The South Africa C.O.R.E. contribution at Burning Man 2012 is a beautiful 20ft fertility doll – named Jozi. She signifies our shared heritage in Africa and the birthplace of humankind.

Although fertility dolls take on many forms across the continent, they have a collective reverence and are not considered toys. They are objects laden with ritual and religious associations within the community.

Jozi stands a majestic 20ft high and is adorned in the traditional colors of the Ndebele – a society and culture interwoven with a unique artistic style. Visitors will be able to rest on cushions in her skirted shade to relax and reflect, perhaps even leaving a message of hope and inspiration in this haven of Fertility 2.0, the theme for Burning Man 2012. Constructed out of wood using geometric designs and lit with sophisticated LED lighting, she will be a true vision at night.

More than 50 South African burners and friends from all over the world are collaborating to bring Jozi to life. This is a huge undertaking by a committed team and your support will help contribute to the cost of wood, equipment and lighting.

Several months of collaboration with artists and engineers has evolved the design. Assembly begins in Reno in August at the Salvagery, in collaboration with the International Arts Megacrew. The build team will then make the final journey to Black Rock City where Jozi will be completed. She will join the 33 other regional effigies, her spirit having traveled more than 10,000 miles to bring her love to the playa.

Thank you in advance for your support!

To support the Jozi project, and for more info, visit the KickStarter page
 Facebook? Go here: http://www.facebook.com/JoziCORE

WHAT IS ‘CORE’?

“The Circle of Regional Effigies (CORE) is comprised of 34 wooden effigies created by Burning Man Regional groups from around the world. Guided by the Ten Principles, CORE teams work together throughout the Spring and Summer to create art that celebrates their Regional identities and showcases the collaborative artistic efforts of their community members. The CORE Project is a celebration of Burning Man’s Regional Network and of the work that groups throughout the world are doing to nurture and support the Burning Man ethos as a global cultural movement.”
– from Burning Man’s CORE page. Read more on the Burning Man website.