Wuy'mirri' Yur Bulanyji’ Whale Shark Dreaming

John Smith Gumbula began his artistic journey in the winter of 1978 aged 10 from a hospital bed, diagnosed with a spinal condition called Scheuermann's disease. John is a Cultural Ambassador and is passionate about the arts, cultural affairs, education, technology, and innovation. An advocate for Indigenous people and culture for over three decades, John seeks to 'create cultural bridges of understanding on a world stage'.

A recipient of the QEII Silver Jubilee Queens Trust Award, and a proud WakkaWakka | GurangGurang/GorengGoreng First Nations man of Queensland, John is also an adopted Son of the traditional Yolngu people of Galiwinku, Elcho Island, Northern Territory. John also has an ancient bloodline of Celtic Irish and Scottish heritage.

Check out John's website and follow John on Instagram.

The 'Wuy'mirri yur bulanytji' (whale shark) is a significant and sacred animal in the dreaming stories of Aboriginal people, particularly in coastal regions of Australia. The whale shark is often depicted as a protector of the sea and a symbol of strength, wisdom, and abundance. Aboriginal people of coastal sea country believe that the Wuy'mirri' yur bulanytji' is a sign of good luck, carrying the spirits of their ancestors and serving as a guide for those lost at sea.