![Roomview of Big Sculpure. CIAF Touring Exhibition. Background: Ian Waldron, Totemic Forest, 2022, synthetic polymer paint, natural pigments, mixed media, 230 x 240 x 240cm (dimension variable). Foreground: Brian Robinson, Bank’s Bounty: Exotic Cargo, 2022, palight plastic, wood, spray paint, toys, found object, Dimensions variable.] Big Sculpture is a CIAF touring exhibition supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland.](/sites/default/files/styles/hero_widescreen_2x/public/2025-11/ciaf_2023_-_big_sculpture_showcase_-_001.jpg)
Resonance – Major Art Commissioning Project EOI
CIAF and Blaklash are calling for Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for a new major commissioning project titled 'Resonance'.
CIAF is calling for Expressions of Interest from First Nations artists to create a major commissioned installation for the 2026 Cairns Indigenous Art Fair. The artwork will be exhibited within the iconic Tanks Arts Centre precinct during the Fair, viewed by thousands of visitors including collectors, curators, industry leaders and community.
About the Commission
Funded through Arts Queensland’s First Nations Commissioning Fund, this project supports the creation of a captivating, high-profile installation that becomes a focal point of CIAF 2026. The work must be designed for both audience impact and commercial viability, incorporating elements that can be sold.
This initiative:
- Elevates the visibility of Queensland First Nations art and storytelling
- Supports creative and career development through industry mentorship
- Promotes the economic sustainability of Indigenous art practice
- Enhances national and international industry connections
- Strengthens cultural exchange and community pride
The final work will reflect CIAF’s artistic vision and be suitable for a major indoor public space with high visitor engagement.
Artist Support
The commissioned artist will receive:
- Professional mentorship from Blaklash, experts in Indigenous public art project management
- Production and installation support
- A budget for the creation of the work
- Marketing and national profile development as a commissioned CIAF artist
This collaboration ensures the artwork is delivered to an exceptional standard and has strong potential for future presentation opportunities beyond CIAF.
Eligibility
- Applicants must be Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander artists
- Applicants must be based in, or have strong cultural connections to, Queensland
- Both independent artists and artists working through art centres or collectives are welcome to apply
Key Dates
Applications open: 18 November 2025
Applications close: Midnight 5 January 2026
Production: From December 2025 to July 2026
CIAF Event Dates: 9 - 12 July 2025
If you have any questions, please contact CIAF at artfair [at] ciaf.com.au or call (07) 4252 6312.
To find out more about the eligibility criteria, please download and read the Resonance Info Pack listed below.
RESONANCE INFO PACK
Download and read the Info Pack, and apply now below.
Image: Rebecca Ray, CIAF 2025 Art Fair Showcase booth. Photograph: Michael Marzick.
Resonance is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland’s First Nations Commissioning Fund.