a few words for him. You put me in tears . We should all be so humbled as you . God has blessed you Mr.Tibbitts with many more blessing to come. Thank you for telling your story, we all can learn from this one.
"Would climbing walls help so people could have their urge to climb satisfied?" NO, you don't owe anybody anything. People destroy things because they can--not because they need to. They are not puppies who need to be given something to chew on so that they do not chew up your prized possessions. These are people who have never made something their entire life--nor made anything of their life. They break things because they, themselves, are broken--and you cannot fix them--nor is it your responsibility to do so.
Quite true. if these people who destroy had vision and made art, it would have meaning to them, causing to appreciate the vision and work of others, and show the appropriate respect, introspection and even critique. Sad, but creatives must carry on.
So Mark what ought the community (e.g. Government) do with these people who you claim can't be "fixed". This is where The potential for further evil may emerge.
Maclom, pre-event, camp Fer Sherbert stopped by your piece as you were building it. We came with news of rumors and handmade treats! Everyone in our group was so inspired by your piece, as well as by you as an individual. Thank you for your kind energy. Thank you for all your hard work. I hope you keep dreaming big dreams and that the universe comes to answer them.
Your attitude towards this set back sets a great example of resilience and true passion. Being a beginner myself, I was truly inspired by watching the creation of this piece. The way the pieces were crafted and fitted together changed my perception on how one can make such nuanced yet natural thing.
So so sad. I cried as I watched in awe as you labored to create such an expression of love and magic. So my heart cried to see your art in leaves. But as I listen to you reflect on the events and how there is meaning in every moment that we all exist we all matter even if in that moment all we see is ourselves, someone else maybe experiencing themselves too. Instantly the pain reaches across and connects us to each other and all of a sudden empathy humbles and recenters us and brings us back to our raw state our purest and most simplest state of insignificance and gratitude. Thank you so much for all that you are Mr. Tibbetts!!
So very sorry to learn that your artwork was extensively damaged. When I first saw your heading "Heartbreak at Burning Man" I thought that maybe some one had stolen one of your art pieces, like the beautiful Peace symbol. As this video progressed I recognized that all of your hard work was for nought. The person(s) who did this chose not even leave it up for others to enjoy until the last day. As I have viewed numerous videos of Burning Man over the years I have often wondered why more of the artwork is not damaged. Your circumstances are living proof that a butt head is born every minute. Your final comment about the sign "Broken Crayons Still Color" speaks volumes about the type of person that you are. Malcolm, Thank you for what you did to make Burning Man a more enjoyable place and thank you for sharing your thoughts with us.
This is a very moving video Malcolm. Thanks so much for sharing the images and your thoughts so vividly. Despite the emotional pain that is even plain to hear in your voice, I am especially moved by your genuine selflessness and focus on the greater picture and message. Though this tragedy may well be a reflection of the troubling times that our society is now living, as clearly summarized on one of the photos left behind by an admirer of your art, I too firmly believe that "we ARE better than this". While granted it's easy for me to say, please do not let this incident discourage you from producing further woodturning masterpieces for all of us to enjoy. And most of all, please keep that ever-positive, generous and unique role-model spirit of yours alive and untarnished.
I want to thank you for bringing your beautiful art to Burning Man. My friends and I stopped there and marveled at the gorgeous work and were even puzzled yo understand how the wood fit together on one of the pieces. I am so sorry that someone destroyed it. I am heartened by the journey you had after that. Broken crayons still color. Hopefully the broken crayon that destroyed your piece has found better ways to color.
Mr. Tibbetts, I am a Woodturner who has been inspired by your work. You are a great artist and there is nothing anyone can do to change that. Thank you for your contribution to the woodworking community.
Gratitude to you for such a beautiful piece of art and frankly, a very hard to watch film. I cannot fathom how someone could accord such disrespect. While I do understand radical self-expression, there is also such a thing as common decency. Yes, broken crayons still color and perhaps this film will reach the people responsible.
Thank you for bringing art to Burning Man. I saw your piece early in the week and appreciated its beauty and craftsmanship. Please don't let the actions of a few discourage you.
Malcolm! I just watched both videos and I'm speechless. I had known about the damage but the videos add a heartbreaking dimension. The amount of work, skill, and dedication that went into this work is beyond imagination. You are an inspiration.
Malcolm, I have come to The Generator to work on Playa art the last couple summers, and I was in awe when I saw the geometric wood components hanging over Andy’s space there in the months before the Burn. They inspired me as I did the repair and maintenance to prep a piece created by a friend of mine. It also has taken a lot of work and suffered some damage over several Burns, though less than yours, by the minority of stupid yahoos who don’t seem to know a thing about respect for the amount of time, effort, cost, and love for community that goes into the creation of these pieces. I want you to know that you touched me and thousands of others with your work despite what happened. I finally got to see how the whole structure fit together during build week as it went up. I and so many others did enjoy it in its integrity. I came upon all the broken pieces the next day after the destruction and helped the gentlemen taking them down and loading them on the truck, and I, too, was heartbroken for you and Andy. I’ve had a lot of personal trauma over the last few years due to a few selfish and careless individuals in the world outside of BM, too, and it does hurt and leave scars wherever it happens. Please keep on, though. Your work was and is *so* appreciated. We have to do our best not to become cynical. I believe there are many more people that want to create and share than to take and destroy. I don’t think Burning Man would be what it is if the latter were the case, or that there would be hope for the world at large. So, thank you. Also, I suspect you really enjoyed creating this with your son, a true mensch if I’ve ever known one. “…We must have the stubbornness to accept our gladness in the ruthless furnace of this world.” -Jack Gilbert
From what I've heard from friends that have gone to Burning Man and things that have happened there I have no desire to ever go there myself. I've also heard that theft is a big thing at Burning Man.
i was thinking the same thing. .. everything has to be made psycho and man-child proof. one of the best parks that i have been to had an outdoor gym(with everything an indoor gym would have that isn't electric) and the entire thing was bolted to the cement, completely child proof and pretty much indestructible. No piece could be taken out or removed. It still remains today. The other amazing place that i know was a giant playcastle big enough for adults to have fun, but completely made of wood. sad to say that the wooden castle was burnt down and no longer exists... 😕. if you are building an outdoor thing meant to be seen by thousands or more people, you know there will always be THOSE people. it is just a percentage thing. it isn't like everyone is out to get you or something. There will just ALWAYS be those people in a human population, people who destroy things, hurt things, even kill things. It is smart to build anything public knowing this. make it indestructible, flame proof, whatever is necessary to withstand psychos, man-children, drunks, people on who knows what.. etc. this is burning man... drunks and messed up people will be everywhere.
I watched through both videos and the first video shows your love and passion for what you do, and it's something that I could never in my life even comprehend or imagine. I think people don't always realize how much work goes into things around us. I'm sorry that someone destroyed your installation, I'm glad you found some peace in the aftermath. Keep making your art.
You have my condolences. Thank you for sharing this story. It inspires in many ways. The physical remnants of your art is gone. Thankfully, you remain.
Beautiful work. I was heart broken just watching. Being a woodworker I understand the hours and hours you have put into the project- although I have never taken on anything 1/10 that scale. The project- and the video its self- is beautiful and awe inspiring. Well done and keep coloring.
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. My wife and I very much enjoyed watching your build process and completely comprehend the hours of love that went into your piece. As a woodworker/artist I hope to one day be able to bring a piece of me to Burning Man. Thanks again to you and your sons work.
Malcom, It was great getting to make your acquaintance this year. I feel exceptionally fortunate to be someone who got to enjoy your gift, without vandalism, in it's entirety. Thank you for all you have done and bringing such a fine piece of artwork to such a harsh environment...to share with so many.
Beautiful piece, I would have liked to see it in person. I am very sorry it was destroyed. Unfortunately as time moves on people are becoming more angry, self-entitled, narcissistic and they do whatever they please with no regard how their actions effect anyone. I have had a piece damaged in a show & a piece dissappear from a show. At least your damage can be explained as people under the influence do bizarre things, but it's still not right. It was fitting that you placed the pieces within the burns. I hope you still will create for big events, just remember to build for crazy bad adhd kids full of sugar & red dye, only instead it's bad adults taking lots of drugs.
Thank you for your contribution to the wonderful art at Burning Man this year. I don't know if it helps, but perhaps in some unexpected way, what happened allowed your art to touch more hearts in a deeper way. As with years past, I spent many hours volunteering as a Temple Guardian. And although I never had the joy of happening across your tripod, I witnessed first-hand many times, watching how many people were visibly touched and comforted by your Peace sign lying there at the Temple. Know this: YOUR HARD WORK DID SO MUCH GOOD THERE AND HELPED SO MANY. Vandalism is definitely on the rise on the playa. Perhaps we need volunteer "Art Guardians" to help ensure that participants and art are both safe and secure.
I just watched this clip. I have to say, listening to your story, I think you are the most resilient and considerate person I've seen in a long time. In the face of so much loss, you accepted others and their problems over your own heartbreaking experience. You're somewhat of a hero in my mind!
Not that surprising this happened. You get a huge mob of "enlightened" people together, add in a bunch of drugs, and what do you expect? As a woodworker, I sure can appreciate the incredible work and talent you put into this piece, but Burning Man is the last place I'd ever consider attending, let alone displaying such a valuable work. Anarchy.
Fish, is there any place where semi-fragile art can be displayed? Regarding vandalism, it's the responsibility of those that don't to educate those that do. If my story helps to educate a few of those that might, then all is not lost.
