Darklab has submitted a development application to erect an artwork in the Huon Valley
A remote corner of Tasmania is set for an art-driven tourism boost with the development of an unusual installation, set to bring millions into the local economy every year. PHOTOS + PLANS >>
Tasmania
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THE HUON Valley looks set to get an art-driven tourism boost with Darklab submitting a development application to build a $8.5 million artwork and accompanying visitor centre as part of its Project X tourism initiative.
Project X was originally established to deliver low-impact tourism and reinvigorate Tasmania’s south after the bushfires of 2019.
Now, as Tasmania’s tourism sector slowly recovers from the COVID-19 shutdown, Darklab plans to build an interactive art pavilion, titled Transformer, at the Ida Bay State Reserve.
Darklab says the artwork was projected to attract 30,000 visitors each year and contribute $4.8 million to the local economy.
When it will be built, if approved, is slightly fluid as Darklab owner David Walsh recoups losses incurred when MONA was closed during the pandemic.
But Darklab wants to open in January, 2022.
The artwork is a permanent and site-specific commission by American artist Doug Aitken and will be funded by the federal and state governments and Darklab.
Darklab said the structure, which will have reflective interior, would create a never-ending kaleidoscope of light that interacts with the landscape over the changing seasons.
Related visitor services infrastructure will also be developed within the Ida Bay Railway precinct.
Transformer is expected to contribute $4.2 million to the region during construction.
“When we embarked on this ambitious project for the Huon Valley, David Walsh was in a financial position to fully underwrite the construction costs,” Darklab Creative Director Leigh Carmichael said.
“But this year, he too, has been impacted by the effects of COVID-19 on his businesses.
“We’re optimistic that we will find a way to realise the project, but the speed with which we can commit to building is dependent on our ability to raise further funds early in the new year.
“We’re confident the results will be more than worth it, both for the region and future visitation to the state, and we are planning to open in January 2022.”
Darklab was founded by Mr Walsh and Mr Carmichael in 2016. The DA for Transformer and the visitor centre have been submitted to the Huon Valley Council.
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