Assaf Allouche Interview: Positive Reactor

Here is an inside look at Assaf Allouche’s Project: Positive Reactor which made its debut at Burning Man 2019.

1.How long did the project take to build?

3 weeks.  

2. What was the inspiration behind the project?

It’s all built of endless triangle - one of the strongest form in nature - it represents the Sacred triangle human relationship that produces oxytocin - an act of good and love between two people, and the observer of such act, all three get a boost of oxytocin ❤️

It is a call to love to interact, to do good, actively! - by doing that even a stranger feels love and is being encouraged by himself to repeat this behavior. 

3. What is your favorite part about the project?

The floating centerpiece. 

4. How many people were involved in the building process?

12 on average. 

5. Were there any complications in building the project?

Nothing major, Unexpected shortage of hardware and lumber is a major headache when the closest Home Depot is 300 miles away...

6. What are the materials involved in building the project/ where did you get the materials?

The main piece is made of totally uncut Stock lumber, common nails screws and straps. We got it all from the local Home Depot. 

Square One Camp donates most of the material, as well as the workplace to pre-build the parts. They also donated the transportation to/out of the playa. I’d like to thank them x1000 - It wouldn’t be there without them.

Lighting came from Ali Express :-) 

7. Any fun/unique stories surrounding the project?

During the burn, A couple came one day to invite my friend from Moscow to their wedding 👰 🎩 

They said they found the perfect place and are inviting anyone who would like to attend... I was there and they said I’m welcome as well, when we asked for the location, they gave us the coordinates of our piece ... and started telling us how wonderful it is and how the idea behind it is so special and sync with their own story ❤️🥰❤️

8. Were there any complications at Burning Man?

Secondary Logistic is a nightmare... make sure you have everything you need plus some more... I think my gift for next burn will be to set up a truck that will run from Home Depot to playa every day for a week! 

9. How has the public reacted to your art after Burning Man?

We got so much love during the burn, but the really amazing stuff started coming when the burn was over and we are still receiving it.

Engineering Spotlight

Positive Reactor is where #functionality and #aesthetic come in hand in hand to create this amazing sculpture. The load path of Positive Reactor is extremely sexy, every member in the sculpture is aesthetically and #structurally playing a very important role. Positive Reactor uses a lot of #repeated patterns which made it easy to build and erect. This project was among the easiest to engineer as Assaf’s design was very #efficient and didn’t require much altering. Next time you get a chance to be around this sculpture think about how everything is #supported and then ask us if you have any questions. Also, the Rbhu team loves Assaf, he is an amazing artist and person!