Dr Ken Thaiday, Paul Thaiday to present collection at CIAF

Passing the torch from one generation to the next, internationally renowned Torres Strait artist Ken Thaiday and his son Paul will showcase a special collection of artwork at this year’s Cairns Indigenous Art Fair.

Renowned Torres Strait Islander artist and cultural leader Dr Ken Thaiday, with the help of his artist son, Paul Thaiday, will prepare a collection of new and restored works for exhibition in this year's Cairns Indigenous Art Fair Showcase at the Tanks Arts Centre. Picture: Brendan Radke

Passing the torch from one generation to the next, internationally renowned Torres Strait artist Ken Thaiday and his son Paul will showcase a special collection of artwork at this year’s Cairns Indigenous Art Fair.

The father-and-son duo have worked together to unpack several of Dr Thaiday’s ceremonial artworks from years past, for a special exhibition at this year’s Cairns Indigenous Art Fair.

“I’m doing hammerhead shark headdress, that’s my totem, that’s why I love doing it,” Dr Thaiday said.

“I love the design. I do my own things. I use black bamboo to make it look more stunning, to make the shape of the hammerhead.”

Renowned Torres Strait Islander artist and cultural leader Dr Ken Thaiday, with the help of his artist son, Paul Thaiday, will prepare a collection of new and restored works for exhibition in this year's Cairns Indigenous Art Fair Showcase at the Tanks Arts Centre. Picture: Brendan Radke

Born and raised on Darnley Island, Dr Thaiday – affectionately known as Uncle Ken – spent decades interpreting traditional Torres Strait Islander ceremonies through striking kinetic sculptures, dance masks, and headdresses.

His son Paul, who now lives in Western Australia, made the journey to Cairns to help his father put together the collection.

“I’m really keen on picking up all of his skills and learn more about his work’s being passed down,” Mr Thaiday said.

“Last year, I decided to come over and get more from him now about history, culture, the artworks and everything, so … now I sort of work alongside dad now and get as much knowledge and information that I can get now from him, and carry on his work.”

The works of Dr Ken Thaiday Snr will feature in CIAF’s 2025 Art Fair Showcase under the theme Pay Attention!, held at the Tanks Arts Centre from July 10 to 13 2025.

Originally published as Dr Ken Thaiday, Paul Thaiday to present collection at CIAF