Judging for the 2025 Gab Titui Indigenous Art Award is now complete, with the overall winner, runner up and category winners to be announced at opening night on Thursday, 12 June 2025.
This year’s panel was led by Principal Judge and renowned artist-curator Mr Teho Ropeyarn, supported by esteemed Cultural Advisors, Aunty Enid Tom, Mr Fred Peters and Mr John Tabo, who together brought deep cultural integrity and storytelling insight to the three-day judging process.
Together, they deliberated over 37 artworks, spanning mediums such as printmaking, ghost net sculpture, photography, painting and craft. Works were submitted by both emerging and established artists across the region, including secondary school students.
Surprised by the extensive judging process, Mr Ropeyarn said the Cultural Advisors enhanced his cultural knowledge through their powerful reflections on identity, Country, family and history.
“This has been an incredibly enriching cultural exchange. I approached the process as a learner, listening to the knowledge of the Cultural Advisors whose insights brought deeper meaning and historical context to the works,” Mr Ropeyarn said.
“We didn’t just assess technique; we honoured the stories, the places and the identity of each piece.”
Each year, the Gab Titui Indigenous Art Award produces fresh artistic expressions through familiar and new mediums. However, it remains rooted in cultural authenticity and honours its purpose to expose region-based artists to an Awards process.
Cultural Advisor, Fred Peters, is an experienced educator who enjoyed seeing the growth in young artists, and emphasised the importance of cultural interpretation through art.
“What I saw in these entries was not just talent, but a powerful legacy,” Mr Peters said.
“They were stories carried through generations, and made visual.
“As a teacher, I feel assured knowing our youth are embracing art to share who they are and where they come from,” he said.
Kaurareg Elder and Traditional Owner, Aunty Enid Tom said she was in awe of the quality of works and visual storytelling.
“Though I’m not an artist myself, I recognised the power of story in these artworks,” Ms Tom said.
“These 37 artists should be proud of themselves, many of them brought forward old traditions in such a meaningful way that shared knowledge and honoured Country.”
Cultural Advisor, John Tabo, a performing artist, community leader and founder of Mer’s Neguam Dance Troupe, said he was impressed by the cultural expression in the works.
“Seeing how these artists expressed their lineage, their knowledge and their culture through art, was a positive experience for me in this process,” Mr Tabo said.
“I encourage everyone who comes on opening night, especially families, to take the time to really look at these pieces and understand the message, and the story each artwork is telling from the artist’s perspective.”
Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) Chairperson George Nona congratulated all entrants and acknowledged the judging panel.
“We thank Principal Judge Teho Ropeyarn and our Cultural Advisors for guiding the selection process with cultural integrity and care,” Mr Nona said.
“I commend every artist for their submission and believe that opening night will showcase works of the highest calibre, created right here in yumi region.
“Community, visitors and arts stakeholders are encouraged to join us for the 2025 Gab Titui Indigenous Art Award opening night to celebrate this extraordinary collection of Zenadth Kes artworks.”
2025 Gab Titui Indigenous Art Award
Opening Night: Thursday, 12 June 2025
Location: Gab Titui Cultural Centre, Thursday Island
Join us for a night of celebration, cultural immersion and community pride.
For more information, contact the Gab Titui Cultural Centre team on CAHTeam@tsra.gov.au or 07 4069 0888.