After a decade of growing success, Dark Mofo organisers have announced that the festival will pause in 2024 for a period of renewal. Taking a fallow year, Dark Mofo intends to reshape a more sustainable model for a full return in 2025, and set the foundation for the next 10 years.
Despite achieving record attendances and box office results this year, it is essential for organisers to take stock of changing conditions and rising costs, in order to reset the festival for the future.
The festival organisers announced that they have, however, reached an agreement with the State Government to present two important aspects of the festival in 2024: Winter Feast and Nude Solstice Swim. These two key events will also coincide with the opening of a new major exhibition at the Museum of Old and New Art (Mona).
Dark Mofo Artistic Director Chris Twite said the State Government had been proactive in offering solutions to proceed with the festival in 2024.
But ultimately the organisers opted for a reduced scope that would honour Dark Mofo’s strong commitment to local community and small businesses, and give the organisation the time and space to set the stage for another decade of darkness.
“We are thankful for the support and assistance that the State Government has shown in response to our need to reshape for the future,” said Chris Twite. “Dark Mofo has always been dedicated to enriching and transforming lives through ambitious art and ideas.
“We want to make sure that we have a festival that continues to deliver incredible art and artists, that continues to expand its artistic boundaries and remains a beacon of creativity, innovation, and cultural significance.”
“While this was a tough decision, it ensures we move forward in a viable manner. The fallow year will enable us to secure the future of Dark Mofo and its return at full force in 2025.”
“We are excited that in June 2024 – amidst the rebirth and renewal of Dark Mofo – that Tasmanians and visitors alike will still be able to meet and commune around the fires of Winter Feast and cast off the weight of another year at the Nude Solstice Swim once more,” he said.
Dates for the 2024 Winter Feast and Nude Solstice Swim will be announced soon. For more information, visit: www.darkmofo.net.au for details.
Image: City of Hobart Dark Mofo Winter Feast 2023 – photo by Jesse Hunniford