CIAF 2026

Tanks Arts Centre

CIAF 2026 image
2026 Theme: Reclamation & Regeneration

Celebrating the vibrant arts and cultural heritage of Queensland’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, the 17th landmark edition of the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) will showcase an exciting First Nations program from Thursday 9 July to Sunday 12 July 2026.

Situated in the heart of Gimuy/Cairns’ botanical precinct and surrounded by the verdant rainforest, CIAF’s 2026 program, featuring free and ticketed events, is brimming with highlights and involvement from some of Australia’s most eminent First Nations artists, and activists, that will transform Tanks Arts Centre’s three repurposed World War II oil tanks into an inclusive and culturally immersive wonderland.

CIAF’s 2026 program spans visual and performing arts, masterclasses, cultural demonstrations, talks, awards, fashion, food and more in events and activations that include:

  • Opening Night
  • Art Fair Showcase
  • Artisans Showcase (formerly art market)
  • Fashion Performances
  • Artist Talks
  • Masterclasses
  • Art Awards
  • Cultural Dance Performances
  • Closing Ceremony
  • Accessibility Hour
  • Theatre
  • Curated Talks Program
  • First Nations Elders Lounge Activation

For the full program, visit the CIAF website via the button below.

Cairns Indigenous Art Fair

Image: CIAF is proud to present the 2026 hero artwork in collaboration with local First Nations-led creative studio, Red Ochre Republic.

Price
Free + ticketed events
When
Thu 9 Jul 2026 - Sun 12 Jul 2026
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CIAF is proudly supported by a range of government and philanthropic partners. This includes funding from the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland and Tourism and Events Queensland, via the Destination Events Program (QDEP) Fund. CIAF also receives support from the Australian Government through Creative Australia and the Indigenous Visual Arts Industry Support (IVAIS) program, as well as ongoing support from Cairns Regional Council. CIAF is also supported by the Tim Fairfax Family Foundation and receives funding from Creative Australia through the Australian Cultural Fund. In 2026, the CIAF Fashion Program is presented with the support of QIC.