Temple of Transformance
Michael designed this for George Mason University in 2015. He also engineered and fabricated the floating burn platforms that held the structure and the weight of all visitors. It was burned and broadcast on television (Local News: NBC, CBS). Mr. Verdon crowdfunded the resources, received grants, and led an army of volunteers.
It stood for 3 weeks, gathering stories and offering sanctuary to all. On May 8, 2015, a thousand people gathered around Mason Pond to see the fire event. It was burned on CBS and NBC during the nightly news.
Michael got through every hurdle in permitting with the state and local authorities. He worked tirelessly to bring this into being while working with all stakeholders. George Mason University also has a historically no-bonfires policy around events, however, through his care and dedication, Mr. Verdon made it possible.
NBC’s Julie Carey’s Coverage of the Project