Dark Mofo organisers have confirmed that they will not sit down with Hobart Lord Mayor Ron Christie to discuss the future direction of the iconic Tasmanian festival after he stated he wanted to "put the brakes on" due to its "unhealthy culture".
“Our ability to curate the festival free from interference from government and sponsors and other commercial interests is of paramount importance — not only to us, but for all art organisations across Australia," said Dark Mofo Creative Director Leigh Carmichael.
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"It’s deeply concerning when community leaders attempt to censor art with cheap threats to cut funds.
"We can assure our Dark Mofo audiences that we will not accept any festival funding if there are artistic limitations attached.
“It is inappropriate for a Lord Mayor to draw an imaginary line based entirely on their own moral compass.”
Speculating about the event’s future, Mona owner David Walsh said, “if we acquiesce to curatorial influence and become tame, the festival will die in three years, so the money will be irrelevant".
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