Hottest spots to view the beam

Spectra show poised to reach for the sky

THE longest nights of the year will be brightened by Dark Mofo’s spectra, returning to Mona for a four-night run from this evening.

You could choose to enjoy Japanese artist Ryoji Ikeda’s light installation from its Mona base, with Berriedale fried chicken in one hand and a spiced hot cider in the other — or you could enjoy the beacon from afar, where you can view its 15km reach into the sky without the crowds.

Why not take a thermos and a picnic rug to one of these spots: GLENORCHY Art & Sculpture Park: Get close while still far enough away to be dazzled, at the park behind the Derwent Entertainment Centre. ROSNY Hill Lookout: Take in water, Tasman Bridge and spectra views and reflections from the comfort of your car at the hill behind Rosny. KUNANYI/ Mt Wellington summit: Drive up a little earlier to beat the crowds and see the sunset for arguably the most epic view of Hobart in its winter solstice. OTAGO: Directly opposite Mona is Otago where, although there isn’t a specific spot to sit and view spectra, all across the coastline should boast spectacular views of both the museum and the beam. MONA ROMA: See spectra from the Derwent as you travel closer to its source on board the Mona Roma ferry.

spectra includes a sound system and 49 searchlights that project beams of white light into the sky which, on a clear night, can be seen from 100km away.

Co-director of exhibitions and collections and senior curator Nicole Durling said Mona was thrilled to once again welcome the installation.

“In the depths of winter, this pillar of pure white light brings something hopeful and inspiring to our longest nights,” she said.

“We are honoured that of all locations in the world, the artist selected Mona as the permanent home for spectra here in Hobart.”

While spectra is running, Mona will operate a frequent ferry service into the evening.

Food vans will be on site to warm up hungry visitors and there will be spiced wine, cider and hot chocolates.

spectra runs from sunset to sunrise from tonight until Sunday and will light up each year for the winter solstice. The museum will be open until 6pm, and ferries will run every halfhour until 8:30pm.