As the winter solstice approaches, Tasmania gears up for the much-anticipated Dark Mofo festival, set to take place from 11 to 22 June 2026. This year’s celebration promises a unique highlight: a reimagined version of Loris Gréaud’s enigmatic film, *Sculpt*, featuring acclaimed actor Willem Dafoe. However, this is not just any screening. The film can only be viewed by one person at a time, adding an air of exclusivity that fits perfectly with Dark Mofo’s ethos of extraordinary and unconventional art experiences.
A Rare Cinematic Opportunity
The film *Sculpt*, which premiered in 2016 at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, has garnered a reputation for its scarcity. It is believed that only around 500 individuals worldwide have had the opportunity to view the film, a figure that remains ambiguous due to Gréaud’s controversial decision to distribute copies via hackers on the dark web.
At Dark Mofo, festival-goers will have the chance to experience a new edit, intriguingly titled *Sculpt: Eye of the Duck*. This singular screening will take place at a secret location outside Hobart, further heightening the allure of the event. On performance days, attendees can queue for one of nine exclusive slots, where they will be whisked away to a remote, unused facility to view the 50-minute film in complete solitude. In total, there will be 90 opportunities to partake in this rare cinematic experience, with extra spots available for those willing to wait in case of no-shows.
“In a world where screens are everywhere and everything’s infinitely accessible, there’s something to be said about a screen-based work that is almost impossible to see,” remarked Chris Twite, festival director. His words encapsulate the essence of Dark Mofo: a celebration of the strange, the beautiful, and the hard-to-find.
A Diverse Artistic Line-Up
Beyond the singular experience of *Sculpt*, this year’s festival features a rich tapestry of performances and installations that challenge conventions. Among the highlights are kinetic installations and provocative performances from a variety of international artists, including Spanish choreographer Candela Capitán and Mexican performer Kiyo Gutiérrez. Unconventional venues, such as a massive cruise ship moored at the waterfront, will host these artistic spectacles.
Capitán’s work, *SOLAS*, will see dancers performing in front of laptops streaming live from the adult webcam platform Chaturbate, blending the realms of art and technology in a provocative manner. Meanwhile, Gutiérrez will present two compelling pieces that confront the violence of state-imposed borders, inviting audiences to reflect on the human cost of such divisions.
Australia will also be well represented, with notable artists like Hayley Millar Baker and Abdul-Rahman Abdullah contributing thought-provoking installations. Abdullah’s piece, *The Dogs*, promises to be both visually striking and thematically resonant, while Vipoo Srivilasa’s neon text installation will touch on themes of loss and despair following personal turmoil.
A Musical Feast
Dark Mofo’s music programme adds another layer of richness to the festival. It features exclusive performances from international artists such as New York rapper Princess Nokia, Glaswegian producer Sega Bodega, and Texan thrash metal band Power Trip. Australia’s own talent will shine through as well, with performances from artists like Ninajirachi, Baker Boy, and the Folk Bitch Trio, ensuring a diverse auditory experience that complements the visual arts.
Among the festival’s returning traditions are the annual winter solstice nude swim, the Ogoh-ogoh parade, and the vibrant Night Mass party—events that have become synonymous with Dark Mofo’s unique spirit.
A Spotlight on Latin American Artists
This year’s festival notably highlights a significant presence of Latin American artists. Twite commented on their growing importance: “They’re making really interesting things, and they’re maybe not as represented in Australian festivals and galleries.” This focus not only diversifies the festival’s offerings but also acknowledges the colonial histories that many of these artists grapple with in their work.
Among the festival-specific commissions is a new performance by Regina José Galindo, a survivor of the Guatemalan civil war, which will explore the lingering pain of conflicts that fade from public consciousness. Meanwhile, Dutch artist Boris Acket will present an ambitious sound installation that aims to envelop audiences in a dynamic experience of sound and light.
Why it Matters
The Dark Mofo festival serves as a vital platform for artistic expression, fostering a dialogue about contemporary issues through the lens of avant-garde art. By showcasing works that challenge traditional viewing formats and confront societal norms, the festival not only entertains but also provokes thought and reflection. The inclusion of rare works like Gréaud’s *Sculpt* reinforces the festival’s commitment to providing audiences with experiences that are not just enjoyable but also transformative. In a world increasingly dominated by fleeting digital content, events like Dark Mofo remind us of the power and importance of art that requires patience, introspection, and a willingness to engage with the unfamiliar.
