Entertainment
18 February, 2025
CIAF appoints talented new artistic director
WITH the aim of going back to basics, the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) has appointed the former curatorial associate and acting artistic director Teho Ropeyarn as the new artistic director.
Mr Ropeyarn, who was appointed as acting artistic director after the retirement of Francoise Lane, was selected due to his extensive years of expertise and his deeply rooted passion for First Nations art and culture.
He brings with him over a decade of curatorial and leadership expertise, many achievements as an established artist and lots of respect for First Nations artists and their work.
“I am honoured to officially take on the role of artistic director at CIAF – a wonderful multi-dimensional platform that showcases incredible art, sparks conversations and creates opportunities that empower First Nations artists and communities,” Mr Ropeyarn said.
“I look forward to continuing this journey and sharing our vibrant stories with Queensland, Australia and the world.”
Born in Kalkatungu Country/ Mount Isa and raised in Injinoo, Cape York Peninsula, Mr Ropeyarn holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the College of Fine Arts, University of New South Wales.
He has collaborated with more than 100 artists and produced over 30 exhibitions, including the acclaimed ‘Goobalathaldin Dick Roughsey: Stories of this Land and Big Sculpture’, CIAF’s first major touring project.
An accomplished artist, Mr Ropeyarn’s works have been showcased nationally and internationally, including the 23rd Biennale of Sydney, Nuit Blanche in Canada and the Queen Sonja Print Award in Norway. His artworks are part of significant collections, such as the National Gallery of Australia and the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art.
CIAF’s chief executive Dennis Stokes highlighted Mr Ropeyarn’s extensive experience working with CIAF.
“Artistic director is a significant and visionary role that is pivotal to the event’s positioning within and across Australia’s First Nations arts and cultural scape, programming, and ultimately, success,” Mr Stokes said.
“Teho is highly regarded among the creative arts industry and the community, who respect his artistic endeavour and are inspired by his leadership. His innovative approach and commitment to elevating First Nations art and culture will take CIAF to the next level.”
CIAF will be held Thursday, July 10, to Sunday, July 13.
