The mission of Five Ton Crane is to inspire, empower, and unite individuals in the conception and creation of public art. Serving as a catalyst, our initiatives drive education, foster collaboration, promote community service, and ignite a sense of empowerment, harnessing the transformative potential of public art for individuals and communities.
The richly layered scene is a moment frozen in time where a sinking ship spills cargo into the sea. Treasure and flaming whiskey casks float in the waves while a curious and fearsome Sea Serpent approaches the wreck, looking for something. What has happened here? Has the serpent sunk the ship? Or is he looking for someone or something to save? What can we learn about the enigmatic captain from her quarters? From her research equipment and journals? What do we suppose the serpent is looking for, knowing he is of a lineage of treasure protecting Nagas? What is treasure? When everything could be lost, what should we choose to save?
In the tradition of Five Ton Crane this project is a collaborative endeavor of dozens of artists who will be building the metal serpent, the wooden ship, and all of the treasure. With playful whimsey and the highest attention to detail, this piece will debut at Burning Man 2024 before journeying on to other public or private destinations for temporary and eventual permanent placement.
While we recognize there are many worthy causes in these difficult times, we believe art is a respite, a balm to the soul, and most importantly a community building activity. Our team consists of over 75 skilled and unskilled artisans, many who are industry professionals and many others learning a skill for the first time. Together we are engineers, illustrators, fabricators and storytellers, and together we can bring not only truly unique art into the world, but strengthen the trades and network of artists in the Bay Area and beyond.