Rock Art at Risk

The Rock Art Network with its extensive international knowledge base is aware that rock art is under threat across the globe.

In some parts of the world rock art is still being made as part of ongoing cultural traditions, and the knowledge of rock art and its significance continues to be passed down from generation to generation. The vast majority of rock art sites, however represent the imprint and history of cultures and practices of times past. This legacy stretches back to the dawn of human artistic practice. It is an irreplaceable cultural treasure. Year by year, rock art is deteriorating or disappearing from the impact of natural and human factors.

Rock art is continually threatened by natural processes, such as rock weathering, water damage, exposure to sunlight, vegetation growth, impacts from animals and environmental events such as fires, floods, and earthquakes.

Human damage to and destruction of rock art has become a greater risk than natural threats. Rock art is particularly vulnerable where there are activities related to mining, water management (e.g. dams and pipelines), agriculture, or tourism. Unrestricted urban and industrial development often have negative impacts on rock art sites. A lack of awareness by governments and developers who don’t value this heritage compounds the problem. This can have a disastrous effect on the well-being and integrity of cultural groups still practicing rock art or safeguarding its stories. Displacement and the effect of pressures which interrupt cultural transmission, put rock art as a living tradition under threat.

Poorly managed tourism at rock art sites can lead to graffiti, touching, and in some cases vandalism and looting. Uncontrolled visitation can lead to erosion, dust from foot and vehicle traffic, rubbish, noise pollution and disrespect to local culture. Irresponsible research activity and unqualified attempts at conservation sometimes add to these problems.

Many of these threats can be mitigated by proven conservation and management approaches including the engagement of communities along with increased public recognition of the value of rock art. An underlying issue is a lack of recognition of the importance and value of rock art in many parts of the world. This results in a deficiency of government and community leadership and commitment to protection. Training, knowledge and resources for protecting rock art are severely lacking in many parts of the world.