Dispensing Influence by Gerry Laureus, Antwan Calderon, Daquan Carathers, and The Black Flame Collective from Queens, NY: a 7-foot gumball machine on top of a 13-foot wide, and approximately 5-foot tall heptagon structure with steps leading up to the machine, like up to an altar. The clear dome holds hundreds of miniature heads, each symbolizing an #orisha , a Yoruba deity, in one of seven vibrant colors. Participants turn the metal crank, dispensing a "gumball" that represents divine influence and heritage, and invites curiosity, sparking reflection on the sacred and cultural legacy encased within.
‘The philosophy behind "Dispensing Influence" is rooted in the exploration of spiritual legacy, cultural influence, and the randomness of fate’ said
@gerrywitag_ . 'The act of turning the crank to receive a head is a metaphor for how influence—divine, cultural, and ancestral—can enter our lives unexpectedly, yet with purpose. It invites participants to reflect on the way spiritual power transcends the physical, impacting our paths in subtle yet profound ways.
To me, this piece is an expression of reverence for African heritage and Yoruba cosmology, blending ancient wisdom with a modern, interactive format. I hope to communicate to participants the significance of cultural connection, the randomness of divine influence, and the shared experience of heritage. By making the sacred accessible, "Dispensing Influence" encourages people to reflect on how identity, faith, and culture shape who we are and how we navigate the world.'
I had such a blast working with #GerryLaureus ,
@freeac_4 ,
@daquan_mc_ and the whole
@TheblackflameCollective - what a rad bunch of #burningman artists!?
@dispensinginfluence was a great project: visually stunning and at the same time teaching our entire community more about #yoruba culture.
Can’t wait to see what #TheBlackFlameCollective brings next!
Photos/videos:
@happylustig (1);
@gerrywitag_ (2);
@espressobuzz (3); #DispensingInfluence (4, 9);
@autobiographica (5);
@yoms &
@bmir_fm (6, 7);
@silvergeoffrey (8); …
#burningman2025 #blackrockcity #brc #burner #burnergirls #blackburner #blackartist #blackart #thankslarry
