“The Freedom Dancers” Burning Man 2026
The Freedom Dancers is a large-scale installation of seven 10-foot Tree Lady sculptures, each representing a stage of grief transformed into compassion through movement, color, and light. This project expands the original vision of my 2025 sculpture, Colors of Compassion, which explored emotional healing through color and personal reflection. That concept has now grown into a full circle of transformative figures — a collective journey made visible.
At the center of the installation stands the small Colors of Compassion Buddha, inviting participants to write reflections, identify where they are in their own healing, and contribute their voice to the space. It serves as the heart of the circle, the quiet anchor around which the Freedom Dancers rise.
Surrounding it are the seven Tree Ladies, each carrying a distinct emotional stage and color vibration:
Aurora — The Awakener (Silver/White)
Shock & Denial
The first light breaking through the fog, symbolizing awareness and truth.
Ember — The Heartfire (Red)
Pain
The tender ember of love that remains after loss, glowing at the center of the hurt.
Maris — The Healer (Blue)
Depression
The quiet surrender that softens the heart and brings emotional depth into peace.
Amara — The Illuminator (Violet/Gold)
Acceptance → Compassion
The final expansion into love, wisdom, and freedom.
Solara — The Transformer (Orange)
Anger
Fiery strength channeled into purpose, courage, and creative power.
Lyra — The Seeker (Yellow)
Bargaining
Reaching for clarity; turning questions into hope and alignment.
Verdan — The Grower (Green)
Reconstruction
Life returning — rooting, rising, rebuilding with community support.