A large canoe crafted by Torres Strait Island artist Toby Cedar has been suspended from a mirrored ceiling in the remodelled departures lounge at Cairns Airport.
The installation now showcases the rich culture of the region to international visitors as they embark on their travels.
A ceremony was held at the airport on Wednesday to unveil the key feature of the $55 million international terminal overhaul.
Cairns Airport chief executive officer Richard Barker selected the piece specifically during the 2023 Cairns Indigenous Art Fair.
Mr Cedar attended a celebration in the terminal as local Djabugay Nation members welcomed the artwork on Country.
Mr Cedar, a proud Torres Strait Islander from the Peiudu tribe of Erub who lists the frigate bird and tiger shark among his totems, enjoys creating traditional works that are influenced by his culture and his father's stories of hunting, fishing, and family life.
The artist works with materials such as bamboo, coconut shell, feathers, and pearl shell to create three-dimensional pieces.
Mr Cedar said his artwork was originally made to be instructional regarding traditional transport methods.
"I initially created this work for educational purposes, to demonstrate how my ancestors used to travel for trading and hunting," he said.
"The way it has been displayed at Cairns Airport has blown me away.
"Looking into the mirror above, you can see the inside and bottom of the piece, so many different angles."
He said the installation allows everyone visiting the region to become part of the experience.
"Everyone who visits Cairns can become part of the journey," he said.
Mr Barker said the prominent installation would enhance the airport experience for customers.
"Our region's rich culture and history are key drawcards for international visitors," Mr Barker said.
"The art looks exceptional and creates a stunning sense of place.
"But we have also provided an opportunity for travellers to further immerse themselves in our unique local culture while visiting Cairns Airport."
He views the creation as a symbol of voyage and adventure for all passengers.
"We see Toby's creation as a symbol of voyage and adventure for all," he said.
The extensive terminal overhaul is nearing completion after construction first started in April 2023.
Construction is due for completion at the end of November while new retail and dining offerings will follow in 2026.
Mr Barker said the completion of the construction phase was timed to align with the festive season.
"We are heading into a busy period, with more than 120,000 passengers expected to travel through the international terminal during December and January," he said.
"Passengers will be welcomed to a dynamic, contemporary terminal with key infrastructure improvements to streamline their journey," he said.
Original reporting by Cape York Weekly
