CIAF presents 15th anniversary exhibition at Tanks Arts Centre
In a full circle moment, the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair has returned to its roots with a special anniversary exhibition. How you can get involved.
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In a full circle moment for the popular art festival, the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair has returned to its roots.
Celebrating its 15th year, CIAF will unveil its anniversary exhibition Not Selling Cakes, named for a previous series of works by pioneer artist Billy Missy at the Tanks Arts Centre on July 5 and will run until July 28.
CIAF artistic director Francoise Lane said the exhibition honoured the past while celebrating how far the fair had come.
“The thing that’s significant about Not Selling Cakes and the location is that this was the very first place where we had CIAF back in 2009,” Ms Lane said.
“We’ve come back to the roots of where CIAF began, its humble beginnings in this place.”
The exhibition will feature previous artworks from living and deceased artists including Billy Missi, Brian Robinson, Arum Meeks, Judy Watson and Tony Elbert.
The exhibition title, Not Selling Cakes, was a statement by the late Billy Missi.
It was first coined to title the landmark 2006 report investigating issues affecting the sustainability of Indigenous art centres in Far North Queensland and the Torres Strait.
CIAF cultural associate Teho Ropeyarn said it was important to showcase works by artists who have died to continue honouring their legacy.
“It’s huge culturally, protocol wise around Arun Thanakupi and especially Billy (Missi) because I started in the industry in 2010 at UMI Arts and Billy was a force there,” he said.
“Through my early working career Billy gave me a lot of advice and support over the years so it’s emotional, but very heartwarming to have them in the show.”
The exhibition will feature works from 20 Indigenous Queensland artists.
Comprising more than 20 free and ticketed events, CIAF’s program highlights include the Opening Night Party, Art Fair, Art Market and public program of workshops, and children’s activities presented at the Cairns Convention Centre hub.
The official four-day program will start on Thursday, July 25.
For information or to register, visit the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair website.
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Originally published as CIAF presents 15th anniversary exhibition at Tanks Arts Centre
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