CIAF 2026 Masterclass Series - EOI

CIAF is excited to introduce the CIAF 2026 Masterclass Series, a suite of five high-quality, artist-led workshops showcasing a diverse range of craft-based creative practices signature to Queensland’s First Nations artists.

Each Masterclass will be facilitated by a featured artist and will offer participants an immersive, two-hour, hands-on experience. All materials will be supplied, each session will be fully catered, and every workshop is designed to support learning, creative exploration and meaningful cultural exchange.

The Masterclass Series provides opportunities for both emerging and established artists to share their skills, techniques and stories across a wide range of mediums, including 2D visual art, sculpture, ceramics, textiles and new media. These intimate classes create space for participants to engage directly with contemporary cultural practice, gain insight into artistic processes, and produce their own small works, guided by the artist-facilitator.

Curated with care and cultural integrity, the Masterclass Series highlights the unique artistry of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander practitioners, honouring legacy techniques while supporting new and innovative approaches. This series strengthens pathways for cultural knowledge-sharing and celebrates the creative expressions of Queensland’s First Peoples.

WHO CAN APPLY

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Be Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander

• Reside in Queensland or demonstrate a strong connection to Queensland

• Be an emerging, mid-career or established artist

• Demonstrate a commitment to cultural practice, knowledge-sharing and creative continuity

• Be willing to lead a participatory workshop for the public

CIAF is committed to accessibility and welcomes applications from artists of all abilities.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Successful applicants will be engaged as artist-facilitators to deliver a Masterclass with:

• Up to two hours of hands-on delivery

• All materials supplied by CIAF

• Catering provided

• Support from CIAF staff and volunteers

• Marketing and promotion through CIAF channels

Each artist will deliver one Masterclass session as part of the curated series.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Reading the Info Pack below and submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) is the first step in the application process.

Artists are asked to outline their workshop concept and submit supporting material. Selected applicants will then be invited to submit a full proposal and additional images for final consideration by the CIAF Curatorial Committee under the guidance of Artistic Director Teho Ropeyarn.

Submitting an EOI does not guarantee acceptance. CIAF reserves the right to offer feedback or alternative recommendations.

APPLY NOW

Image (top): Helena Loncaric's CIAF 2025 Masterclass: The Art of Weaving. Photograph: Studio Sol by Alicia Jade.