TOP TIPS FOR DARK MOFO 2016

Dark Park. Credit: Jared Mendem

He’s wearing stripy PJs and has drawing pencil in hand. I won’t say what’s in his other hand. He seems nonchalant about what the possums have delivered about his studio, in Willow Court’s Female Maximum Security Ward for the Criminally Insane. His bed is nearby. This is the opening of Dark Mofo 2016.

1. ENTRY BY MIRROR ONLY
There’s few events where you’re invited, but only with the accompaniment of a ‘shard of glass.’ Some generously brought cumbersome home mirror shards, others scoured the tip shops and some arrived with petite make-up mirrors. None of them knew what to expect. After all, this is the beauty of Dark Mofo. There were flames flickering, gorgeously tender Agrarian Kitchen meat, and a performing artist by the name of Mike Parr. He’ll be positioned in New Norfolk for 72 hours straight. He doesn’t wish for dollars, but for you to leave behind a mirror. Just visit him.

2. FIELD LINES
According to a Mona insider, you mustn’t miss Cameron Robbins. He’s an Aussie artist, and he’s all about natural forces. You’ll find his drawings, sound and video work, along with photography and sculpture that spans 25 years. Keep an eye out for Field Lines.

3. DARK PARK
It’s the centrepiece in a way, and has everything from the TSO Chorus singing in tune with the stars through to a departing ceremony where you can burn up your fears. (Ogoh-Ogoh) That all sounds complex, but we have a friend singing with the TSO who assures us it’s possible to sing along to the rising and setting of stars. Who knew? Of course there’s lots more. All of this runs from June 10-19.

Liza-Jane Sowden - Tourism Tasmania

4. TEMPEST OR NUDIE TEMPTATION
There’s shipwrecks and all kinds of stories happening at TMAG (Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery) so head along to explore alongside good food and warming fires. Alternately, be tempted by the winter solstice swim on June 21. Okay, you have the choice, head for the museum on the waterfront or dive into the Derwent…..what would David Walsh suggest?

Oh then there’s Night Garden Undergrowth, Dark Mofo Films, Heart of Darkness….we could go on. Just rug up and get amongst the Dark Mofo spirit. Or go out on that Red Ship below....the Odalisque with Tasmanian Boat Charters, head out with Mark on board Hobart Yachts or have a floaty sleep over with Bray on board Cruise Tasmania.
http://www.cruisetasmania.com.au/

Words & images Alice Hansen