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Gumbula - Aboriginal Art Puzzles - Set of 4
JJ051
MTA Teachers Resource Catalogue Page: 697
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Introduce children to rich cultural learning through hands-on play with the Gumbula – Aboriginal Art Puzzles – Set of 4. Designed by the esteemed Indigenous artist and cultural leader John Smith Gumbula, this captivating set features four hand-cut wooden puzzles that reflect the vibrancy and depth of Aboriginal art. Each puzzle invites learners into a world of story, identity, and heritage, with traditional patterns and symbolic details that celebrate the connection between Australia’s First Nations peoples and the land.
These tactile resources are more than just puzzles—they are gateways to Indigenous knowledge systems. Each tray puzzle measures 20cm x 15cm and includes six large pieces, crafted for small hands to grip and manipulate with ease. Whether used individually or as a shared activity, they offer a meaningful opportunity to engage with cultural storytelling and pattern recognition. With a balance of educational depth and child-friendly design, this puzzle set is ideal for yarning circles, art exploration sessions, and cultural units in early childhood and primary settings. They not only foster fine motor skills and problem-solving but also support respectful cultural dialogue in the classroom.
Educational Benefits:
- Builds fine motor control and coordination through engaging, hands-on play.
- Introduces learners to the symbolism and style of authentic Indigenous artwork.
- Enhances visual-spatial reasoning and sequencing with manageable puzzle formats.
- Promotes creative thinking through interpretation of cultural imagery and stories.
Classroom Ideas:
- Invite students to discuss the meaning behind each artwork and tell related Dreamtime stories.
- Use puzzles in rotational play-based stations during NAIDOC or Reconciliation Week.
- Encourage paired work to build cooperation while exploring Indigenous perspectives.
- Inspire student-led art projects based on the colours, shapes, and symbols in each design.
Information:
- Ages: Suitable for children aged 3+ years
- Contents: Includes 4 wooden tray puzzles featuring Aboriginal artwork
- Material: Durable wood with large, easy-to-handle puzzle pieces
- Measurements: Each puzzle measures 20cm (W) x 15cm (L); 6 pieces per puzzle
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
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.
- NEVER open more than one drawer at a time.
- ALWAYS place heavy items down low.