I missed your piece on the playa, but I'm immensely grateful that you made and brought it. Don't let that heartbreak deter you from coming again. I would have loved to do something like this with my dad. When you feel down about this sad event, take the time to weigh all the good your creative efforts have inspired in others and watch the scales tip the way they are supposed to in spite of everything. Hope to see you out there next year!
The saddest part is that the artist ponders whether rock climbing walls would have prevented the destruction. How very Progressive, maybe that's how government would solve it. Our cultural and behavioral decay is rooted in loose parenting and lack of accountability. I don't know if America will rebound.
mickvk I want to say that America will rebound but only after the forebears of recent generations stop supporting the stupidity that is running rampant.
It's those things perhaps, but more so it's the entire countries unearned and undeserved sense of entitlement. We're American god damn it! We're the world's wet dream of an amazing existence on this planet, or so we've allowed ourselves to be lulled stupidly into believing. And when we don't get our way we throw a tantrum and lay blame on every other race, creed, country, religion, we can summon up to be our whipping boy du jour. And when that fails to pacify us, we find ourselves being purposely yet slyly divided by those we elect to lead us and get drawn into attacking each other while those same leaders are stealing what little of our precious and once sacred Babylon remains for us out the back door. Perhaps it's what's deserved, we don't truly value or cherish its rare specialness despite all our grandstanding and lip service we offer ad nauseum. Cause if we did we wouldn't be focusing so misdirected towards the respect we pay or choose not to pay as a form of protest to a simple rectangle of cloth with some stars or stripes on it. We would instead be demanding justice from and for our cancerous government, and we would stop buying into the cheap lies that the traitorous and dangerous men we have stupidly decided to believe in and elected to safe guard such an important institution. All those nice good paying blue collar lifelong union jobs that our grandparents and parents had during the second half of the last century are NEVER COMING BACK! It's time to let go of that anger and to stop allowing criminal snake oil salesmen to con us into believing they can or will. Cause they are just using that as a trinket to steal our trust so we can give them the keys to the kingdom and think they will safeguard it as they have volunteered to do, when in reality they have used that trust to rob the kingdom blind. Americans think they are owed the world, and the truth is they already have it. We are 4% of the world's population... 4 percent.. And yet we consume 25% of the world's energy... How long is that sustainable?? And for what it's worth this art piece is stunning especially seeing how much craft care and time went into its creation. And the senseless violence enacted upon it indeed heartbreaking but so too is the loss of much of most of the resources used in creating it as well as the resources that make up the art itself... All that beautiful redwood and the glue which likely isn't the cleanest burning substance around all gone up in smoke... I'm sorry to the artist for such a loss and I'm sorry to future generations for such a waste of precious resources in the process...
Lol. You know, I really appreciate the work and heart that went into this installation. But to sit here and tell us how it's Americans that are entitled? Don't you know that every bankrupt country in Europe is so because of entitlement programs? You do realize manufacturing jobs have INCREASED to their highest level since 2009? Did you even consider the enormous amount of resources and energy needed to create this art, and for what? So a bunch of entitled regressives can swing from it while blown out of their minds? Ridiculous. Edit, I reread and say you mention the resources. This isn't the want or need of "Americans". It's the wants of a small group of people.
mickvk you hit the nail on the head. Man abandons God in favor of intellectual pursuits then tries to create spirituality out of feelings and expression. Well this is what happens, the decay of morals and mankind because man has no one to account to.
You and your son and so beautiful and talented. While part 1 of your story is empowering and part 2 is heartbreaking, please remember not the loss, but all the love, support, and inspiration your story has created--both at the event and after! Even here, online, where some magic is lost from the experience, there's so many video views, articles, and showings of support. I was brought to this story from my campmates, who shared part 1 on Facebook: "This is a video of the creation of my favorite art installation at Burning Man this year. I was fortunate to be able to talk to Malcolm about his process in building this, and even more impressed now, seeing exactly how it was done. It was his second burn, and was inspired to build this after attending the year before. He started last November... and seeing the scale of what he created in that time was hard to comprehend. I'm grateful for the lessons taken away from this man. Keep learning. Keep building. Stay inspired forever... and share." To let go is to give. To give is to share...
Sad that so much time, effort, skill and love goes into a project and can be shot down in just a moment. I was amazed watching the process of putting it all together and hope that this hasn’t discouraged you too much in your fellow man. Some of us are incredibly appreciative of what you’ve created.
Malcolm, It was a honor to meet you under this piece and talk to you about how you made it on your lathe. It was obvious that you took great pride in your art and loved sharing not only the piece itself, but the description of the artistry behind it. Thank you for being there and making my burn a better experience.
Thank you for building such a beautiful piece. I'm sorry that the actions of a few continually bring heartache to the many of us who truly appreciate art and the artists that create it.
Just my two cents; Fair warning kinda long and rambley... The emotionally devastated people looking for solace and artistically adventurous people seeking freedom come together to create beautiful places like burning man. Unfortunately the fire of love that burns bright in these places attracts empty folks who have been told their whole life that how much money they have or how popular they are is their only worth. Who, seeing that beacon forged upon a real connection between humans, are trained to think "Party time!" Even still, I'm sure that deep down they would do anything to feel like they are a part of that love and creativity. Just on the wrong path. I wish the "drug fueled" the best of luck in finding themselves and hope beyond hope that it doesn't end like it did for that man or how it did for a dear friend of mine. But, for this reason, I agree that other celebrations of culture, art, connection and freedom must keep themselves secret from the majority of the internet and main stream.
@Jhordan Barron don't be naive man it's that type of thought process that further drives the stake between people. You are promoting us vs them. Don't be apart of the problem, be a part of the solution.
Tuna Fish there are more lunatics than that on my daily walks 😕 Those people are everywhere, but i am going to live my life to the fullest regardless, just with caution 😉
Thank you for your work, it was seen! Thank you also for sharing this video of heartbreak as a legacy which will serve as a reminder for us all next year.
I see the love, imagination, patience, joy, accomplishment, excitement, perseverance, techniques, challenges, experiences, overcoming, knowledge, empathy, growing pains that came out of your beautiful project. I'm sure it touched many lives just as it did mine. Once again, you are a gifted soul and thank you for sharing.
At least you were not personally attacked by a roving gang of "skin-heads with hair" trying to steal my art car. I have sore muscles and bruises, but oddly not sore feelings. It's not the same event. Sheriff report filed. Keep making art, try going to the smaller regionals.
That is a crazy story as well. With a bunch of stories of less than friendly altercations I'm hoping there is a way to save the event or if it is too late? I'm hoping there is still a way...
I want to thank you for bringing your beautiful art to Burning Man. My friends and I stopped there and marveled at the gorgeous work and were even puzzled yo understand how the wood fit together on one of the pieces. I am so sorry that someone destroyed it. I am heartened by the journey you had after that. Broken crayons still color. Hopefully the broken crayon that destroyed your piece has found better ways to color.
Burning man became too mainstream, once people started having vip "off limits" areas I decided burning man was not for me. The entire ideology of burning man is lost now, it is now just another "edc Vegas"
As a VERY long time Burner I can state that BM has never been about anarchy; chaos yes, but not anarchy. Years ago the chaos was starting to get out of hand and BM changed to being all about Community. Trashing someone else's art has ALWAYS been highest on the list of "DO NOT" offenses. Sadly, people with a headful of acid or mushrooms have seriously impaired judgement and things like this happen. I urge Mr. Tibbetts to apply in January for a BM Foundation grant for 2018 and hope Larry and Marian will recognize his contribution and efforts in painstaking artistic impressions.
i am just so sorry this happened to you. it was beautiful. a beautiful sentiment, the woodwork unbelievably intricate, and the fact that the entire structure was made by you guys...just truly amazing. thank you for bringing it into creation.
Thank you for your beautiful art Malcolm. My tribe chanced upon your installation very late Wednesday night in its full glory. When we were there, about 25 people were sitting on the swings, touching and wondering at the workmanship. It was so well constructed that I thought it was made of some sort of composite. Only after many minutes were we able to convince ourselves that it was all wood. I just wanted to let you know that your art was very appreciated by my tribe. I'm sorry that you were on the receiving end of some unfortunate souls that can only express themselves through destruction. Please keep doing what you are doing and sharing it with those of us that really appreciate it.
Coming from another installation artist, I'm very sorry for your loss but I'm surprised you didn't know that the first thing people will do is climb all over it. To place a "don't climb" sign on anything at BM is just ASKING for more problems. Perhaps the application wasn't thought through thoroughly enough?
Not sure if you're a Burner but the very nature of Burning Man is very anti-establishment. Burning the "man" is underlined for the duration of its existence. To place an establishment-esque sign on anything there is an invitation for abuse. I think it's imperative that all artists have realistic expectations of what all could possibly happen to your piece - including the possibility of total destruction by 120 MPH dust storms.
