Dark Mofo 2026 Festival to Present Exclusive Willem Dafoe Film for Solo Audiences
The upcoming Dark Mofo festival in Hobart, Tasmania, scheduled for June 2026, is set to feature a highly unique cinematic experience. A special edit of French artist Loris Gréaud's experimental film, titled Sculpt: Eye of the Duck, will be screened exclusively for one viewer at a time. This film stars acclaimed actors Willem Dafoe and Charlotte Rampling, adding to its allure.
Rare Viewing Opportunity for Limited Audience
Since its premiere at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art in 2016, it is estimated that only around 500 people worldwide have seen Sculpt. The exact number remains uncertain as Gréaud later distributed the files via hackers on the dark web. At Dark Mofo, a mere 90 viewing slots will be available, making this a coveted event for festival attendees.
Each day, nine timed slots will be offered, with hopeful viewers required to queue at a box office in downtown Hobart in the morning. Successful ticket holders will be transported to an undisclosed, remote location outside the city—a disused facility—to watch the 50-minute film. Those who miss out can join a physical waitlist on a bench, in case of no-shows.
Festival Director Highlights Unique Appeal
Chris Twite, the festival director, emphasised the significance of this offering in today's digital age. "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," he stated. This aligns with Dark Mofo's reputation for delivering weird, wonderful, and rare experiences.
Expansive Art and Music Program
Beyond the film, Dark Mofo 2026 boasts a diverse lineup of performances and installations. Highlights include:
- Confronting works by Spanish choreographer Candela Capitán, such as SOLAS, featuring dancers performing live on the Chaturbate platform.
- Mexican performance artist Kiyo Gutiérrez presenting pieces that critique state-imposed borders through physical endurance.
- Australian artists like Hayley Millar Baker and Abdul-Rahman Abdullah contributing to the festival's vibrant art scene.
The festival will also expand its Dark Park art installation onto the Spirit of Tasmania cruise ship, featuring dystopian robot dogs by Lolo & Sosaku and large-scale video art by international artists.
Music and Cultural Highlights
The music program includes Australian-exclusive performances by artists such as New York rapper Princess Nokia and Glaswegian producer Sega Bodega. Australian acts like Baker Boy and Miss Kaninna will also take the stage, enriching the festival's cultural tapestry.
Notable commissions include a performance by Guatemalan artist Regina José Galindo, exploring post-conflict attention economies, and a massive sound installation by Dutch composer Boris Acket, promising an immersive experience.
Focus on Latin American Art
This year's program features a strong emphasis on Latin American artists, addressing colonial legacies and underrepresented voices in Australian festivals. Twite noted, "They're making really interesting things, and they're maybe not as represented in Australian festivals and galleries."
Returning Festival Favourites
Dark Mofo will continue its beloved traditions, including the Winter Solstice Nude Swim, Ogoh-ogoh parade, Winter Feast food market, and Night Mass party. Tickets go on sale on 1 April, with the festival running from 11 to 22 June 2026.
