This set of fabric Aboriginal printed cushions features the painting Leaves Over Country by Indigenous artist Billyara.  This set of bright cushions includes Large Dots, Circles, and Falling Leaves.

Each of the Aboriginal pillows is made from a velvet polyester, and is super soft to touch. Each of the 3 cushions feature the same print on the front and back of the cushion. These Aboriginal pillows measure 50cm wide x 50cm high, and feature a removable, soft foam padded insert. The cushion covers are removable and machine washable in cold water.

Billyara describes the painting used in the printed cushions as follows:

“Leaves over Country is a painting based on a conversation I had with an Elder many years ago about how all things on Earth are living. Leaves in Aboriginal culture have many meanings and purposes for our people. They are used when we are sick to heal wounds and for smoking ceremonies, to cleanse a person or area. For shelter when we need protection from the elements and for fire to keep us warm. To cleanse the air we breathe and to provide food for animals and people.

Not only do leaves have purpose when they are living and connected to trees, they also have purpose when they have disconnected from their branches and have blown along in the wind. Leaves protect the soil from drying out and when they decay they enrich the soil with nutrients for future flora and fauna to thrive. This painting shows a journey from one waterhole to another, across country and past sacred grounds where traditions and knowledge have been passed on. Like the leaf, we once swept over country having many purposes and living as one with nature, enriching our environment for our future generations to thrive."

Billyara is a respected artist from the Wiradjuri tribe. The name Billyara comes from the artist’s totem, an eagle, which stems from his connection with the land. He has been painting Aboriginal art for 23 years and teaches these traditions to younger generations. His artwork is a mix of traditional and contemporary Aboriginal art with a Western influence. He has exhibited extensively, and has sold his paintings internationally.

Through a relationship with Modern Teaching Aids, Billyara hopes to introduce contemporary Aboriginal art to young children in fun and engaging ways. Through play, children are able to understand the people and the world around them. Our range of global and multicultural resources help to support children’s learning about their communities, as well as the world in general.

These resources aid in the promotion of understanding and acceptance of different cultures, beliefs, languages, families, appearances and lifestyles. As children gain an understanding of their community, they also gain an understanding of themselves. This develops confidence and a sense of identity. Incorporating multicultural resources into play is a great way to introduce these concepts in fun and unobtrusive ways.

These cushions have been treated with an anti microbial product from Fresche Bioscience. This antimicrobial treatment scan kill up to 99.9% of odour causing bacteria. It can also help to prevent the formation of harmful biofilms, and helps to prevent infestation of dust mites. This new anti-microbial treatment also inhibits the growth of mould, mildew and fungus in these sheets. This treatment does wear away over time with washing, and so it does not last forever. This time will depend on how often the cushion covers are washed and how they are washed and dried.