It's logically fallacious to implicate the creator for not making a more indestructible "application" to the design. There are a lot of people who apply that reasoning to BM and anything material: "Don't bring anything you care about, or ....etc etc..." Sure, if you lose an expensive coat, or your get a scratch on your car... it's not going to garner a lot of sympathy from anyone. Ethically speaking, vandalism and theft are huge problems at BM. I've been 15 times off and on since '95...as an artist - and builder...and I've had "Do Not Climb" posted on two installations that I can remember. One of them damaged, but repairable. The other was more about the participant's safety. I've more stuff stolen than I care to go into, but I won't make excuses for anyone that destroys or eliminates a participants ability to utilize their art or sustain as a camp as intended. I do understand the nature of anti-establishment thinking and the impulses involved with "don't do this...." However, 99/100 that's not what causes the problems out there. It's people who are refuse to live outside of their own experience. It's self-entitled, arrogant, and sometime hateful. As much I want to see people be free, and behave with a childlike innocence and abandon at times....there are plenty of places to do it. One look at this piece, and it's clear.... that it wasn't designed with intention of "come play on this as hard as you possibly can, test the integrity and strength of it's design - because you are more important than everyone else." You have to do your best to prepare for those who are determined to destroy, steal, and be off their tits on drugs. I get that. It's still contemptible for people to do this. Drugs, accidents, and bad judgement are things we can plan for a little bit, but for the most part the hope is we'll govern ourselves enough to stop undesirable behavior when we see it. I've been there, and confrontation is no fun, but it's necessary. Identifying people, cars, and camps who behave with blatant disregard for others is part of our responsibility as a community.
I am having difficulty in how you turned the blame from the people who destroyed the art to the artist who worked all year to give us something beautiful. It is in no way his fault in application or thought out plan. It is the fault of mindless selfish people who took delight in destruction of something beautiful. Lets keep this straight. The artist gave for us to enjoy. They have a right to expect that we will respect their creation. Lets keep this straight.
Sadly, these events attract schizophrenic moths and you know the relationship such people have with visually challenging art. If the Mona Lisa has been attacked many times your piece is in good company. It's a superb mobile. I've photographed some of the most famous pieces in New York, Paris and DC and your piece belongs among them. Since it has been destroyed, it will never become inconsequential. Small solace. Love from all the art lovers.
My brother and I checked out this piece of art early on in the week and we were both very impressed by it! He had met you or your son while you were constructing it and told me the story behind it. I was really in awe of the work and craftsmanship of it all. Beautiful. I can close my eyes and see it out there on the playa. The middle mobile wasn't there when I saw it, but I wish it would've been because it looked even MORE incredible. Thank you for this installation, it will always be a part of my virgin burn
Being a wood turner and amateur machinist and welder, I watched part one with great interest and awe at the hours of excellent and meticulous work put into the project - so very cool...Then I saw the heartbreak part 2 - OMG..It gave me chills...I am so sorry this happened to your project. You make wonderful art and excellent videos - succinct, interesting, well shot, and never boring...fantastic job....
People try to make it sound as if you did something wrong or made some mistake. Neither is true. You did everything right. Unfortunately there was someone that was wrong and should not have been there, but it was not you Malcolm.
My questions to you are: Why were you there in the first place? What kind of people do you think are going to the BM? Just watching some videos about BM, I couldn't help but notice that I would not go to BM even if it was free and in my backyard. All the pretty and 'good' things that people are free to do at the BM, they could do them at home, in their regular lives and places. I mean, if you seek acceptance - you're a poor soul. Don't weep for your art being destroyed, weep for the reasons why you were at the BM.
I don’t weep for my loss or for myself. Maybe I weep for people that are so cynical in their views of their fellow man. While there may be a few drug-out crazed dirty hippies running around, the majorities are not. Don’t judge the whole basket based upon a few bad apples.
If we're talking about poor souls, how about those people who get their kicks posting disparaging comments on CZcams videos about topics they don't understand? Thousands of people visited and appreciated Malcolm's installation, myself included. There were people there day and night. I have no doubt that many memorable moments were had there - people stumbling across the piece unexpectedly and having it resonate with them profoundly, moments spent watching the sunset or sunrise from the installation, strangers met and conversations started over the art. People like Malcolm should be applauded for doing what they do despite the risk of heartbreak. He knew that it would only take one bad actor out of 70,000 participants to undo his hard work, but he did it anyway because he cared about sharing his art with the community. The event is all about openness, and openness means a certain amount of vulnerability. There would be no point in going out there if everything was roped off and under guard and participants were expected to behave like museum patrons at all times. It's being constantly on guard against the few who would ruin things that hardens us in the default world and keeps us from opening up. Making things work as the event gets larger and larger and attracts more and more people who see CZcams videos and think it's just a big drug-fueled party is a challenge, but it's still working, thanks to people like Malcolm. He has not only kept a positive attitude after the destruction of his art, he's also continued to speak with compassion and understanding here, in the face of people telling him that what he cares about is wrong and judging themselves to be morally superior for sitting at home, doing nothing out of the ordinary and assuming the worst of their fellow humans.
Great perspective on this experience. I met you briefly at the piece before the damage and was inspired by how much work you put into providing such an amazing piece for others to enjoy. Absolutely beautiful work, thank you for bringing it to the Playa. I hope you’ll be inspired to bring more of your work, big or small, in future years.
I am so sorry this happened to you! The beautiful piece that was left was a reminder that in real beauty there is always sadness and despair. In this world there is good and bad and at burning man you can be anything you want and being free sometimes doesn’t always mean a good thing. I am so glad you found peace in your heartbreak. Your work will live on
Think sand paintings, intricate, beautiful, time consuming.......only to be brushed away when completed. Perhaps the brushing is the true completion. It's the art of letting go, non-attachment.
Wait, 90% of the people out there are drunk or on some sort of drug and you didnt think they would grab a hold of something spinning around within reach?
Heartbreaking for sure my man. Thank you for your amazing contribution to BRC and thanks for your beautiful perspective on seeing your piece broken and how you dealt with it.
My husband and I enjoyed talking to you as you explained your piece and how it was created.You were waiting for your son to come with repairs after the first vandalism. We looked later in the week and had hoped to see your art in all it's glory. We are so sorry that it was destroyed instead of appreciated. So much work, energy and creative expression is needed to bring art to the playa. It's heartbreaking and depressing to have it just destroyed. Please know that we loved your art.
you lost me at "i couldn't believe". you put priceless artwork within arms reach of thousands and thousands of intoxicated, unsupervised young people, and somehow didn't expect this would happen. while i was watching the previous video, i knew as soon as i saw the set-up that this would happen within HOURS of the start of the festival. how that escaped you i don't know. your artwork is bloody amazing and doesn't deserve this kind of defiling, but there's no way such a smart man could've overlooked precaution.
You're absolutely right; I was far too trusting. Call it naive or stupidity. But for the record, the perpetrator was not some unsupervised young person. He was described as being about 40. Was he under the influence of something? Quite possibly, but we’ll probably never know.
Fyodor Dostoyevsky > Quotes > Quotable Quote Fyodor Dostoyevsky “Shower upon him every earthly blessing, drown him in bliss so that nothing but bubbles would dance on the surface of his bliss, as on a sea...and even then every man, out of sheer ingratitude, sheer libel, would play you some loathsome trick. He would even risk his cakes and would deliberately desire the most fatal rubbish, the most uneconomical absurdity, simply to introduce into all this positive rationality his fatal fantastic element...simply in order to prove to himself that men still are men and not piano keys.”
I love you, human... for many reasons. Your expression, Your ability to provide energy to all of us, Your honesty in being able to let go of the precious above all. Small consolation for the beauty lost you brought our eyes but, the beauty you show in letting go, by putting it in perspective, is a BEAUTY that will live in us and you, forever. Thanks for the point of view and letting us know. Hugs and Dust
As a person who loves art, this was hard to watch, as an artist it made me very angry. I hope you return to building large art installations like this, because one things for sure, this was a beautiful piece of art. Thanks for Sharing it with us
Yeah apart from all the comments of love and support from people who were there. What a shame to be so narrowminded you just lump everyone who attends as 'satanic heathens'. Your parents clearly failed you.
This brought me great sadness, then I saw your "A Woodturner's Dream" and was brought to tears. Burning Man revitalized my need to cry at sadness but more importantly at joy. Your dream, it's visualization, creation, labor, installation, is amazing, and the joy it brought to those who saw it is wondrous. My tears were for this amazement and joy that you created. That is what you must keep in your heart. Burning Man is only a short moment of time and then it ends. Most of Man's work is ephemeral. Piece by piece, what must continue is our individual journey towards love, peace, and joy, and Man's desire to mark that journey through art, your art. This you have achieved, I value it most dearly, and believe it is what and why Burning Man is.
Thank you for your art and for your depth - it saddens me this is happening more these days. Please continue creating your beautiful art! it's needed in the world! Peace!
You wasted your time erecting it at burning man, the whole festival is an idol to gods of fire and destruction. The pieces need to be hung in a a huge shopping mall or public building with cameras and out of reach of drunken revellors! I empathize with you... my brother died in a motorbike accident 1 day after my 46 birthday. We were best friends for nearly fifty years and it was all wasted in a heartbeat. 50 years we supported each other and dragged, laughed and fought each other through the tough times. 2000 hours was a lot of work but you can rebuild with wisdom. Take a burning effigy to burning man, take your best work to an art gallery where it will be appreciated. RIP.
bent540 Sorry you feel that way. I'm not a "junkie," nor are any of the 25 people that I camped with, nor are a majority of the attendees. I was there, were you?
Your art was incredibly beautiful! Within my first hour at Burning Man I was swept up in a white out, out on the playa. Your art provided shelter for me when I needed it most. I hope this tragic vandalism doesn't keep you from contributing your craft. Keep doing what you are doing, you are such an amazing creator!
OMG! My heart sank even further when I heard you say you burned the pieces. I wish you had rebuilt it, but as artists we must follow our hearts, even when they are broken. What a truly amazing accomplishment you and your son achieved and what awesome memories you will have of your adventure. It is sad that there are people in this world that have it in them to destroy beauty.
