CIAF is Cairns’ premier Indigenous art event, drawing crowds from around the country to experience an authentic Aboriginal art exhibition where the Country’s most recognised and upcoming Indigenous artists come together to show off their incredible art works, music and dance. CIAF is an unmissable event for anyone interested in art and especially the unique qualities of Australian Indigenous and Torres Strait islander art, music, dance and performance.
Held in the Cruise Liner Terminal venue right on the waters of the Trinity Inlet, Cairns provides a perfect host town to hold the multi-day event. A range of affordable accommodation options are available just a few minutes walk from the venue, and the region is home to the spectacular Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest - two not-to-be-missed natural locations for visitors to Cairns and CIAF.
Most of the events and exhibitions during CIAF are free of charge making the event a great choice for budget conscious travellers and locals who want to experience a premier art event for little cost.
CIAF is an art fair but also focuses strongly on cultural exchange and connection between different peoples, with many local schools also participating in programs that allow for the younger generation to experience and increase their perception and knowledge of Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and cultural practice.
Accommodation:
There are a range of hotels within walking distance of CIAF that offer beautiful harbour water views. From family friendly resorts to high-end self-contained apartments, we can always find something to suit you, your family or group. Click here for our best CIAF accommodation picks and don't hesitate to give us a call on 1300 761 612 to discuss the best accommodation choices for CIAF.
Tours:
While in Cairns you simply have to visit the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest. These two incredible ecosystems have been unchanged for thousands of years and offer visitors an amazing natural experience. From overnight island stays to day trips with the kids, to dedicated scuba diving liveaboard charters, we will find a Great Barrier Reef experience to suit you. Cairns is also home to the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, where you can extend your Indigenous experience with more art and activities such as boomerang and spear throwing, fire-making and the Lakeside Fire Ceremony. Click here for the best Cairns tours.
Scroll down for a brief outline of the event program.
Main Events:
CIAF Opening Night Party 2017 - 6:30pm 13/07/2017
CIAF Art Fair & Art Market - 9:00AM 14/07/2017
Big Talk One Fire Festival - 1:00PM 15/07/2017
Gimuy Fish Festival - 11:00AM 16/07/2017
CIAF Closing Ceremony - 3:00PM 16/07/2017
Artist Talks:
CIAF Conversations - 12:00PM 14/07/2017 & 12:00PM 15/07/2017
Theatre:
My Name is Jimi - 11:00AM 11/07/2017
Kids' Activities:
Gungun Warrawarra (Children’s Corner)
11:00AM 15/07/2017 & 11:00AM 16/07/2017