The 2025 Cairns Indigenous Art Fair, to be held at the Tanks Arts Centre from the 10th – 13th of July, is set to showcase its most dynamic, inclusive, and thought-provoking program to date.
Taking place against the lush backdrop of Gimuy/Cairns' Botanical Gardens precinct, the 16th edition of CIAF will transform Tanks 3, 4, and 5, rainforest surrounds, and the Collins Avenue promenade into a vibrant cultural precinct of truth-telling, talent and transformation.
This year's program also marks the curatorial debut of artistic director Teho Ropeyarn, who draws on his deep experience as an acclaimed artist, curator, and one of CIAF's legacy exhibitors. Ropeyarn will present a program that is both quintessentially Queensland and powerfully representative of the distinct cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Inspired by Tony Albert's 2011 work, this year's theme 'Pay Attention!' calls on audiences, artists, and institutions to reckon with history, honour legacy, and help shape a more equitable future.
"CIAF is more than an art fair—it's a movement," said Ropeyarn.
"Pay Attention! is both a creative and cultural call to remain vigilant, honour our histories, and assert our presence as we shape the future. This year's program is a joyful convergence of community and culture that brings together some of the most exciting voices in contemporary First Nations art."
From dawn until dusk, the three repurposed World War II oil tanks within the verdant Tanks Arts Centre precinct and promenade will thrum with the culturally immersive, creative energy of over 400 artists, performers and presenters throughout four days of visual and performing arts, fashion, music, dance, food, workshops, talks, panel discussions.
This year's program highlights include the Look & Listen Fashion Performance, Mark Makers Talks Program, CIAF Art Awards Ceremony and much more.
CIAF chair Bianca Beetson said the festival's return to the city's cultural precinct, Tanks Arts Centre, marks a significant moment of reflection and renewal.
"As we come full circle, returning to where it all began, we honour our past while embracing the next chapter. Pay Attention! is a powerful theme that invites deep listening, honest reflection, and bold artistic expression," she said.
The complete CIAF 2025 program is now available online, with the online program providing visitors with a comprehensive digital guide to this year's events, exhibitions, and experiences.
A newly designed printed brochure—available at key locations throughout Gimuy/Cairns and the Far North—will serve as the ultimate festival planner, offering visitors an easy-to-use, fold-out daily itinerary that features maps, event times, and essential festival highlights.
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