Maybe you will finally understand burningman aint a spiritually righteous event. You got targeted because your a nice person not participating in satanic rituals. better luck next year : )
💔 an emotional, well told, heartbreaking story. thank you for the grace with which you dealt with the situation, and persevered to make something beautiful out of destruction. thank you for bringing your beautiful art, and all of the time, effort, money, blood, sweat and tears that you dedicated to it for the public consumption and impact on others. you have inspired people within the community to report on art vandalism, and to actively work toward ways to prevent future destruction.
Oh wow! I would like to congratulate you and your som with such a great project that is so amazing and fantastic in any way a woodworker can imagine. And I wish it was no part 2. I dont know how to say how sad it is.
I am blown away by your work Malcolm. You and your son are beyond experts in your respective creations. Words do not do this masterful creation justice. I watched the part one as well and I'm very disappointed to see this immense undertaking of effort and love was vandalized, what a travesty. That being said, you handled it and spoke of it like a true man. You're an inspiration. Your son is an inspiration. Seriously guys, what talent. You get an A++++ Malcolm! God Bless you, your family and your work.
Hi Malcolm, I was fortunate enough to see your amazing piece of art before the destruction, and unfortunate enough to come across it right after it was destroyed. My condolences to you. I applaud you for your compassion towards the individuals who destroyed it. May you continue to create.
Malcolm, I found these two video's were both awe inspiring and heartbreaking and brought me to tears; first for your amazing work. those pieces were remarkable and bringing us into the work space so that we could participate in the construction was simply cool. Then there was the destruction, well... I don't have words. I am an artist too. I know that I am in the right mindset and my life is in balance when upon waking and laying down to sleep, I am thinking about creating something. Artists have a constant dialogue with the world around them, but for some, they can neither hear nor intuit this conversation. Perhaps those who attacked yours and the work of other artists are angry because they are on the outside looking in. Thank you to you and your son for talking to the rest of us, it was such a beautiful conversation.
Truly inspired by your part 1 video. but when I watched this video I felt truly heartbroken. This hit me hard, because I've also lost someone very close to me.. The artwork is beautiful! Also, thank you so much for sharing this with the rest of the world. Peace and love from Norway.
So much work and love went into that sculpture. Watching you construct it I imagined how much creative flow and fulfillment you experienced shared with your son. Seeing it set up before the festival in all its glory. What a triumph!
Watching your first video I was feeling very very down and your peace gave me a little smile at the images of hope and love watching this video brought a tear to my eye
I am so sorry someone did this to your art after so much hard work and dedication that you put into it. For what it's worth, it was an absolutely beautiful piece of art.
Mr. Tibbetts, I find it disturbing when someone feels the need to destroy things just in an attempt to make themselves feel better. I only hope that person gets to watch these videos and truly understand the man-hours of skill and dedication you put into your work just so others can look upon it and find some shining moments of happiness or awe, or child like wonder. I hope he gets to see what he really destroyed. I hope the dread he feels when the realization of his dead strikes him, and forces him to get real professional help. I hope that this individual becomes a better person. I myself thank you for your work, and I thank you for letting the world see you and your process and your art. God bless you and your family sir.
Your accomplishments and purpose remain forever a success, not physically anymore but digitally in your first video and in the minds of all who understand. Congratulations! And thank you.
Malcolm, your art installation was lovely. I think one of the lessons of a burn is that everything is temporary, and the most important part of art is not its preservation, but the effect that it has on those that view it. By those measurements, your piece had a profound effect on someone, if not the effect that you planned or wanted. The damage didn't end your art, only changed its message. I know that it can be heartbreaking to spend so much time, love and energy on a piece only to have things go wrong at the end, but I think your hard work was not wasted -- it's still touching people today after all.
I'd trade in my heart to see that this display were back to full glory and within proximity of those who would appreciate your extreme talents. Such both a beautiful and tragic story. I pity the vandal for their destruction, but you Sir are such a glory. Thanks for uploading the videos. It's been a privilege to see this online.
I am sorry that your beautiful work was vandalized. I truly appreciate your perspective that you shared regarding the man who ended his life. You can continue on creating more beautiful pieces but his time is over. I am in a small Florida town but was able to view this and have been inspired to start a project with my son. You have an amazing talent and vision to create.
The whole idea of Burning Man is the end of things. All the motions, lights and sounds leading up to the burn. Joy and sorrow, the orgies of life, the communal heap grows, pile it high.
A year later I return to comment again. This year it was my art that was vandalized. As a decade long burner this was very difficult for me. Your video has helped with processing it all. Thank you.
And, yes, broken crayons still color.
I'm not one for words, but I couldn't help say something when I happened upon your two video's this morning. As a woodworker, I watched you build this magnificent structure. I saw the effort and time in just the segments of video you provided. I saw the love and painstaking effort you put into this piece and it made me well up with sense of awe and respect.
I'm not an artist, I don't have a creative side, my mind works in structure and calculations; when I saw the aftermath of your art being vandalized I couldn't understand it. I'm sure you cant either, I see this as something akin to murder, because surely the person who did this had to realize how much of your heart and soul went into making it.
I wish I had seen it in person. Truly magnificent, thank you for having a dream.
Malcolm is right, this piece was broken by someone who was himself broken. You are projecting rational thoughts on someone with an irrational mind. I can't believe that people who destroy art understand anything that goes into it's creation. They merely see structure and order and want only chaos. They see creation and, because they cannot validate their existence by making, try to do so by destroying.
I'm not an artist either - but don't ever sell yourself short. You don't have to make enormous sculptures to be creative. Try something creative. Grab a block of wood and a knife at the craft store, or a "Juggling for the complete Klutz" kit. Or a harmonica and one of David Harp's books. Anything - you may be surprised at how well you do, or even how much you enjoy doing it poorly.
I have a modest business making and selling items at craft fairs. It involves skill that I learned and practiced. I wasn't born knowing how to do it. And at every show, people tell me "I could never do something like that" and then pay me $50 for something that I make for $10 in my spare time. And I always think " and you never WILL learn how to do something like that with that attitude" while smiling and saying "Thank you". But I let myself be told by other people for 20 years how I couldn't do anything right - and I started believing them. Until I met a guy who just said "Do you think I was born knowing how to do this? Just try it - you're better at it than you think."
Derek - just try it - you're better at it than you think.
Your piece of art touched many people. The effort you poured into it was not lost, wasted, or otherwise squandered. The person that encountered your art and decided to trash it in fact only made your piece more valuable and thought provoking! To know you surrendered and graciously added your art to be part of the burning man itself is a selfless act of kindness and forgiveness given to all to see! Your pice was beautiful on my tablet and I can only imagine how awesome it was to touch and see in solid form! Thank you for sharing your passion, art, story, and time with me, us, and the world!
P.s. I am an accomplished Wood Smith myself and as I watched the first video I was helping you set the clamps, bands, and all. It was exhausting to watch your efforts! Thank you again!!
It was one of our first days at the Burn this year, and my friend and I sat under this piece for what felt like hours talking about the awe of it, and then, perhaps feeling "big" in our perspectives, talked about life, our challenges, and our dreams. Thank you father/son collaboration for your immensely beautiful gift. And thank you for letting us know what happened. As you testified to, there was a lot of exploitation at burning man this year. Your story helps provide evidence of it that can serve as fodder for those who want to help nourish and protect the true spirit of the playa.
Kelly Peters They had a "Low income" ticket this year. The Riff-Raff have arrived. Sad, but true.
Samual Whittemore They have a low income program every year. It's so struggling artists can still participate and produce art. Educate yourself please
Oh yeah, Samual, because rich entitled fuckheads would never destroy art because they're too fucking selfish to appreciate the work and sacrifice of someone else.
Fucking moron.
you couldnt but help talk about yourself... pretentious burning man devote you are. I will ban people like you from attending BM 2019... i have given orders to keep pretentious weatlhy women and riff-raff from entering.
maybe BM has finally reached it's end. every thing has a life span....if this is the future of BM, maybe end it while it's still good vibes.
Thank you for sharing your story. After seven years at the Burn I'm still trying to figure it out myself. So much beauty and art, yet so much debauchery and disregard. The conclusion of your experience does add to my overall understanding of such a get together. I'm glad you contributed such an amazing piece of work and are thoughtful enough to except its destruction. I appreciate you.
Malcolm, Thank you so much for making this beautiful piece. As a woodworker and a burner I sincerely appreciate the craftsmanship and your dedication to bringing that craftsmanship to the playa. I am heartbroken with you about the damage to your work during the event but please know that so many people appreciate and enjoyed your work. I can imagine that your experience this year puts a damper on your enthusiasm for bringing work to Black Rock City but I hope you also know that the vast majority of participants were impressed, moved and awed by your work. Thank you so much for sharing both of these videos. And Ioved the father son collaboration. Please consider making more videos, the youtube community of makers and woodworkers is impressive and I think you would have a lot to contribute. Best of luck.
Very well said! 🙏🏼✨🔥
Your art is moving and your humanity is gigantic. I am a woodworking/woodturner and I am overwhelmed by the vision and execution of your art.Thank you so much for sharing both parts of your journey with us. Your work makes the world a better place. Best regard, Keith
TY!!!
A beautiful art piece and you brought joy to many.
The broken piece is really the person that did that.
At the very least you have physical proof what you did happened. And now it’s a piece of the burning man history and I guarantee people will talk about it for ages as one of the most beautifully crafted piece that’s ever been. Love sir, it’s what it’s all about and why you did so much. To show all your love and your willing to show what passion truly is. I hope you heal from this travesty.
Ray, I am quite "healed." Looking forward is always more productive.
