Gumbula Indigenous Marine Animal Cushions Set 6

Immerse your classroom in the vibrant energy of Australia’s marine life with the Gumbula Indigenous Marine Animal Cushions – Set of 6.

Designed by internationally renowned artist and cultural ambassador John Smith Gumbula, this premium collection features six beautifully illustrated cushions: Dugong, Dolphin, Barramundi, Whale, Platypus, and Turtle.

Each animal is depicted with intricate, authentic Indigenous designs that celebrate their cultural and ecological significance, encouraging meaningful conversations about biodiversity and Aboriginal heritage.

Made from soft, velvet-like fabric with thick foam inserts, these cushions combine tactile comfort with powerful storytelling.

They are perfect for transforming learning areas into engaging, culturally rich spaces—ideal for use in reading corners, sensory zones, or collaborative group settings.

Each cushion serves not only as a seating option but also as a visual anchor for discussions around Country, stewardship, and interconnection between land, sea, and people. Designed to spark curiosity, promote environmental respect, and foster cultural pride, this set is a must-have for inclusive, dynamic educational environments.

Educational Benefits:

• Introduces marine species through culturally significant Aboriginal art.
• Encourages environmental consciousness and stewardship from a young age.
• Supports sensory and inclusive learning with soft, cushioned seating.
• Fosters cross-cultural understanding and respectful classroom dialogue.

Classroom Ideas:

• Use each cushion as a storytelling prompt to explore Dreamtime marine narratives.
• Create a marine discovery zone that connects art with environmental science.
• Facilitate discussions on the role of animals in Indigenous knowledge systems.
• Incorporate cushions into mindfulness spaces to support self-regulation and calm.

Information:

• Ages: Suitable for early years and primary school settings
• Measurements: Dugong – 47cm; Dolphin – 40cm; Barramundi – 47cm; Whale – 48cm; Platypus – 47cm; Turtle – 47cm
• Material: Velvet-feel polyester with thick foam inserts for comfort
• Care: Machine washable fabric; refer to care labels for instructions

About the Artist:

JOHN SMITH GUMBULA
‘QEII SILVER JUBILEE QUEEN’S TRUST AWARDEE’
CULTURAL AMBASSADOR | SENIOR INDIGENOUS AFFAIRS ADVISOR | CHIEF CREATIVE

Biography brief:

Uncle John Smith Gumbula began his remarkable artistic and cultural journey at an early age in the winter of 1978 at the age of ten, from a hospital bed in Mount Morgan, Gangulu Country Queensland, after being diagnosed with Scheuermann’s disease a spinal condition that would become the unexpected catalyst for a lifetime of creative and cultural expression.

Today, Uncle John Smith Gumbula stands as a highly respected Cultural Ambassador, with over four decades of dedicated advocacy and leadership across the arts, cultural affairs, education, technology, and innovation. A proud Wakka Wakka | Gurang Gurang man, with Gamilaroi and Iman family lineage, Uncle John holds strong cultural connections with Indigenous communities across Queensland, and Nationwide.

As a proud adopted son of the Yolŋu people of Galiwin’ku (Elcho Island) in Arnhem Land, Uncle John carries with him a deep and diverse wealth of cultural knowledge, lived wisdom, traditional practices, and storytelling. His experience spans more than four decades, with a broad local and international footprint that has evolved across multiple industries, sectors, and diverse communities, making him a trusted and unifying voice in the journey toward reconciliation, cultural empowerment, inclusion, shared futures, and generational change.

On his late mother’s side, he also carries an ancient Irish and Scottish bloodline, creating a unique cultural identity that bridges First Nations and Celtic traditions.

Recipient of the prestigious ‘QEII Silver Jubilee Queen’s Trust Award’, Uncle John is internationally well versed and traveled, recognised for his passionate leadership in “creating cultural bridges of understanding on a world stage.” His passion, wisdom and philosophy is to inspire, and be inspired, we are teachers and students for each other on this dreaming pathway journey of life. Formulating diverse creative practice and cultural consultancy have evolved on his global journey, highlighting the cultural spiritual significance and celebrating Indigenous knowledge and wisdom, establishing cross-cultural strategic partnerships, and positioning meaningful educational creative inclusion across multiple sectors, and global nations.

“My Cultural Heritage proudly resonates in my Heart, Spirit, and Life, keeping culture strong and alive, spiritually and physically connecting me to Country.”
Uncle John Smith Gumbula - Aspiring Elder | Uncle & Grandfather