Cafe epicentre welcomes artists, DJs and locals as new spot is inducted into the Cairns street art scene
Since its opening in 2009, Caffiend has been at the forefront of Cairns’ coffee and art scenes. Previously situated in the laneway between Grafton and Lake Streets, team Caffiend - led by owner Oliver James - has initiated several projects to bring ‘Melbourne feels’ to Cairns in the form of vibrant street art.
Now located amongst the popular cluster of cafes at the heart of Grafton Street, Caffiend is stirring up nostalgia with many of the original artists returning for a brand new project.
The latest addition will adorn the yet uninspiring laneway between two of Cairns’ favourite cafes - Candy and Lillipad. Taking place over the fourth weekend in June, the public can get involved by attending the Wrap Party, joining the workshop or checking out the transformation as it takes place.
Project Timeline
Saturday 24 June 2023
Painting begins on Saturday morning, with iconic artists including PHIBS, Mint, Tune and Caroline Mudge contributing to the design.
● Locals encouraged to come down to Grafton Street and watch the magic happen
● Follow @caffiend_cairns on Instagram to see snippets of the transformation
● Tag #GraftonStreetArt on socials
From 3 pm, local street artist Kane Maneylaws (aka Mint) will host a 90-minute workshop for participants aged 10 years + to try street art for themselves.
● No experience necessary. Enthusiasm required!
● Strictly limited capacity - workshop expected to book out
● All equipment provided
● Tickets available for purchase online - $38 via Eventbrite.com.au
Sunday 25 June
Painting will continue through to Sunday afternoon, with the official ‘Wrap Party’ hosted by Caffiend kicking off around 4 pm.
● Funky vibes inside the venue and through to the back courtyard, where guests can view the finished street art
● Food provided by lockdown favourite Smoky Pete’s BBQ - recently revived for Caffiend’s 14th birthday party in May
● Guerrilla will be supplying their famous $7 tacos
● Selection of natural wines and cocktails; local beer from Macalister’s; soft drinks
● Entertainment local DJs until dark
● Tickets available online for $5 via Eventbrite.com.au until 4 pm, 24 June. $10 on the door
● Under 18s go free
Caffiend owner, Oliver James says; “We used to have heaps of fun with the street art projects. I’m super excited to welcome back many of our favourite artists - including the legendary PHIBS, who has been involved with each of our street art projects and actually designed the Caffiend logo for us.
“I’m excited to see the buzz the new art generates around our section of the street. We’ve seen previous projects attract locals and tourists alike to the area - it just improves the overall vibe and makes it somewhere people enjoy hanging out.”
Candy Cafe owner Chantelle Kenyon says; “I think revamping the alleyway is a great idea. Grafton Street has a great atmosphere and this will add to it. I can't wait to see the finished product!"
For more information, head to Caffiend’s Facebook page. More announcements coming - click interested on the event to stay updated.
Secure tickets to the Wrap Party and Workshop via Eventbrite.
