2026 Theme: The Art of Becoming
Art is, at its core, transformation. As a culture of creative alchemy, Burning Man embraces and offers the potential for transformation. As community organizers and changemakers, we inspire positive social transformation, human connection, and a reimagination of society.
After 40 years of Burning Man culture embracing change as creative practice, this ELS’s theme “The Art of Becoming” invites you to ask: Where do we want to go from here? How can we amplify our impact through collective becoming?
Participation-First Approach
The ELS is practicing the art of becoming itself. This year, we are seeking to evolve the ELS into its most participatory iteration yet, a laboratory for collective transformation, where European leaders actively participate in reimagining what the Burning Man network can become.
As you consider offering something, ask yourself: How can this session be shaped by the people who participate in it? What are the pathways for engagement that I would like to offer?
Content Tracks: Four Journeys of Becoming
- Personal Becoming: Individual leadership and skills development
- Local Becoming: Regional events & projects, organizational development and community building
- Network Becoming: Working together across the global Burning Man community
- Societal Becoming: Burning Man culture’s impact on the wider world
Ways to Contribute
- Interactive Sessions: Facilitate participatory workshops, panels, and experiences
- Deep Dive Working Sessions: Multi-day collaborative problem-solving intensives
- Play & Connection: Mind & movement labs, creative workshops, networking activities
- Evening Magic: Performances, cultural exchanges, social experiments
- Installation Art: Visual art to be on display during the gathering
Ready to Co-create?
- Visit the ELS 2026 Call for Interactivity Guide for more information.
- Preview session and art questions here: Web version | Google Document
- Submit session proposals here by 15 January 2026. Art proposals welcome by 31 January 2026. Multiple entries are welcome—please complete one form per idea. All submissions will be reviewed by 22 February 2026.