In honor of the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) reaching its 15th anniversary milestone, a special exhibition titled “Not Selling Cakes” is set to commemorate this significant occasion. The exhibition, hosted at Tank 4 Gallery, is a tribute to the exceptional talents of CIAF artists and their impactful contributions to Queensland’s Indigenous art scene since the event’s inception in 2009.

The 15-year journey of CIAF symbolizes the enduring legacy of Indigenous art and the cultural richness of Queensland’s First Nations communities. It serves as a platform that embraces and showcases Indigenous artistic expressions, highlighting the heritage and contemporary essence of Indigenous art forms. By celebrating the past, present, and future of Indigenous creativity, CIAF plays a vital role in preserving unique artistic traditions and fostering cultural legacies that resonate through generations.

To mark the milestone of ’15,’ CIAF engaged 15 distinguished arts professionals to collaborate on curating the exhibition, emphasizing the interconnectedness of art, culture, and community. The exhibition’s title, “Not Selling Cakes,” originates from a poignant statement by the late Billy Missi, which was initially used to headline a pivotal 2006 report investigating the sustainability challenges faced by Indigenous art centers in Far North Queensland and the Torres Strait. This report played a pivotal role in laying the groundwork for the establishment of CIAF in 2009, underscoring the event’s commitment to supporting and uplifting Indigenous artistic endeavors.

The exhibition promises to be a visual narrative that encapsulates the essence of Indigenous artistry, showcasing the diverse creative expressions that have flourished within Queensland’s Indigenous art landscape. Through a thought-provoking collection of artworks, the exhibition aims to shed light on the resilience, innovation, and cultural significance embedded in Indigenous art practices, inviting viewers to engage with the stories and traditions woven into each artistic creation.

As visitors immerse themselves in the ‘Not Selling Cakes’ exhibition, they will have the opportunity to witness the evolution and dynamism of Indigenous art, exploring the intricate connections between art, identity, and community. The showcase serves as a testament to the transformative power of art in fostering cross-cultural dialogue, promoting understanding, and honoring the profound artistic heritage of Australia’s First Nations peoples.

In essence, the CIAF’s 15th-anniversary exhibition stands as a tribute to the spirit of creativity, resilience, and cultural pride that define Indigenous art in Queensland. It encapsulates the unwavering commitment of CIAF to championing Indigenous artistic excellence, fostering cultural exchange, and nurturing a vibrant artistic ecosystem that celebrates diversity, innovation, and tradition in equal measure. Through this exhibition, CIAF reaffirms its dedication to empowering Indigenous artists, amplifying their voices, and ensuring that their artistic legacies endure and flourish for years to come.