Rachel Fox

12" buoy

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This buoy was inspired by my first ever solo camping trip to Joshua Tree National Park. In December 2023, one of my favorite punk bands, Fidlar, was performing near the national park. Unfortunately, none of my friends were available to go with me, so I decided to turn it into a solo weekend trip. I was a little nervous, as I had never camped by myself before, but I was determined to see this band. I loaded up my car and drove two hours into the desert. When I arrived I pitched my tent and then headed off to find the concert venue, Pappy and Harriets. I followed the GPS deeper into the desert and started to lose cell service. Now I'm alone in the middle of nowhere without service, no sense of direction, and unsure of where I would end up. After about 20 more minutes of driving, I saw dim lights in the distance. The venue was just a lone standing, small, wood building. I went inside and was able to get a front row seat to see Fidlar play. IT WAS AWESOME! After the concert, I drove back to my campsite and laid down on the floor of the tent (I forgot to pack a sleeping pad). I just felt so alive and happy. As I was laying on the ground, I decided I wanted to try and wake up early to see if there was a good sunrise. In my opinion, sunrises are much more beautiful than sunsets. The quietness of the world waking up is so peaceful, whereas sunsets can feel a bit too busy. My alarm went off around 6am and I poked my head out of the tent. What I saw was the most beautiful sunrise I have ever seen, and that's what I tried to portray on my buoy. To think I would've missed this incredible moment, missed this incredible trip, if I didn't have the courage to go alone. Now, whenever life presents me with an opportunity to experience something wonderful, even if I have to go alone, I'm going anyway.