FASHION FEAST

Showcase will feature culture and bare feet

YOUNG models in the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair’s BulmbaBarra fashion event tonight will perform in bare feet to symbolise their connection to country and the four elements.

Bulmba-barra – when barefeet touch the earth showcases fashion from 10 indigenous artists through song and dance, performed not by professional models, but young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

CIAF general manager Vanessa Gillen said BulmbaBarra would impress audiences and provided an opportunity for artists to share their culture with the wider community.

“I never call it a fashion show. It’s a performance – a mixture of fashion and dance,” she said.

“That’s what CIAF is all about; our core foundation is being a platform for artists; get them to sell their work and share their culture.”

The 2018 CIAF program will showcase the talents of more than 300 visual artists and 230 performers and organisers are hoping to exceed last year’s attendance of 50,000 visitors.

Arts Minister Leeanne Enoch announced Erub Arts for Paddles as the winner of the Premier’s Award for Excellence at the launch last night, along with other award winners.

Earlier in the day, the 51FNQR Battalion Company Sarpeye Dancers rehearsed together ahead of the group’s CIAF performances on Saturday and Sunday.

Picture: BRENDAN RADKE SHOW TIME: Performer Hans Ahwang holds a Torres Strait ceremonial head dress at the conclusion of Bulmba-Barra at a preview showing of the fashion performance at the Tanks Arts Centre.

ON SHOW: Private Gibson Nona rehearses with the 51 FNQR Sarpeye Dancers ahead of the group’s weekend performances.