Australian Indigenous Rock Art is the oldest unbroken tradition of Art in the world. The oldest dated Rock Art painting in Australia is a charcoal drawing on a rock fragment found during the excavation of the Narwala Gabarnmang rock shelter in the Northern Territory, dated at 28,000 years.
Aboriginal rock art on the Barnett River, Mount Elizabeth Station © Graeme Churchard (CC)
Examples have been found that are believed to depict extinct megafauna as well as more recent historical events such as the arrival of European Ships. Some of my most favourite drawings are the Wandjina figures who are the Supreme Spirit beings and creators of the land and people. It is the most beautiful evocative Figurative Rock Art and holds a special place in my heart.
Bradshaw rock paintings in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, taken at a site off Kalumburu Road near the King Edward River. © Bradshaw Art (CC)