Message from the Queensland Government
Welcome to the 2023 Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF).
Queensland’s journey towards reconciliation acknowledges and embraces the unique and ancient history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in this state.
CIAF, as one of Queensland’s leading presenters of First Nations arts, cultures and knowledge, plays a pivotal role in the journey towards a more inclusive future, inviting us to share in the richness of the world’s oldest living culture.
This is why the Queensland Government has invested in CIAF since the inaugural event in 2009.
The 2023 festival promises to be a powerful showcase of First Nations art, with exciting program highlights. These include the Coconut Leaf Project celebrating Torres Strait Islander craft and weaving through large-scale installations, family friendly event Urban BLAKtivation, and the 10th anniversary fashion performance, Woven.
The CIAF Art Awards, featuring the Premier’s Award for Excellence for the most outstanding work, provide an important platform to showcase local talents and support the development of art practices.
Ongoing investment from the Queensland Government will support CIAF into the future, expanding opportunities for First Nations artists and communities, and growing economic and cultural tourism outcomes for the Cairns region ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
We invite you to experience CIAF 2023, which is set to be an outstanding celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island arts and cultures from across Queensland.
ANNASTACIA PALASZCZUK MP
PREMIER OF QUEENSLAND
MINISTER FOR THE OLYMPIC AND PARALYMPIC GAMES
LEEANNE ENOCH MP
MINISTER FOR TREATY
MINISTER FOR ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER PARTNERSHIPS
MINISTER FOR COMMUNITIES AND MINISTER FOR THE ARTS
STIRLING HINCHLIFFE MP
MINISTER FOR TOURISM, INNOVATION AND SPORT
MINISTER ASSISTING THE PREMIER ON OLYMPICS AND PARALYMPICS SPORT AND ENGAGEMENT