Your love, patience and understanding is incredible. Your art piece was perfect and it was perfect "semi-fragile". This is beyond sad and unbelievable to me. I have not gotten to where you are in the love evolution process. I don't care what this person has experienced, I would like to know who it is and find him/her/them. They would never be able to do this to any other thing or being in this world again. What hurts me the most in this world is when a gentle heart like yours has to question ANYTHING. I hope this awful person's doing doesn't change you or take anything from you. I hope that the love you feel from the rest of us erases whatever sadness may still be there and most of all I hope, that you and your son will create together again and it would be my honor to contribute when you do. Sending love.
This brought me to tears. 😢 Don't stop what you're doing. For every disrespectful, uncaring, & destructive person - there are 5-10 more who not only appreciate your art, but empathize with your hard work & dedication, and can also walk away from your artistry with a lesson.. a feeling.. a change of heart.. a drive.. or even a new purpose! I for one think that the world needs you to keep on keeping on. God bless you. 💛💜💙💚
I was about to say the very same thing!! This is art and love on a whole different level. I wish I had seen it, embraced it and appreciated it. I imagine 100s-1000s of burners sat and contemplated your art, loved it and moved on before the one bad seed came along. Even in unintended pieces, your art speaks volumes.
I watched your videos and as a woodworker I was in "aawwww". Left with no words other than "WOW" as I watched it being made. What a craftsman you are !! Then the second video, I was madder than I don't know what when I saw the broken pieces on the ground !
However, as you spoke so gently about the one that broke it, Then you went one step further and put your broken "peace sign" upon the ground for others at the event. And you thought of the man who lost his life to say a few words for him. You put me in tears . We should all be so humbled as you . God has blessed you Mr.Tibbitts with many more blessing to come. Thank you for telling your story, we all can learn from this one.
"Would climbing walls help so people could have their urge to climb satisfied?" NO, you don't owe anybody anything. People destroy things because they can--not because they need to. They are not puppies who need to be given something to chew on so that they do not chew up your prized possessions. These are people who have never made something their entire life--nor made anything of their life. They break things because they, themselves, are broken--and you cannot fix them--nor is it your responsibility to do so.
Quite true. if these people who destroy had vision and made art, it would have meaning to them, causing to appreciate the vision and work of others, and show the appropriate respect, introspection and even critique. Sad, but creatives must carry on.
So Mark what ought the community (e.g. Government) do with these people who you claim can't be "fixed". This is where The potential for further evil may emerge.
As much of a "douche" I am. I respect everyone and everything, I just can't respect so I guess I'm only a douche to douche bags
Psychopaths can't do it. They deceive and hurt on their way to power, destroying things. In the end they have nothing, and it's not satisfying.
Where was the ivory from? I wonder if someone was angry because they felt an animal had suffered to provide the ivory?
Maclom, pre-event, camp Fer Sherbert stopped by your piece as you were building it. We came with news of rumors and handmade treats! Everyone in our group was so inspired by your piece, as well as by you as an individual. Thank you for your kind energy. Thank you for all your hard work. I hope you keep dreaming big dreams and that the universe comes to answer them.
And your treats were wonderful!
Your attitude towards this set back sets a great example of resilience and true passion. Being a beginner myself, I was truly inspired by watching the creation of this piece. The way the pieces were crafted and fitted together changed my perception on how one can make such nuanced yet natural thing.
So so sad. I cried as I watched in awe as you labored to create such an expression of love and magic. So my heart cried to see your art in leaves. But as I listen to you reflect on the events and how there is meaning in every moment that we all exist we all matter even if in that moment all we see is ourselves, someone else maybe experiencing themselves too. Instantly the pain reaches across and connects us to each other and all of a sudden empathy humbles and recenters us and brings us back to our raw state our purest and most simplest state of insignificance and gratitude. Thank you so much for all that you are Mr. Tibbetts!!
So very sorry to learn that your artwork was extensively damaged. When I first saw your heading "Heartbreak at Burning Man" I thought that maybe some one had stolen one of your art pieces, like the beautiful Peace symbol. As this video progressed I recognized that all of your hard work was for nought. The person(s) who did this chose not even leave it up for others to enjoy until the last day. As I have viewed numerous videos of Burning Man over the years I have often wondered why more of the artwork is not damaged. Your circumstances are living proof that a butt head is born every minute. Your final comment about the sign "Broken Crayons Still Color" speaks volumes about the type of person that you are. Malcolm, Thank you for what you did to make Burning Man a more enjoyable place and thank you for sharing your thoughts with us.
This is a very moving video Malcolm. Thanks so much for sharing the images and your thoughts so vividly. Despite the emotional pain that is even plain to hear in your voice, I am especially moved by your genuine selflessness and focus on the greater picture and message. Though this tragedy may well be a reflection of the troubling times that our society is now living, as clearly summarized on one of the photos left behind by an admirer of your art, I too firmly believe that "we ARE better than this". While granted it's easy for me to say, please do not let this incident discourage you from producing further woodturning masterpieces for all of us to enjoy. And most of all, please keep that ever-positive, generous and unique role-model spirit of yours alive and untarnished.
I want to thank you for bringing your beautiful art to Burning Man. My friends and I stopped there and marveled at the gorgeous work and were even puzzled yo understand how the wood fit together on one of the pieces. I am so sorry that someone destroyed it. I am heartened by the journey you had after that. Broken crayons still color. Hopefully the broken crayon that destroyed your piece has found better ways to color.
Mr. Tibbetts, I am a Woodturner who has been inspired by your work. You are a great artist and there is nothing anyone can do to change that. Thank you for your contribution to the woodworking community.
Gratitude to you for such a beautiful piece of art and frankly, a very hard to watch film. I cannot fathom how someone could accord such disrespect. While I do understand radical self-expression, there is also such a thing as common decency. Yes, broken crayons still color and perhaps this film will reach the people responsible.
Thank you for bringing art to Burning Man. I saw your piece early in the week and appreciated its beauty and craftsmanship. Please don't let the actions of a few discourage you.
Malcolm! I just watched both videos and I'm speechless. I had known about the damage but the videos add a heartbreaking dimension. The amount of work, skill, and dedication that went into this work is beyond imagination. You are an inspiration.
Malcolm, I have come to The Generator to work on Playa art the last couple summers, and I was in awe when I saw the geometric wood components hanging over Andy’s space there in the months before the Burn. They inspired me as I did the repair and maintenance to prep a piece created by a friend of mine. It also has taken a lot of work and suffered some damage over several Burns, though less than yours, by the minority of stupid yahoos who don’t seem to know a thing about respect for the amount of time, effort, cost, and love for community that goes into the creation of these pieces.
I want you to know that you touched me and thousands of others with your work despite what happened. I finally got to see how the whole structure fit together during build week as it went up. I and so many others did enjoy it in its integrity. I came upon all the broken pieces the next day after the destruction and helped the gentlemen taking them down and loading them on the truck, and I, too, was heartbroken for you and Andy.
I’ve had a lot of personal trauma over the last few years due to a few selfish and careless individuals in the world outside of BM, too, and it does hurt and leave scars wherever it happens. Please keep on, though. Your work was and is *so* appreciated. We have to do our best not to become cynical. I believe there are many more people that want to create and share than to take and destroy. I don’t think Burning Man would be what it is if the latter were the case, or that there would be hope for the world at large.
So, thank you. Also, I suspect you really enjoyed creating this with your son, a true mensch if I’ve ever known one. “…We must have the stubbornness to accept our gladness in the ruthless furnace of this world.” -Jack Gilbert
From what I've heard from friends that have gone to Burning Man and things that have happened there I have no desire to ever go there myself. I've also heard that theft is a big thing at Burning Man.
no fragile art can be put in public places anywhere in the world ..
And isn't that sad; aren't we better than that.
Apparently not.
i was thinking the same thing. .. everything has to be made psycho and man-child proof. one of the best parks that i have been to had an outdoor gym(with everything an indoor gym would have that isn't electric) and the entire thing was bolted to the cement, completely child proof and pretty much indestructible. No piece could be taken out or removed. It still remains today. The other amazing place that i know was a giant playcastle big enough for adults to have fun, but completely made of wood. sad to say that the wooden castle was burnt down and no longer exists... 😕. if you are building an outdoor thing meant to be seen by thousands or more people, you know there will always be THOSE people. it is just a percentage thing. it isn't like everyone is out to get you or something. There will just ALWAYS be those people in a human population, people who destroy things, hurt things, even kill things. It is smart to build anything public knowing this. make it indestructible, flame proof, whatever is necessary to withstand psychos, man-children, drunks, people on who knows what.. etc. this is burning man... drunks and messed up people will be everywhere.
I watched through both videos and the first video shows your love and passion for what you do, and it's something that I could never in my life even comprehend or imagine. I think people don't always realize how much work goes into things around us. I'm sorry that someone destroyed your installation, I'm glad you found some peace in the aftermath. Keep making your art.
You have my condolences. Thank you for sharing this story. It inspires in many ways. The physical remnants of your art is gone. Thankfully, you remain.
Like everything else civility, common sense, and Burning Man may be coming to an end.
Beautiful work. I was heart broken just watching. Being a woodworker I understand the hours and hours you have put into the project- although I have never taken on anything 1/10 that scale. The project- and the video its self- is beautiful and awe inspiring. Well done and keep coloring.
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. My wife and I very much enjoyed watching your build process and completely comprehend the hours of love that went into your piece. As a woodworker/artist I hope to one day be able to bring a piece of me to Burning Man. Thanks again to you and your sons work.
Malcom,
It was great getting to make your acquaintance this year. I feel exceptionally fortunate to be someone who got to enjoy your gift, without vandalism, in it's entirety.
