CIAF 2026 Fashion - Model EOI
The Cairns Indigenous Art Fair invites Aboriginal and/or Zenadth Kes/Torres Strait Islander models to apply to be a part of this year’s Fashion Performance - Reclamation & Regeneration. The curated fashion show has become a leading platform where First Nations culture is celebrated in an environment where art meets fashion.
The CIAF Fashion Performances aim to bring together contemporary Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander fine art with high-end fashion through an innovative and professional catwalk performance curated by Lynelle Flinders. A platform that empowers First Nations youth to be proud of who they are and where they come from, whilst connecting with their lineage through mentorship and collaboration with the arts industry.
Applications are open for Aboriginal and/or Zenadth Kes/Torres Strait Islander emerging models to participate in the four CIAF Fashion Performances, on Thursday 9 and Friday 10 July 2026. Models living in or connected to Queensland/Zenadth Kes, ages 16+, are strongly encouraged to apply.
Emerging models must submit images and ensure availability so that you gain the most opportunity out of CIAF’s Modelling Program. Lynelle Flinders will curate the 2026 show, working with successful applicants to ensure they receive mentorship through the program before the show.
Application close: COB Friday 22 May 2026.
Find out more and apply below.
ELIGIBILITY
Models 16 - 18 years (All models must be over the age of 16):
- Must be present at all fittings, rehearsals and both performance shows.
Images:
- In the application, please attach a maximum of five (5) images of yourself.
- Must have parental or guardian consent and supervision at all times.
- Parents and guardians must possess a Blue Card or apply for one.
- Blue Card is free for volunteers. More information and application here.
All Models:
- Required to attend all rehearsals and fittings starting Saturday, 4 July 2026.
Rehearsals at The Mill (Stratford) from 4 July for 5 days leading up to the Community Show on 9 July and Fashion Performance shows on 10 July 2026. - Images do not need to be professional; they can be taken with an iPhone or digital camera.
- Show yourself in your most natural state.
- Wear a plain top and, preferably, jeans.
- Ensure your hair is out and do not wear makeup.
- Include a close-up, full-body front-on, and full-body side profile among the five images.
- Images must be submitted with this application (submission portal below).
KEY DATES
Application close: COB Friday 22 May 2026.
Notification of successful candidates: Friday 29 May 2026
Community Show:
Thursday 9 July 2026
Show 1 : 1.00pm
Show 2 : 3.30pm
Fashion Performance:
Friday 10 July 2026
Show 1: 5.00pm
Show 2: 8.00pm
Contact details
Lynelle Flinders, CIAF Fashion Coordinator
Phone: (07) 4252 6312 | Mobile: 0407376271
Email: fashioncoordinator [at] ciaf.com.au
Office: Shop 1, Lot 22, 93 – 105 Lake Street, Cairns, Queensland, 4870 (Cairns School of Arts Building)
Find out more and apply below.
Image (top): CIAF 2026 Models wearing collection by Wudan (Amy) Neal. Photograph: Brian Cassey. 2. Anton Schorpflin wearing collection by Felicity Chapman. Photograph: Romy Photography.
