Camp Leadership
Camp Captain
Ayanami Hobbes (they/them) is a digital visionary and pioneer in the arts of new psychedelia, based in Brooklyn. A self-described Pixel Shaman and Pirate of Time, Ayanami’s digital psychedelic impressionist works are transcendent, hypnotic meditations on humanity's relationship with the fourth dimension, and celebratory explorations of the arbitrary lines we tend to draw between the organic and the synthetic. A Black, queer, neurodivergent orphan born into white midwestern foster care, Ayanami’s origins are marked by trauma, abuse, prejudice and violence. Reflexively, they are compelled to seek states of beauty, balance, harmony and complexity, all of which regularly manifest in their work. They bring their passion, energy, vibrancy, artistic expression and welcoming and inclusive spirit to LightCult. This will be their 11th burn.
First Mate
Frank Nitty (he/him) was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He attended his first big burn in 2014 and since then has racked up more than 50 visits to Black Rock City and various regional burns. A go-getter and “get it done kinda guy,” Frank relishes bringing big projects to life on the playa. He has been a key member of many theme camps and has worked for Black Rock City’s Box Office and Department of Public Works. When not behind the booth as DJ Illuminati beatz, he enjoys spinning fire and poi. He can’t wait to build something epic with The LightCult: “Get ready to get weird!”
Cardinal of Cheerleaders
Allyssa Milan (she/her) has enchanted and enlivened audiences around the globe as a multi-dimensional poet, performance artist and tantric temple priestess. She is passionate about helping others tap into a core feeling of aliveness through creative expression, ritual and embodied intimacy. Whether at home in New York City or on the playa, Allyssa loves assisting in the curation of events that bring people together in the spirit of connection and celebration. A life-long lover of the arts, she has most recently added DJing to her creative arsenal. She is incredibly excited to bring the magic of The LightCult to life, and cannot wait to see all your fabulous booties shaking on the dance floor
Quartermaster & Cardinal Chef
Daryl Parrett, aka Butch (he/him) is a freelance software developer based on the East Coast. In a previous chapter of life he worked as a fairly accomplished and well-traveled chef. He looks forward to reconnecting with those talents in the playa kitchen. This will be his first jaunt to Burning Man and he’s excited to be a part of the magic.
Cardinal of The LightGallery
Neha Khandke (she/her) is based in Manhattan’s East Village. She is a visual artist inspired by nature, balance and the divine feminine. This will be her first burn, and she can't wait for all the dancing, art, lovely people and adventures!