Merope II is a 13-foot tall, seven-pointed star sculpture that transforms fire into a participatory art experience. Named after the faintest star in the Pleiades constellation, Merope II invites visitors to activate bursts of flame by pressing interactive buttons. Each of the star's seven points responds with powerful "poofs" of fire, while the sculpture's center occasionally dazzles with a shimmering spray of "pixie dust" sparks. Crafted from stainless steel with intricate cut patterns, Merope II is as much a kinetic sculpture as it is a communal fire ritual, inviting participants to choreograph their own symphony of light and heat.

About the artist: Flaming Lotus Girls (FLG) is a San Francisco-based, female-driven, volunteer collective that has been creating large-scale kinetic fire art since 2000. Their interactive sculptures blend sculpture, robotics, pyrotechnics, and electronic technologies, transforming viewers into active participants. FLG’s collaborative process empowers people of all skill levels to learn fabrication, fire safety, and creative leadership. Their iconic works have appeared at Burning Man, museums, and festivals worldwide, fostering a culture of hands-on learning and shared creative expression.