Transform classroom environments into immersive cultural learning spaces with the Dreamtime Country – Sacred Lands Indoor Floor Mat. Featuring the powerful and evocative artwork "My Country, Sacred Place" by acclaimed Aboriginal artist Uncle John Smith Gumbula, this large-format floor mat invites children to connect with the spirit of Country through vibrant storytelling and traditional symbolism. More than a decorative feature, this floor mat becomes a cultural anchor—offering an inclusive foundation for learning that honours the rich heritage, land, and stories of Australia’s First Nations Peoples.
The intricately printed artwork reflects sacred relationships with land, water, animals, and kinship systems, providing a visual landscape that encourages inquiry, imagination, and cultural respect. Designed for durability, the mat includes a non-slip rubber backing and soft polyester surface, making it safe and suitable for early learning centres, libraries, and indoor cultural zones. Its generous size offers ample space for group learning, yarning circles, or quiet reflection. The Dreamtime Country floor mat is an essential teaching tool that nurtures respectful conversation, builds identity and belonging, and enriches understanding of Indigenous perspectives in a meaningful and accessible way.
Educational Benefits:
Encourages cultural awareness and appreciation through authentic Indigenous artwork.
Supports identity and belonging by connecting children to stories of land and community.
Inspires visual literacy, storytelling and artistic expression.
Enhances learning environments with inclusive and culturally responsive design.
Classroom Ideas:
Use during Dreamtime storytelling sessions or yarning circles.
Set up a cultural reflection area or meditation space with the mat as a centrepiece.
Inspire art activities based on the symbols and colours in the mat.
Use in conjunction with discussions about land, environment and Indigenous stewardship.
Safety & Information:
Recommended Age: 3 years and up
Measurements: 200 cm (L) x 140 cm (W)
Materials: Short weave polyester top, non-slip rubber backing
Care Instructions: Easy to wipe clean; for indoor use only; place on flat surfaces
About the Artist:
JOHN SMITH GUMBULA ‘QEII SILVER JUBILEE QUEEN’S TRUST AWARDEE’ CULTURAL AMBASSADOR | SENIOR INDIGENOUS AFFAIRS ADVISOR | CHIEF CREATIVE
Biography brief:
Indigenous Artist Uncle John Smith Gumbula Uncle John’s artistic and cultural journey began in the winter of 1978, at just 10 years of age, from a hospital bed in Mount Morgan, Queensland, following a diagnosis of Scheuermann’s disease. Spending long periods in and out of the hospital until he could walk again, he discovered a lifelong calling in creativity and cultural expression.
Since those formative years, Uncle John has devoted his life to championing Indigenous cultural affairs across the arts, education, technology, and innovation. A proud WakkaWakka | GorengGoreng man, with family ties across Queensland, New South Wales, and Western Australia. Uncle John proudly carries the ancient Scottish and Irish heritage of his Mother, and is honoured as an adopted son of the Yolŋu people of Galiwinku, Elcho Island. He carries a profound cultural responsibility and deep connection to Country.
As a recipient of the prestigious 'QEII Silver Jubilee Queen’s Trust Award', Uncle John has spent more than four decades working passionately across diverse creative mediums. His life’s work is dedicated to building cultural bridges of understanding—locally, nationally, and internationally—fostering respect, collaboration, and positive change between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.
Uncle John’s contemporary Aboriginal creations are born from personal cultural connection, expressed through vibrant colours and evolving creative styles developed over more than 40 years of artistic journey and lived experience.
This furniture has a risk of falling over. Wall anchors should be used when an
item has a warning tip over label.
Children have died from furniture tipover.
ALWAYS secure this furniture with an anchor device.
NEVER allow children to stand, climb or hang on drawers, doors, or shelves.
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