Erub/Darnley Island artist Jimmy K. Thaiday was one of four Cape York/Torres Strait award winners at the 2026 Cairns Indigenous Art Fair. Photo: Blueclick Photography.
Cape York and Torres Strait Islander artists with a story to share are invited to help shape Far North Queensland’s biggest First Nations art fair.
Expressions of interest (EOI) are now open for the 2027 Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF), calling on Indigenous creatives from across the region to represent their Country and history across the Art Fair Showcase, Artisans Showcase, Music and Dance Program and Masterclass Series events.
The fair returns to Cairns on 8-11 July 2027 and the call follows a highly successful 2026 CIAF for Cape York and the Torres Strait, at which several prominent artists, including Daisy Hamlot (Hope Vale), Keith Wikmunea (Aurukun), Jimmy K. Thaiday (Torres Strait) and Douglas Tamwoy (Bamaga/Torres Strait) were recognised at the prestigious CIAF Art Awards.
The 17th edition of the event was also a record season, bringing together more than 450 artists, exhibitors, performers and presenters to deliver the largest Art Fair and Artisans Showcase in history.
CIAF artistic director Teho Ropeyarn said the annual EOI process was an important part of bringing together a diverse range of storytellers.
“CIAF is built on First Nations voices, stories and cultural expression, and each year we want to hear from artists and practitioners at different stages of their creative journey,” he said.
“From emerging and independent artists finding a platform alongside established practitioners, to musicians and dancers sharing language, movement and song, and artists passing on knowledge through our Masterclass Series, these opportunities are about visibility, cultural continuity and creating pathways for First Nations artists.
“CIAF is also a place for truth-telling and cultural sovereignty, a platform where artists can tell their own stories, honour enduring cultural knowledge and explore new and contemporary forms of expression.”
EOIs will close on 16 November, with CIAF’s 2027 theme to be unveiled next month. Further information, eligibility requirements and applications are available via CIAF’s new website at www.ciaf.com.au.
