Steve Mobia was amongst the original Cacophony Society members who went on the "zone trip" to Black Rock Desert in 1990.

In 1993, he placed the first lanterns on the playa, illuminating the procession to lower, and then re-raise and burn the Man.

In 1994, Larry Harvey arranged for two towers to be built to hold the lamps, and the Lamplighter tradition was born. He continued leading the tradition until 1997.

In addition to creating the Lamplighter tradition, Steve helped create desert fashion shows, which continue today, take large format photographs documenting the early playa happenings, and helped create the first pirate radio station – hosting a program of experimental music called "Mobia's Trip".

He was the first Lamplighter, organizing and running the Lamplighters from 1994-1999. His flaming helmet is now part of Burning Man's historical archives.

More information about Steve and his work can be found on his website.