March 2026
Team forming, Bay Area pre-builds begin
The core team began to take shape, and Bay Area pre-build conversations started gathering momentum around design, fabrication, structure, lighting, and support.
Following the build
as it happens.
April 2026
Honoraria grant confirmed
As Above, So Within received a Burning Man Honoraria grant. A major milestone, and the moment the project shifted from vision into committed build reality.
May 2026
Geometry finalized, fabrication method chosen
By May, the Mandelbulb geometry had gone through enough iteration that the overall form was set. During that same period, we researched and tested several fabrication methods, including 3D printing, heat molding, and vacuum forming. By the end of those tests, we chose 3D printing as the clearest path for preserving the geometry and level of detail we wanted.
June 2026
Printers purchased, test prints underway
After choosing 3D printing as the fabrication path, we bought the printers in June and moved into test-print mode. Those prints helped us refine tolerances, validate assembly logic, and keep evolving the design through direct physical feedback.
July 2026
Panel printing has begun
Printing is now underway 24/7. The sculpture is made up of 108 panels, and each panel breaks down into roughly 4 to 6 sub-panels for fabrication. To make that possible, we purchased six A2L printers and started full production in July.
Follow the latest build notes on Instagram, support fabrication through the fundraiser, or view the project in the official 2026 Burning Man art listings.