Transformus is Asheville’s version of Burning Man

The Transformus festival is Asheville’s version of Burning Man. It’s coming up in July at Deerfields in the Mills River community. Here’s a description of what it’s all about:

Transformus, as an experiment in community building and social alternatives, practices radical inclusion and respects the benefits of diversity. There are no prerequisites and no one will be turned away based on any social “labels”. All are welcome to participate in our community. It will be the duty of every citizen to do his or her best to practice acceptance and tolerance of other citizens no matter how strange or different their styles, practices, or ideas may be.

Transformus operates on a combination of self-reliance and a gift economy. Acts of gift giving may take any form. Gifts are given unconditionally without expectation of a return or exchange.

Together, as a community, we will build and live in the temporary city of Mysteria, and all participants are considered to be full and equal citizens. We recognize that every individual has something to contribute and participates in their own way. As a Citizen of Mysteria you will be granted all the rights and freedoms we can bestow upon you while still obeying all applicable local, state, & national laws and respecting the safety of the community and needs of the land owners. All citizens must follow all applicable laws and community guidelines.

It is also the duty of every citizen to pack it in, pack it out, and communally cooperate to leave no trace. When attending Transformus or any of the Mysteria community regional events, please respect and practice these principles which we hold dear.

Please respect your neighbors, your fellow citizens and their personal property. Treat every citizen with respect and dignity, and respect their personal boundaries. Every citizen has the right to say no, and that right must be respected, this includes the right to not be touched or not have your photograph taken. Violent behavior will not be tolerated. If you have an issue or dispute with another citizen, either leave the area or request assistance from a ranger so that they may assist in resolving the dispute in a peaceful manner.

Images whether photographs or video, of any Transformus or Mysteria community event should never be used for profit. All community made and collaborated artwork and literary work should never be sold commercially unless it is for the benefit of the entire community itself. As a citizen it is your duty to help the community evolve by participating. You are an ambassador of Mysteria and your actions will be representative of the community as whole, we hope you will be a good citizen.