A brother and sister will make history at this year’s Cairns Indigenous Art Fair after the pair were appointed to choreograph the event’s fashion performance.
The 2019 Cairns Indigenous Art Fair has begun, with a dance performance by the Mingal dancers of Cairns.
Choreographers and sibling duo Mykelle and Jaydn Bingarape have been given the task of putting the performance together under this year’s theme, ‘woven’.
“As a sibling duo, it is an honour and privilege to be part of such a special project,” Ms Bingarape said.
Choreographers and sibling duo Mykelle and Jaydn Bingarape ahead of the CIAF fashion performance in mid- July. Picture: Blueclick Photography
“The theme woven can be interpreted as the interconnectivity of our culture and that can seep into the design of the clothing.”
Jaydn Bingarape said he will place an emphasis on all voices being heard.
“We will be able to work with others in the group so everyone’s story is told,” Mr Bingarape said.
Choreographers and sibling duo Mykelle and Jaydn Bingarape with model Gillyba Ambrum ahead of the CIAF fashion performance in mid- July. Picture: Blueclick Photography
“Although we are the choreographers, it will be a combined effort.”
The two agreed that a job of this scale was nerve wracking.
“We want our movement to represent the richness of our people,” Ms Bingarape said.
“I can’t lie I’m slightly nervous, it’s our first production of this scale.”
Performance curator Lynelle Flinders said one of the pieces was created by Yarrabah artist Michelle Yeatman.
Choreographers and sibling duo Mykelle and Jaydn Bingarape (outer) with model Gillyba Ambrum and curator Lynelle Flinders ahead of the CIAF fashion performance in mid- July. Picture: Blueclick Photography
“We’ve got such vibrant colours that are symbolic of the nature around us like the reef, and our artists stretch from Thursday Island all the way down to the south east,” Ms Flinders said.
“It’s exciting because our stories and how we present our stories will be told.”
The fashion performance will take place at Tanks Art Centre on July 13 and 14.
Prices for tickets range from $30 – $60 and are available on the Tanks website.