Thank you for all you have done and bringing such a fine piece of artwork to such a harsh environment...to share with so many.
Beautiful piece, I would have liked to see it in person. I am very sorry it was destroyed. Unfortunately as time moves on people are becoming more angry, self-entitled, narcissistic and they do whatever they please with no regard how their actions effect anyone. I have had a piece damaged in a show & a piece dissappear from a show. At least your damage can be explained as people under the influence do bizarre things, but it's still not right. It was fitting that you placed the pieces within the burns. I hope you still will create for big events, just remember to build for crazy bad adhd kids full of sugar & red dye, only instead it's bad adults taking lots of drugs.
I wonder...could the vandal have been looking for that piece of pink ivory?
Thank you for your contribution to the wonderful art at Burning Man this year. I don't know if it helps, but perhaps in some unexpected way, what happened allowed your art to touch more hearts in a deeper way. As with years past, I spent many hours volunteering as a Temple Guardian. And although I never had the joy of happening across your tripod, I witnessed first-hand many times, watching how many people were visibly touched and comforted by your Peace sign lying there at the Temple. Know this: YOUR HARD WORK DID SO MUCH GOOD THERE AND HELPED SO MANY. Vandalism is definitely on the rise on the playa. Perhaps we need volunteer "Art Guardians" to help ensure that participants and art are both safe and secure.
I just watched this clip. I have to say, listening to your story, I think you are the most resilient and considerate person I've seen in a long time. In the face of so much loss, you accepted others and their problems over your own heartbreaking experience. You're somewhat of a hero in my mind!
Not that surprising this happened. You get a huge mob of "enlightened" people together, add in a bunch of drugs, and what do you expect? As a woodworker, I sure can appreciate the incredible work and talent you put into this piece, but Burning Man is the last place I'd ever consider attending, let alone displaying such a valuable work. Anarchy.
Fish, is there any place where semi-fragile art can be displayed? Regarding vandalism, it's the responsibility of those that don't to educate those that do. If my story helps to educate a few of those that might, then all is not lost.
Thank you for bringing such a wonderful art piece.
I am truly sorry to hear of its destruction. Don't give up!
it broke my heart , i felt like crying for a moment . cheers man you have inspired me .
I missed your piece on the playa, but I'm immensely grateful that you made and brought it. Don't let that heartbreak deter you from coming again. I would have loved to do something like this with my dad.
When you feel down about this sad event, take the time to weigh all the good your creative efforts have inspired in others and watch the scales tip the way they are supposed to in spite of everything.
Hope to see you out there next year!
The saddest part is that the artist ponders whether rock climbing walls would have prevented the destruction. How very Progressive, maybe that's how government would solve it. Our cultural and behavioral decay is rooted in loose parenting and lack of accountability. I don't know if America will rebound.
mickvk I want to say that America will rebound but only after the forebears of recent generations stop supporting the stupidity that is running rampant.
It's those things perhaps, but more so it's the entire countries unearned and undeserved sense of entitlement. We're American god damn it! We're the world's wet dream of an amazing existence on this planet, or so we've allowed ourselves to be lulled stupidly into believing. And when we don't get our way we throw a tantrum and lay blame on every other race, creed, country, religion, we can summon up to be our whipping boy du jour. And when that fails to pacify us, we find ourselves being purposely yet slyly divided by those we elect to lead us and get drawn into attacking each other while those same leaders are stealing what little of our precious and once sacred Babylon remains for us out the back door. Perhaps it's what's deserved, we don't truly value or cherish its rare specialness despite all our grandstanding and lip service we offer ad nauseum. Cause if we did we wouldn't be focusing so misdirected towards the respect we pay or choose not to pay as a form of protest to a simple rectangle of cloth with some stars or stripes on it. We would instead be demanding justice from and for our cancerous government, and we would stop buying into the cheap lies that the traitorous and dangerous men we have stupidly decided to believe in and elected to safe guard such an important institution. All those nice good paying blue collar lifelong union jobs that our grandparents and parents had during the second half of the last century are NEVER COMING BACK! It's time to let go of that anger and to stop allowing criminal snake oil salesmen to con us into believing they can or will. Cause they are just using that as a trinket to steal our trust so we can give them the keys to the kingdom and think they will safeguard it as they have volunteered to do, when in reality they have used that trust to rob the kingdom blind.
Americans think they are owed the world, and the truth is they already have it. We are 4% of the world's population... 4 percent.. And yet we consume 25% of the world's energy... How long is that sustainable??
And for what it's worth this art piece is stunning especially seeing how much craft care and time went into its creation. And the senseless violence enacted upon it indeed heartbreaking but so too is the loss of much of most of the resources used in creating it as well as the resources that make up the art itself... All that beautiful redwood and the glue which likely isn't the cleanest burning substance around all gone up in smoke... I'm sorry to the artist for such a loss and I'm sorry to future generations for such a waste of precious resources in the process...
Lol. You know, I really appreciate the work and heart that went into this installation. But to sit here and tell us how it's Americans that are entitled? Don't you know that every bankrupt country in Europe is so because of entitlement programs? You do realize manufacturing jobs have INCREASED to their highest level since 2009? Did you even consider the enormous amount of resources and energy needed to create this art, and for what? So a bunch of entitled regressives can swing from it while blown out of their minds? Ridiculous.
Edit, I reread and say you mention the resources. This isn't the want or need of "Americans". It's the wants of a small group of people.
mitchil Geary super constructive and definitely adds value to this conversation
mickvk you hit the nail on the head. Man abandons God in favor of intellectual pursuits then tries to create spirituality out of feelings and expression. Well this is what happens, the decay of morals and mankind because man has no one to account to.
there were 1000s of crazies there... some one was BOUND to destroy it
Good one
You and your son and so beautiful and talented. While part 1 of your story is empowering and part 2 is heartbreaking, please remember not the loss, but all the love, support, and inspiration your story has created--both at the event and after!
Even here, online, where some magic is lost from the experience, there's so many video views, articles, and showings of support. I was brought to this story from my campmates, who shared part 1 on Facebook:
"This is a video of the creation of my favorite art installation at Burning Man this year. I was fortunate to be able to talk to Malcolm about his process in building this, and even more impressed now, seeing exactly how it was done.
It was his second burn, and was inspired to build this after attending the year before. He started last November... and seeing the scale of what he created in that time was hard to comprehend.
I'm grateful for the lessons taken away from this man. Keep learning. Keep building. Stay inspired forever... and share."
To let go is to give. To give is to share...
Sad that so much time, effort, skill and love goes into a project and can be shot down in just a moment. I was amazed watching the process of putting it all together and hope that this hasn’t discouraged you too much in your fellow man. Some of us are incredibly appreciative of what you’ve created.
For your next project, hang bear traps.
Great comment ever!!!
LOL, that is hilarious, priceless :) !!
What causes this kind of distruction? Drugs, alcohol, and people having been raised without learning
to be responsible for their actions.
Malcolm, It was a honor to meet you under this piece and talk to you about how you made it on your lathe. It was obvious that you took great pride in your art and loved sharing not only the piece itself, but the description of the artistry behind it. Thank you for being there and making my burn a better experience.
Thank you for building such a beautiful piece. I'm sorry that the actions of a few continually bring heartache to the many of us who truly appreciate art and the artists that create it.
This "festival" sounds like a pretty crappy place to be. Psychos vandalizing and a bit of immolation. Good times
Just my two cents;
Fair warning kinda long and rambley...
The emotionally devastated people looking for solace and artistically adventurous people seeking freedom come together to create beautiful places like burning man. Unfortunately the fire of love that burns bright in these places attracts empty folks who have been told their whole life that how much money they have or how popular they are is their only worth. Who, seeing that beacon forged upon a real connection between humans, are trained to think "Party time!" Even still, I'm sure that deep down they would do anything to feel like they are a part of that love and creativity. Just on the wrong path.
I wish the "drug fueled" the best of luck in finding themselves and hope beyond hope that it doesn't end like it did for that man or how it did for a dear friend of mine.
But, for this reason, I agree that other celebrations of culture, art, connection and freedom must keep themselves secret from the majority of the internet and main stream.
@Jhordan Barron don't be naive man it's that type of thought process that further drives the stake between people. You are promoting us vs them. Don't be apart of the problem, be a part of the solution.
You take your chances to go to burning man with all those lunatics that go there.
Tuna Fish there are more lunatics than that on my daily walks 😕 Those people are everywhere, but i am going to live my life to the fullest regardless, just with caution 😉
Thank you for your work, it was seen! Thank you also for sharing this video of heartbreak as a legacy which will serve as a reminder for us all next year.
I see the love, imagination, patience, joy, accomplishment, excitement, perseverance, techniques, challenges, experiences, overcoming, knowledge, empathy, growing pains that came out of your beautiful project. I'm sure it touched many lives just as it did mine. Once again, you are a gifted soul and thank you for sharing.
At least you were not personally attacked by a roving gang of "skin-heads with hair" trying to steal my art car. I have sore muscles and bruises, but oddly not sore feelings. It's not the same event. Sheriff report filed. Keep making art, try going to the smaller regionals.
That is a crazy story as well. With a bunch of stories of less than friendly altercations I'm hoping there is a way to save the event or if it is too late? I'm hoping there is still a way...
I want to thank you for bringing your beautiful art to Burning Man. My friends and I stopped there and marveled at the gorgeous work and were even puzzled yo understand how the wood fit together on one of the pieces. I am so sorry that someone destroyed it. I am heartened by the journey you had after that. Broken crayons still color. Hopefully the broken crayon that destroyed your piece has found better ways to color.
