CIAF Cairns Indigenous Art Fair 2025
In celebration of Queensland’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, The annual Cairns Indigenous Art Fair, commonly known as “CIAF” is set to take place at Cairns Convention Centre from 10th - 13th July, 2025. Showcasing a rich tapestry of Indigenous art, dance, fashion and cultural practices, CIAF is a premier event that draws visitors from all over the globe.
What Is CIAF?
CIAF stands for the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair, and is an annual event that promotes and exhibits Queensland’s First Nations people within the arts industry. The Fair showcases visual arts, fashion designers and traditional performance artists, while offering an ethical marketplace for visitors, collectors and curators to purchase unique artworks serving as a supportive platform for emerging Indigenous artists.
In addition to the art exhibition, CIAF fosters greater appreciation, awareness and understanding of traditional and contemporary cultural practices amongst Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Through special performances, workshops and discussions, festival goers can experience authentic practices that keep culture alive.
Photo Source: CIAF Art Fair
Dive deeper into authentic North Queensland Aboriginal culture on one of these local Indigenous tours!
What Is The Theme for CIAF 2025?
The theme for CIAF 2025 is "Pay Attention." Following the 2023 Voice Referendum, this theme encourages people to observe and learn from the world around them, while taking a stand in politics and social justice issues. We need to pay attention to how current issues are affecting First Nations communities in our modern world. The theme is inspired by the incredible print work, Pay Attention!, by Tony Albert in 2011.
Art is more than a form of cultural expression. Through CIAF, art is an effective platform for raising the issues most important to Queensland’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Presented in compelling and emotive narratives that aim to raise the collective consciousness and voices that are positioned to drive change across the region.
The History of CIAF
Founded in 2009, The Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) was originally established by the Queensland Government as an initiative to back indigenous arts programs. In 2013 it became a corporate not-for-profit entity which continues to focus on increasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representation with the art space.
Since its inception, CIAF has continued to provide an influential platform for thousands of artists, generating significant economic benefits for the Indigenous communities. Each year, CIAF draws visitors who come to experience a range of diverse and dynamic Indigenous art and culture. Collectors and curators from around the globe attend the annual event to meet with artists and acquire artworks for private and public collections.
The fair has been pivotal in nurturing emerging artists and preserving traditional art forms, while also encouraging contemporary cultural expressions.
Cairns Indigenous Art Fair 2025 Events
Every year, the CIAF Cairns Indigenous Art Fair showcases a diverse range of cultural activities and exhibitions that celebrate Indigenous art and heritage. Here is what attendees can look forward to! For more specific details about costs and times for the events, visit the official CIAF page.
Opening Night
Held on Thursday the 10th of July from 4pm, the CIAF Opening Night brings together artists, performers, and guests alike for a night of music, dance, food, and visual art. Featuring cultural dances, live music performances, and captivating art installations guests can enjoy a fascinating introduction to the world of Indigenous art.
CIAF Fashion Performance
Witness the incredible blend of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander fine art with high fashion on the catwalk. You can admire the wearable art that infuses First Nations colours, patterns, and designs.
The 2025 CIAF Fashion Performances will include two shows: "Look" and "Listen".
Masterclasses
Led by renowned First Nations artists, the CIAF masterclasses allow guests the chance to learn from the experts first-hand. These are ticketed events where you can engage in hands-on practices and learn techniques from the masters!
The 2025 CIAF Masterclasses include:
- The Art of Weaving with Helena Loncaric
- From Fur to Feathers: Designing Bags with MumRed (Samala Cronin)
- Mindi Weaving with Nephi Denham
- Spill the Tea on the Colony with Kerry Klimm
- Printmaking with Natural Pigments with Matilda Nona
CIAF Talks
Those who want to learn more about Indigenous art can attend one of the scheduled talks from First Nations artists and influential people. The experts will share their stories, thoughts, and opinions on important issues about conservation and art for the Indigenous community. In addition to ticketed events, there will be free panel talks throughout the weekend where attendees can join thought-provoking conversations.
The 2025 CIAF Speakers and their topics include:
- Dr Archie Moore - Kinship and Cultural Maintenance
- Dr Terri Janke - Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property
- Sebastian Goldspink - Creative Collaboration
- Jack Wilkie-Jans - The Talks Curator
Why not explore some of the culturally rich natural surroundings while visiting Cairns for the CIAF Art Fair.
