It is important for artists and art-lovers in a relatively remote area such as Cairns to see and appreciate the works of local artists in the wider context of the national and international art-world. Inkmasters has helped to establish Cairns as a hub of printmaking activity, with indigenous and non-indigenous artists collaborating and sharing facilities and expertise. InkFest, with its community engagement activities, and the Inkmasters Print Exhibition in particular, cement and extend this reputation for printmaking excellence. Our event promotes artistic endeavour and encourages cultural tourism in the region. We seek awards totalling $15,000 for the Inkmasters Print Exhibition in order to put the event on a footing similar to other major printmaking awards in Australia, thus ensuring the highest quality of entries and most successful exhibition outcome possible.

Donations to the project will be used for several non-acquisitive awards for works selected by the independent judges for their conceptual and technical excellence. The awards will be announced at the launch of the exhibition on Fri 27 Jul after a short presentation on contemporary printmaking by a special guest speaker. Information about Inkmasters Cairns, our achievements and activities can be found on our website: http://www.inkmasterscairns.com.au
Entries for the InkMasters Print Exhibition are open now. The Entry Form and details can be found here: http://www.inkmasterscairns.com.au/inkfest-2018-biennial-festival-all-things-print
The exhibition is widely promoted in print and electronic media as well as Tanks Arts Centre promotions, and archived in the enduring form of a catalogue that includes an entry and image for each shortlisted artist. All artists receive a catalogue.