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Headwaters

Headwaters is our 2026 Honoraria project for Burning Man.

The project is a large bamboo meditation labyrinth inspired by Mount Kailash, often revered as the axis mundi. The work explores themes of origin, convergence, and inner alignment, offering a space for reflection, manifestation, and meeting oneself in a moment of stillness.

Headwaters will be at Burning Man 2026

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s y m b o l i s m

Headwaters is inspired by the spiritual symbolism of Mount Kailash, revered as the axis mundi—the cosmic center linking heaven and earth. 

The use of bamboo poles rising gradually in height, is meant to create a sense of ascension and rhythm—as if the earth itself were flowing upward toward the heavens. The deepening blue color gradient expresses the four rivers originating near Mount Kailash. This chromatic flow suggests rivers originating at a single point, guiding participants inward toward clarity and intention -  in alignment with the universal axis.

Cantilevering from baseplates, the bamboo gently sways, introducing a subtle kinetic quality that both animates the space and evokes the fluidity of the four rivers.

The labyrinth's form emphasizes journey over destination: there is no direct path to the center, encouraging slow navigation and mindful engagement.

p a r t i c i p a t i o n

The playa isn't short for engaging experiences, but it is often difficult to find a quiet moment to think about the experience itself. 

Headwaters is meant to create a  quiet moment in which people can set an intention, manifestation, or just reflect on their experience.  

m a t e r i a l

'Headwaters' will be composed of hundreds of bamboo poles delineating the walking path meandering in an indirect route to the center. The poles will cantilever from CNC cut baseplates and assembled like puzzle pieces.   

The bamboo poles vary in height, rising to their maximum at the innermost circle.

Utilizing bamboo introduces a natural texture, while its repetition generates a striking vertical forest-like effect.   At night, the poles will be illuminated.  The visual impact is both monumental and meditative—an interplay of geometry, color, and height that invites visitors to slow down and participate.

s u p p o r t

It takes a lot of support to bring Headwaters to the Playa.  There will be unforeseen challenges and financial obstacles, so we could use your help!

 

Interested in supporting your knowledge, time, or equipment?

​​We'd love to hear from you!

Donate to Headwaters

We are greatly honored to be a 2026 Honoraria Grant recipient, however our grant does not cover the entirety our our proposed project costs. 

 

Every donation will help us cover remaining project costs including the following:

  • truck rental and transportation

  • LED installation equipment

  • essential gear for keeping us safe during build

  • solar array / power equipment

  • steel brackets and fixings

  • fuel for our travels out to the Playa

The easiest way to donate to our project is by direct transfer (NZ) or Venmo (US). 

If donating in New Zealand please contact anyone from the Headwaters crew directly,

text (+64) 029 022 38774 or email msalignedcreative@gmail.com

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Bandana Fundraiser

We have a limited number of our commemorative Headwaters, Axis Mundi 2026 bandanas for donors of $36 or more

Follow these steps:

1. NZ friends - easiest way is to connect with us! DM, call, or email for bank transfer/address info exchange

2. US friends - Venmo is the easiest way, see QR code above. 

DM, call, or email for other means of donating

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Follow our Progress

Connect with our Instagram to keep up with project progress and updates!

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Call 

+64 029-022-38774

Email 

msalignedcreative@gmail.com

Instagram

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