Rock On, Rock ON! The Balanced Rock Art of Bill Dan:
I know there are rational explanations for this, know that an engineer with a computer and a couple of calibrators could calculate the exact angle and intersection of repose. But that’s beside the point.
This looks cool, but must require a lot of patience.
Update: They have a page about my name, Cairns:
The simplest cairns are often a single stack of rocks intended to mark a path, a territory, or a specific site. The intent is utility and meaning, rather than art. Those who place them are thinking of those who will come after. Those who find and follow them are trusting travelers who went before.
(Thanks, Pender)
I thought this had to be fake, until I watched video of the guy balancing the rocks, which could still be faked, but it’s cool.
That’s freakin’ wicked! I’m going to be a professional rock stacker upper when I grow up!
Jody,
The “patience” which you expect is required only during the initial practice period and under high wind or crumbly rock conditions. Once you know what a stably balanced rock is going to feel like to your hands (and arms, back, and legs, if you’re going for a big one), it can be a quick trick. People are often as startled by the speed with which I do a simple one as by the end result, if I’m balancing where someone can see me. Bill Dan, the focus of the website you reviewed and which I sponsor, design, and maintain, does his publicly and with great art and skill. Still, he can do a complex balanced piece within minutes.
I’m going to have to try this. I remember doing it as a kid, usually while at a rocky beach with round rocks that are probably the worst kind of rocks to attempt this. Balancing one rock on top of another probably isn’t two hard; more than that I can imagine being difficult.
Jody, I’ve posted a new Cairns page entry — one your readers might sympathize with:
Peace Cairn.
Daliel