Facing The Fear Beast (TW: Suicide)

It's hard to know how to feel when someone special chooses to exit.

I am swirling in emotions as I process the suicide of Tigre Mashaal-Lively, the artist behind, “Facing The Fear Beast.”

It was the piece of Burning Man art that moved me the most.

Photo by Douglas Hooper Photography.

The child in the mouth would light up when the child facing the fear beast was given human connection.

And the haunting crowd-sourced soundscape of "You're worthless!" messages changed to, "You can do it!" type phrases.

First time I saw the child light up and heard the audio change - I burst into tears.

I have been surprised how many people also felt this piece was their favorite. Knowing that I made multiple visits to such a beloved piece actually takes a little sting away from how much FOMO I had from missing art this year.

But Tigre’s choice to mic-drop so dramatically is hard to process.

I hope you’ll listen to my thoughts on the suicide and my “exit interview” offer. And know that wherever you are, I’m rooting for you. And I look forward to the next time we have a chance to share a nice long hug.

Love,
Halcyon