CIAF City-Wide Program
The Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) is proud to present its revitalised City-Wide Program - a dynamic calendar of exhibitions, performances, and community activations unfolding across the city during CIAF 2026.
Formerly the Satellite Program, the CIAF City-Wide Program continues in 2026 as an expanded, place-based platform shaped by this year’s theme, Reclamation & Regeneration. Across Gimuy/Cairns, the program brings together independently produced events and collaborations with CIAF, tracing a broader cultural map of the region.
From major institutions such as Cairns Art Gallery to artist-led activations in community and unexpected spaces, the program extends beyond the Tanks Arts Centre into the city itself, activating multiple sites where culture is practiced, shared and held.
While the Fair remains anchored at the Tanks, the City-Wide Program opens up a wider invitation. It reflects the ongoing work of First Nations artists and communities to reclaim space, assert cultural authority and generate new forms of expression grounded in Country.
All listings will be hosted online, with direct links to venues and events, allowing audiences to navigate the full program and engage with CIAF across the city.
Cairns Art Gallery Exhibitions
For the CIAF weekend (9-12 July), all three Cairns Art Gallery buildings will be open 9am - 5pm.
NorthSite Contemporary Arts
Image (top): Janet Koongotema
Wik-Mungkan
Moun.aw – Archer River story place (detail) 2024
synthetic polymer paint on linen
150.5 x 151.5cm Cairns Art Gallery Collection. Purchased Cairns Art Gallery, 2026