From Playa to Pavement

Nestled in the heart of Columbus, Ohio where the heartbeat of community and culture thrums loudly, The Autonomy Project stands as a beacon of what can be achieved when the radical principles of Burning Man are stitched into the fabric of everyday life. This isn't just about emulating a festival; it's about igniting change and building an empowered community from the ground up.

After all, how could an entirely volunteer run organization thrive in the conservative and confined Midwest?

the 10 principles in action

Each of the 10 Principles of Burning Man is a one of the guiding lights in our mission.

Radical Inclusion ensures that anyone who steps through our doors feels welcomed and valued, regardless of background or identity. Gifting and Decommodification drive us to value community over profit, creating a space where support and resources flow freely without expectation of return.

Radical Self-expression and Communal Effort are at the core of our workshops and events, from queer art collectives to empowerment at every angle. Here, every voice has the power to resonate, and every hand helps to weave our communal tapestry. Civic Responsibility calls us to engage responsibly with our local area, ensuring our operations enrich the social and environmental fabric of Columbus.



Participation is vital, for the magic of The Autonomy Project is activated through the active engagement of our volunteers and community members. Everyone is invited to contribute, to learn, and to teach, blurring the lines between facilitators and participants. This dynamic fosters a unique ecosystem where Immediacy of experience enriches each interaction, encouraging members to live fully in the now, immersed in growth and discovery.

The Ripple effect

True to the principle of Radical Self-reliance, The Autonomy Project is powered by the passionate efforts of volunteers. These dedicated individuals are not just helping hands; they are the heart and soul of our organization. They drive our mission, manage our events, and shape our future, proving that when a community comes together, anything is possible.

We take Civic Responsibility this seriously. We're not just a community within walls; we reach out, give back, and take care of each other and our broader community, ensuring everything we do is safe, legal, and in the best interest of all involved.

What began as an inspired idea has flourished into a vital community resource that challenges the status quo and fosters a new culture of inclusivity and empowerment in Columbus. Our vision extends beyond city limits, hoping to inspire other communities to embrace these principles. We believe in a world where every individual has the space to express themselves authentically, where community support is ubiquitous, and where creativity and connection dismantle barriers.

At The Autonomy Project, we're not just hosting events; we're cultivating a movement. We're proving that the spirit of Burning Man can ignite lasting change in the 'default world.' We invite you to join us, to become part of this transformative journey, and to see for yourself how powerful these principles can be when lived daily.

Find us at Regionals!

You can find many of us at local Regional Burns, such as Mosaic Experiment or Lakes of Fire. We run the Cozy Chateau, an inviting chill space with tea, music, classes, and much more.