Burning Man flame effects specialist DaveX on how to play with fire -- safely

As members of Burning Man's Fire Arts Safety Team, DaveX and Eric Smith are combined experts in the fields of pyrotechics and flame effects. Together, Smith, chief inspector for the state of Nevada LP-Gas Board, and DaveX, licensed California pyrotechnic operator, saw a need for safety education in the design and execution of fire art.

This weekend, Smith and DaveX will teach a two-day workshop on these topics at The Fusion Factory, along with a Saturday evening meet-and-greet at Trace Gallery. In advance of these gatherings, DaveX spoke with Westword about his fourteen years overseeing fire arts at Burning Man and his certification in the world of flame effects.

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