Page 62 - Tropic Magazine Issue 36

TROPIC • SPECIAL FEATURE

On the run-way

A key event at every CIAF, the Fashion
Performance returns this year with the
Fair’s cultural interpretation of a fashion
catwalk.
It’s curated by seasoned fashion designer
but first-time fashion show curator
Lynelle Flinders, who’s been involved
with every CIAF Fashion Performance 1. Benita Williams wears designs by Hopevale
since 2013. Arts & Cultural Centre + QUT. Image by
She’s joined by choreographer Hans Blueclick Photography, 2021.
2. Thalia Brown wears designs by Hopevale Arts
Ahwang (from Moa Island) to present the & Cultural Centre + QUT.
performance, titled We Are Masters Image by Blueclick Photography, 2021.
3. Tahanee Buli & Kale Bardi wear designs by
of Country. Magpie Goose.
Image by Blueclick Photography, 2021.
Involving almost 20 models from across 4. Kale Bardi wears designs by Pormpuraaw Art
Queensland, as well as 14 different & Culture Centre + Simone Arnol.
Image by Scott Horan, 2021.
designer collections and a vivid program 5. Miiesha. Image courtesy of the artist.
of dance and storytelling, Lynelle said it’s
going to be bigger and better than ever.
“After two years of being unable to
perform to a live audience, this year
we’re making a big statement,”
Ms Flinders said.
“There’s nothing like seeing a fashion
show right in front of your eyes. In line
with the Masters of Country theme,
I’ve taken the element of weaving and
that will be a feature throughout the
whole show. 1
“The storyline will be about a family
gathering, and about how we utilise 2
natural things around us in everyday
situations. I’m excited about having a
hand in showcasing mob and stories
through fashion.”
Another aspect Ms Flinders is particularly
thrilled about is the mentorship involved
between experienced and emerging
models. More than half the group will be
walking down the catwalk for the first
time, under the guidance of experienced
local models Benita Williams and
Tahanee Buli, among others.
Lynelle’s daughter, Karleah Flinders, will 4
also be involved behind-the-scenes.
We Are Masters of Country performs on
Friday 8 July, 6pm and 8.30pm, at the 3
Tanks Arts Centre. Tickets essential.

CIAF Music in the Tank

Saturday 9 July, 6-10pm, Tanks Arts Centre
Within the botanical, atmospheric surrounds of the repurposed World
War II oil tanks, Music in the Tank will be cause for great celebration with
two of Australia’s leading Indigenous songwriters and award-winning
performers; Anangu/Torres Strait Islander artist Miiesha, who has won
the 2020 ARIA Award for Best Soul/R&B release among other accolades,
alongside Pitjantjatjara man Frank Yamma.
5

62 • Tropic • Issue 36