Max Singularity Glad you were not more hurt.
Burning man became too mainstream, once people started having vip "off limits" areas I decided burning man was not for me. The entire ideology of burning man is lost now, it is now just another "edc Vegas"
The event has lost it's soul......Nothing but a crazed drug induced Rave. Never going back again.
Anarchical event produces anarchy.
It's communist, not anarchical.
radical self reliance. Yeah that sounds like communism.
As a VERY long time Burner I can state that BM has never been about anarchy; chaos yes, but not anarchy. Years ago the chaos was starting to get out of hand and BM changed to being all about Community. Trashing someone else's art has ALWAYS been highest on the list of "DO NOT" offenses. Sadly, people with a headful of acid or mushrooms have seriously impaired judgement and things like this happen. I urge Mr. Tibbetts to apply in January for a BM Foundation grant for 2018 and hope Larry and Marian will recognize his contribution and efforts in painstaking artistic impressions.
+Big Pete you're misusing the term anarchy. Look it up. It doesn't mean what you think it means.
What else happens when you burn a large a wooden figure?
i am just so sorry this happened to you. it was beautiful. a beautiful sentiment, the woodwork unbelievably intricate, and the fact that the entire structure was made by you guys...just truly amazing. thank you for bringing it into creation.
Thank you for your beautiful art Malcolm. My tribe chanced upon your installation very late Wednesday night in its full glory. When we were there, about 25 people were sitting on the swings, touching and wondering at the workmanship. It was so well constructed that I thought it was made of some sort of composite. Only after many minutes were we able to convince ourselves that it was all wood.
I just wanted to let you know that your art was very appreciated by my tribe. I'm sorry that you were on the receiving end of some unfortunate souls that can only express themselves through destruction. Please keep doing what you are doing and sharing it with those of us that really appreciate it.
Coming from another installation artist, I'm very sorry for your loss but I'm surprised you didn't know that the first thing people will do is climb all over it. To place a "don't climb" sign on anything at BM is just ASKING for more problems. Perhaps the application wasn't thought through thoroughly enough?
if you watch the video it shows there was a Do Not Climb sign on it.
It doesn't look like a climbing piece to me. Even if I saw it at night, I wouldn't think to swing it wildly. I don't understand that thought process.
Not sure if you're a Burner but the very nature of Burning Man is very anti-establishment. Burning the "man" is underlined for the duration of its existence. To place an establishment-esque sign on anything there is an invitation for abuse. I think it's imperative that all artists have realistic expectations of what all could possibly happen to your piece - including the possibility of total destruction by 120 MPH dust storms.
It's logically fallacious to implicate the creator for not making a more indestructible "application" to the design. There are a lot of people who apply that reasoning to BM and anything material: "Don't bring anything you care about, or ....etc etc..." Sure, if you lose an expensive coat, or your get a scratch on your car... it's not going to garner a lot of sympathy from anyone. Ethically speaking, vandalism and theft are huge problems at BM. I've been 15 times off and on since '95...as an artist - and builder...and I've had "Do Not Climb" posted on two installations that I can remember. One of them damaged, but repairable. The other was more about the participant's safety. I've more stuff stolen than I care to go into, but I won't make excuses for anyone that destroys or eliminates a participants ability to utilize their art or sustain as a camp as intended.
I do understand the nature of anti-establishment thinking and the impulses involved with "don't do this...." However, 99/100 that's not what causes the problems out there. It's people who are refuse to live outside of their own experience. It's self-entitled, arrogant, and sometime hateful. As much I want to see people be free, and behave with a childlike innocence and abandon at times....there are plenty of places to do it. One look at this piece, and it's clear.... that it wasn't designed with intention of "come play on this as hard as you possibly can, test the integrity and strength of it's design - because you are more important than everyone else."
You have to do your best to prepare for those who are determined to destroy, steal, and be off their tits on drugs. I get that. It's still contemptible for people to do this. Drugs, accidents, and bad judgement are things we can plan for a little bit, but for the most part the hope is we'll govern ourselves enough to stop undesirable behavior when we see it. I've been there, and confrontation is no fun, but it's necessary. Identifying people, cars, and camps who behave with blatant disregard for others is part of our responsibility as a community.
I am having difficulty in how you turned the blame from the people who destroyed the art to the artist who worked all year to give us something beautiful. It is in no way his fault in application or thought out plan. It is the fault of mindless selfish people who took delight in destruction of something beautiful. Lets keep this straight. The artist gave for us to enjoy. They have a right to expect that we will respect their creation. Lets keep this straight.
Sadly, these events attract schizophrenic moths and you know the relationship such people have with visually challenging art. If the Mona Lisa has been attacked many times your piece is in good company. It's a superb mobile. I've photographed some of the most famous pieces in New York, Paris and DC and your piece belongs among them. Since it has been destroyed, it will never become inconsequential. Small solace. Love from all the art lovers.
My brother and I checked out this piece of art early on in the week and we were both very impressed by it! He had met you or your son while you were constructing it and told me the story behind it. I was really in awe of the work and craftsmanship of it all. Beautiful. I can close my eyes and see it out there on the playa. The middle mobile wasn't there when I saw it, but I wish it would've been because it looked even MORE incredible. Thank you for this installation, it will always be a part of my virgin burn
Being a wood turner and amateur machinist and welder, I watched part one with great interest and awe at the hours of excellent and meticulous work put into the project - so very cool...Then I saw the heartbreak part 2 - OMG..It gave me chills...I am so sorry this happened to your project. You make wonderful art and excellent videos - succinct, interesting, well shot, and never boring...fantastic job....
you're living in a dream world! People go there to get high and do what they want.
Jessica, I obviously had way too much faith in burner behavior. It was an expensive lesson.
People try to make it sound as if you did something wrong or made some mistake. Neither is true. You did everything right. Unfortunately there was someone that was wrong and should not have been there, but it was not you Malcolm.
My questions to you are: Why were you there in the first place? What kind of people do you think are going to the BM? Just watching some videos about BM, I couldn't help but notice that I would not go to BM even if it was free and in my backyard. All the pretty and 'good' things that people are free to do at the BM, they could do them at home, in their regular lives and places. I mean, if you seek acceptance - you're a poor soul. Don't weep for your art being destroyed, weep for the reasons why you were at the BM.
I don’t weep for my loss or for myself. Maybe I weep for people that are so cynical in their views of their fellow man. While there may be a few drug-out crazed dirty hippies running around, the majorities are not. Don’t judge the whole basket based upon a few bad apples.
Malcolm Tibbetts Rot spreads to the rest of the basket fast
If we're talking about poor souls, how about those people who get their kicks posting disparaging comments on CZcams videos about topics they don't understand?
Thousands of people visited and appreciated Malcolm's installation, myself included. There were people there day and night. I have no doubt that many memorable moments were had there - people stumbling across the piece unexpectedly and having it resonate with them profoundly, moments spent watching the sunset or sunrise from the installation, strangers met and conversations started over the art.
People like Malcolm should be applauded for doing what they do despite the risk of heartbreak. He knew that it would only take one bad actor out of 70,000 participants to undo his hard work, but he did it anyway because he cared about sharing his art with the community. The event is all about openness, and openness means a certain amount of vulnerability. There would be no point in going out there if everything was roped off and under guard and participants were expected to behave like museum patrons at all times.
It's being constantly on guard against the few who would ruin things that hardens us in the default world and keeps us from opening up. Making things work as the event gets larger and larger and attracts more and more people who see CZcams videos and think it's just a big drug-fueled party is a challenge, but it's still working, thanks to people like Malcolm. He has not only kept a positive attitude after the destruction of his art, he's also continued to speak with compassion and understanding here, in the face of people telling him that what he cares about is wrong and judging themselves to be morally superior for sitting at home, doing nothing out of the ordinary and assuming the worst of their fellow humans.
@@tahoeturner keep the faith there is good in the world - I may not be it but I know it's there
Great perspective on this experience. I met you briefly at the piece before the damage and was inspired by how much work you put into providing such an amazing piece for others to enjoy. Absolutely beautiful work, thank you for bringing it to the Playa. I hope you’ll be inspired to bring more of your work, big or small, in future years.
I am so sorry this happened to you! The beautiful piece that was left was a reminder that in real beauty there is always sadness and despair. In this world there is good and bad and at burning man you can be anything you want and being free sometimes doesn’t always mean a good thing. I am so glad you found peace in your heartbreak. Your work will live on
Think sand paintings, intricate, beautiful, time consuming.......only to be brushed away when completed. Perhaps the brushing is the true completion. It's the art of letting go, non-attachment.
Gayest thing I've ever read.
Your comment is beautiful. I think it hits the heart of what art truly means at last!
Wait, 90% of the people out there are drunk or on some sort of drug and you didnt think they would grab a hold of something spinning around within reach?
Heartbreaking for sure my man. Thank you for your amazing contribution to BRC and thanks for your beautiful perspective on seeing your piece broken and how you dealt with it.
My husband and I enjoyed talking to you as you explained your piece and how it was created.You were waiting for your son to come with repairs after the first vandalism. We looked later in the week and had hoped to see your art in all it's glory. We are so sorry that it was destroyed instead of appreciated. So much work, energy and creative expression is needed to bring art to the playa. It's heartbreaking and depressing to have it just destroyed. Please know that we loved your art.
thats some mean pieces but why take it to a place full of druggies?
