Torres Strait Regional Authority's Gab Titui Cultural Centre has opened artwork submissions for Indigenous artists across the Torres Strait region, including Bamaga and Seisia, ahead of major Indigenous art fairs in Cairns and Darwin.
The works will be showcased at the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair and the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair on behalf of artists who cannot attend but want their pieces presented on national and international stages.
The call covers traditional and contemporary pieces and will include diverse collections from emerging and established artists from across Zenadth Kes.
TSRA Chairperson, George Nona of Badu Island, encouraged local artists to submit their works, particularly if they are unable to travel to the events.
He said the showcases help represent the region's culture and stories through art.
"Your art represents the region, yumi culture and yumi stories," Mr Nona said.
"It is important our works are showcased at national events to highlight the unique talent and style across Zenadth Kes.
"Art fairs are an opportunity for our artists to build careers, earn national and international recognition, and generate income from their works."
The Gab Titui Cultural Centre will attend both art fairs and present works from the region while supporting artists through the submission and freight process.
Mr Nona said participation had helped build pathways and connections for artists to explore opportunities beyond the region.
"These strategic relationships have helped local First Nations artists to explore opportunities beyond the region with some taking the next step by going overseas to exhibit, perform and learn," he said.
The 2026 Cairns Indigenous Art Fair will run from 9 to 12 July with a Reclamation & Regeneration theme, calling for artists to present works that share their truth, ideas and vision.
The Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair will be held from 6 to 9 August as it marks its 20th anniversary, following a record-breaking event last year that drew more than 28,000 visitors and generated $5.1 million in sales for Indigenous artists and art centres.
TSRA has partnered with CIAF for several years, including sponsorship of the CIAF People's Choice Award.
Artwork submissions for CIAF and DAAF are now open, with Gab Titui staff available to assist artists to prepare and deliver their works to the centre.
All artworks must arrive at the Gab Titui Cultural Centre on Waiben (Thursday Island) by 1 June 2026 to meet shipping deadlines.
Artists can contact the Gab Titui Cultural Centre on 07 4069 0888 to register interest and arrange freight, and are asked to ensure artworks are securely packaged and suitable for travel from their community to Waiben.
