This week, I chose to explore the dynamic parts of my project by creating hinged beams which would move once a rope which held their initial position burnt. I expected to fail during this test, yet I was successful in obtaining the desired effect on my first try. I also expected to fail in igniting the sculpture, however the combination of materials used in this test (paper towels, scrap wood, twine, and cardboard) worked as great fuel, not burning too fast or too slow.
Of course, the area I thought I was fully prepared for, fire protection, is where I failed. This didn’t result in any unintended fires because of the location, however, it led to me rethink the location of my final burn. I originally intended to light the sculpture on the edge of a lake but after seeing small embers jump from the sculpture, I began to worry about potential wildfires. Therefore, I will instead light the sculpture on a beach where there is no forestry or flammable objects in close proximity.
I have also narrowed down my final sculpture design so something that mimics the shape of the sun. There will be a spherical center and dynamic “rays” extruding from the sculpture. I am planning to record the final burn at sunset, with the sculpture placed in front of the sun.
Looking good so far! I am glad you were able to get the burning effect you were looking for.
As for the ember concern – you can try using tree bark instead of paper towels. I have used birch tree bark before, it peels off really easy, but I do not know where you live so I cannot speak for the trees that you will have access to.
Also, location wise, is there someone you can talk to about where you could do this? My beach is a state park so there are rangers, but I do not know about your beach. It could be a good way to get ideas.
Your progress is awesome! It’s super cool seeing a physical prototype burning. I also think you can have more confidence that you won’t start any fires by building a protective enclosure around your piece (which could also be part of the art)