Todd Olsen it is an art installation festival. lol. the entire festival is made of artists and artwork.
you lost me at "i couldn't believe". you put priceless artwork within arms reach of thousands and thousands of intoxicated, unsupervised young people, and somehow didn't expect this would happen. while i was watching the previous video, i knew as soon as i saw the set-up that this would happen within HOURS of the start of the festival. how that escaped you i don't know. your artwork is bloody amazing and doesn't deserve this kind of defiling, but there's no way such a smart man could've overlooked precaution.
You're absolutely right; I was far too trusting. Call it naive or stupidity. But for the record, the perpetrator was not some unsupervised young person. He was described as being about 40. Was he under the influence of something? Quite possibly, but we’ll probably never know.
So does that mean we should hide away all of the beautiful art for no one to see?
+TheSirGoreaxe. See? No. Touch? Probably (at least until the person is vetted). To think otherwise is to deny the reality of this world.
Fyodor Dostoyevsky > Quotes > Quotable Quote
Fyodor Dostoyevsky
“Shower upon him every earthly blessing, drown him in bliss so that nothing but bubbles would dance on the surface of his bliss, as on a sea...and even then every man, out of sheer ingratitude, sheer libel, would play you some loathsome trick. He would even risk his cakes and would deliberately desire the most fatal rubbish, the most uneconomical absurdity, simply to introduce into all this positive rationality his fatal fantastic element...simply in order to prove to himself that men still are men and not piano keys.”
Liberalism isn't naive or stupid. It's a mental disorder.
I love you, human... for many reasons. Your expression, Your ability to provide energy to all of us, Your honesty in being able to let go of the precious above all. Small consolation for the beauty lost you brought our eyes but, the beauty you show in letting go, by putting it in perspective, is a BEAUTY that will live in us and you, forever. Thanks for the point of view and letting us know. Hugs and Dust
As a person who loves art, this was hard to watch, as an artist it made me very angry. I hope you return to building large art installations like this, because one things for sure, this was a beautiful piece of art. Thanks for Sharing it with us
Moral of the story,,,, don't expect satanic heathens to respect your art artist. See through the "dust" for what they are....
Well said.
Yeah apart from all the comments of love and support from people who were there. What a shame to be so narrowminded you just lump everyone who attends as 'satanic heathens'. Your parents clearly failed you.
omg... this comment made me laugh. 😂😂😂
You trumpets are the only satanic cult.
3 Most common causes of mental health issues.
Poor parenting, Drugs, Liberalism.
Vocu
In the spirit of love, I say fuck you
cheap shot
This brought me great sadness, then I saw your "A Woodturner's Dream" and was brought to tears. Burning Man revitalized my need to cry at sadness but more importantly at joy. Your dream, it's visualization, creation, labor, installation, is amazing, and the joy it brought to those who saw it is wondrous. My tears were for this amazement and joy that you created. That is what you must keep in your heart. Burning Man is only a short moment of time and then it ends. Most of Man's work is ephemeral. Piece by piece, what must continue is our individual journey towards love, peace, and joy, and Man's desire to mark that journey through art, your art. This you have achieved, I value it most dearly, and believe it is what and why Burning Man is.
Thank you for your art and for your depth - it saddens me this is happening more these days. Please continue creating your beautiful art! it's needed in the world! Peace!
You wasted your time erecting it at burning man, the whole festival is an idol to gods of fire and destruction. The pieces need to be hung in a a huge shopping mall or public building with cameras and out of reach of drunken revellors! I empathize with you... my brother died in a motorbike accident 1 day after my 46 birthday. We were best friends for nearly fifty years and it was all wasted in a heartbeat. 50 years we supported each other and dragged, laughed and fought each other through the tough times. 2000 hours was a lot of work but you can rebuild with wisdom. Take a burning effigy to burning man, take your best work to an art gallery where it will be appreciated. RIP.
Right..... Which is why I said hang it in a gallery or a museum where it will be appreciated and not climbed on by unruly children.
"Touching, climbing, entering, spinning, engaging and exploring"
I don't see where it says destroying. Can you see it, dumbfuck?
It was very fit for purpose. Just not for that purpose.
you're trying to say that some dumbfuck broke one on accident, then decided to break the rest of everything, because it was encouraged?
You think you know my mind? You do not even know what your mouth is typing!
burning man is just a bunch of junkies partying
bent540 Sorry you feel that way. I'm not a "junkie," nor are any of the 25 people that I camped with, nor are a majority of the attendees. I was there, were you?
Your art was incredibly beautiful! Within my first hour at Burning Man I was swept up in a white out, out on the playa. Your art provided shelter for me when I needed it most. I hope this tragic vandalism doesn't keep you from contributing your craft. Keep doing what you are doing, you are such an amazing creator!
OMG! My heart sank even further when I heard you say you burned the pieces. I wish you had rebuilt it, but as artists we must follow our hearts, even when they are broken. What a truly amazing accomplishment you and your son achieved and what awesome memories you will have of your adventure. It is sad that there are people in this world that have it in them to destroy beauty.
Maybe you will finally understand burningman aint a spiritually righteous event. You got targeted because your a nice person not participating in satanic rituals. better luck next year : )
Did you ever consider that this artist may be an atheist or are you just too narrow minded?
💔 an emotional, well told, heartbreaking story. thank you for the grace with which you dealt with the situation, and persevered to make something beautiful out of destruction. thank you for bringing your beautiful art, and all of the time, effort, money, blood, sweat and tears that you dedicated to it for the public consumption and impact on others. you have inspired people within the community to report on art vandalism, and to actively work toward ways to prevent future destruction.
Oh wow! I would like to congratulate you and your som with such a great project that is so amazing and fantastic in any way a woodworker can imagine. And I wish it was no part 2. I dont know how to say how sad it is.
I am blown away by your work Malcolm. You and your son are beyond experts in your respective creations. Words do not do this masterful creation justice. I watched the part one as well and I'm very disappointed to see this immense undertaking of effort and love was vandalized, what a travesty. That being said, you handled it and spoke of it like a true man. You're an inspiration. Your son is an inspiration. Seriously guys, what talent. You get an A++++ Malcolm! God Bless you, your family and your work.
Hi Malcolm, I was fortunate enough to see your amazing piece of art before the destruction, and unfortunate enough to come across it right after it was destroyed. My condolences to you. I applaud you for your compassion towards the individuals who destroyed it. May you continue to create.
Malcolm, I found these two video's were both awe inspiring and heartbreaking and brought me to tears; first for your amazing work. those pieces were remarkable and bringing us into the work space so that we could participate in the construction was simply cool. Then there was the destruction, well... I don't have words. I am an artist too. I know that I am in the right mindset and my life is in balance when upon waking and laying down to sleep, I am thinking about creating something. Artists have a constant dialogue with the world around them, but for some, they can neither hear nor intuit this conversation. Perhaps those who attacked yours and the work of other artists are angry because they are on the outside looking in. Thank you to you and your son for talking to the rest of us, it was such a beautiful conversation.
Truly inspired by your part 1 video. but when I watched this video I felt truly heartbroken. This hit me hard, because I've also lost someone very close to me.. The artwork is beautiful! Also, thank you so much for sharing this with the rest of the world. Peace and love from Norway.
A damn shame, a sad ending for such a brilliantly conceived and masterfully fashioned work of art.
So much work and love went into that sculpture. Watching you construct it I imagined how much creative flow and fulfillment you experienced shared with your son. Seeing it set up before the festival in all its glory. What a triumph!
Watching your first video I was feeling very very down and your peace gave me a little smile at the images of hope and love watching this video brought a tear to my eye
I am so sorry someone did this to your art after so much hard work and dedication that you put into it. For what it's worth, it was an absolutely beautiful piece of art.
Mr. Tibbetts, I find it disturbing when someone feels the need to destroy things just in an attempt to make themselves feel better.
I only hope that person gets to watch these videos and truly understand the man-hours of skill and dedication you put into your work just so others can look upon it and find some shining moments of happiness or awe, or child like wonder.
I hope he gets to see what he really destroyed.
I hope the dread he feels when the realization of his dead strikes him, and forces him to get real professional help.
I hope that this individual becomes a better person.
I myself thank you for your work, and I thank you for letting the world see you and your process and your art.
God bless you and your family sir.
Such a very heartbreaking moment indeed after spending so much time doing the work
Thank you for the beautiful art that you shared! The art may have been temporary but the memories will last a long time
Your accomplishments and purpose remain forever a success, not physically anymore but digitally in your first video and in the minds of all who understand.
Congratulations! And thank you.
Malcolm, your art installation was lovely. I think one of the lessons of a burn is that everything is temporary, and the most important part of art is not its preservation, but the effect that it has on those that view it. By those measurements, your piece had a profound effect on someone, if not the effect that you planned or wanted. The damage didn't end your art, only changed its message. I know that it can be heartbreaking to spend so much time, love and energy on a piece only to have things go wrong at the end, but I think your hard work was not wasted -- it's still touching people today after all.
I'd trade in my heart to see that this display were back to full glory and within proximity of those who would appreciate your extreme talents. Such both a beautiful and tragic story. I pity the vandal for their destruction, but you Sir are such a glory. Thanks for uploading the videos. It's been a privilege to see this online.
Truly inspirational! I hope you keep building and I hope you come back. The burn needs more people like you.
I am sorry that your beautiful work was vandalized. I truly appreciate your perspective that you shared regarding the man who ended his life. You can continue on creating more beautiful pieces but his time is over. I am in a small Florida town but was able to view this and have been inspired to start a project with my son. You have an amazing talent and vision to create.
The whole idea of Burning Man is the end of things. All the motions, lights and sounds leading up to the burn. Joy and sorrow, the orgies of life, the communal heap grows, pile it high.