Zenadth Kes / Torres Strait Islander Artists Opportunity - EOI NOW CLOSED
The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) is generously offering two major opportunities for Zenadh Kes / Torres Strait Islander artists to participate in the 2026 Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF).
Through this initiative, the TSRA aims to celebrate and promote the unique artistic and cultural expressions of the Torres Strait Islands, providing a national platform for exposure, networking, and sales opportunities. These opportunities include:
1. A Supported Solo Booth at the Art Fair Showcase
One artist will be selected to present a solo exhibition of up to 20 artworks within a professional, white-wall booth (14 lineal metres). This premium, gallery-style space sits within CIAF’s flagship Art Fair Showcase.
2. A Supported Booth in the Artisans Showcase
A second artist will be supported to exhibit within the Artisans Showcase, CIAF’s dedicated marketplace for handcrafted works, textiles, jewellery, small sculpture and design.
Through this initiative, the TSRA seeks to celebrate and elevate the rich artistic and cultural practices of the Torres Strait Islands by providing pathways for national exposure, professional growth, sales opportunities and industry connections.
Both selected artists will receive a comprehensive support package, including:
- Art Fair Booth Fee (solo booth OR Artisans Showcase booth)
- CIAF Booth Installer
- CIAF Sales Assistant
- Artist Fee (for artwork production)
- Return Freight
- Crate Build
- Flights
- Accommodation
- Local Transport
- Artist Travel Allowance
This fully supported package ensures that participating artists can focus on creating, presenting and sharing their work with audiences at CIAF 2026.
KEY DATES
- EOI Deadlines: Friday 12 December, 2025
- Selection/Shortlisting Notification: Friday 17 November 2025
- Registrations Open: Friday 19 December 2025
- Registration Deadline: Monday 22 December, 2025
- Submission of final artwork and booth layout design for curation: Friday 8 May 2026
*Art Centres & Independent Artists only
CONTACT
Exhibitions & Development Manager
India Collins
M. + 61 0429 708 050
E. Exhibitions [at] ciaf.com.au
To maintain the integrity of the showcases, we kindly request that all applicants download and carefully review the CIAF Info Pack and adhere to the guidelines and eligibility criteria before submitting their application.
APPLY NOW
Once you have read the Info Pack, please complete the full application form by clicking 'Apply Now' below.
APPLY FOR THE ART FAIR SHOWCASE
APPLY FOR THE ARTISANS SHOWCASE
Please note that to be eligible, applicants must be of Zenadth Kes / Torres Strait Islander descent and reside in Zenadth Kes / the Torres Strait.
Images: (top) Soloman Ahmat, CIAF 2025 Art Fair Showcase. Photograph: Michael Marzick. 2. Tobias Corrie, CIAF 2025 Art Fair Showcase. Photograph: Michael Marzick.