Dark Mofo

Dark Mofo is an annual arts and music festival held in Hobart, Tasmania, Australia. It is a winter festival, typically running for two weeks in June, and is presented by the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA). Dark Mofo explores themes of darkness, mythology, sex, death, and rebirth, often through large-scale public art installations, musical performances, and ancient rituals.

The festival is known for its provocative and sometimes controversial programming, which aims to challenge audiences and provoke thought. Common elements include the Nude Solstice Swim in the River Derwent, a community-based event where participants swim naked at dawn on the winter solstice; the burning of an effigy, often representing anxieties and fears; and a wide range of musical acts, from experimental noise to established international artists.

Dark Mofo has become a significant cultural event for Tasmania, attracting large numbers of tourists and contributing significantly to the local economy. It has also generated debate and discussion about the role of art in society, the expression of challenging ideas, and the potential for cultural events to drive tourism and economic development. Despite facing criticism and controversies at times, Dark Mofo remains a unique and highly influential festival in the Australian cultural landscape.