Cave Painting - Australia's First Art

In the ethereal, cavernous amphitheatre of the Ubirr Main Gallery, we were confronted with a blaze of extensive murals. Art that linked to nature, linked to history, linked to spiritual beliefs and linked to culture. It was the work product of generations. Of discerning eyes, trained in painstaking observation, presented with creative flair and acute attention to detail. 

The photographs in this book were taken on multiple trips from 1977 to 2023 to the Northern Territory, Western Australia, South Australia and Queensland. 

We have mused over why, as a white people would we feel a connection to this art? Was it any business of ours?  We have no ancestral connection to country, know nothing of the dreamtime and its stories other than what we have read. We are merely photographers, observers of what we see. We do particularly enjoy the modern art of the surrealists and the abstract impressionists. 

It seems Australia's cave art, whilst an integral part of indigenous culture, transcends and reaches out as great art can. In the absence of a cultural understanding of its heritage, it still speaks loudly with its own voice. 

 

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands from these galleries, and recognise their continuing connection to country. Their inspirational work of centuries has created an enduring ambassadorship for their culture and creativity. An invaluable, precious, but fragile and vulnerable legacy.

 

Wayne & Pam’s books have been downloaded in 41 countries.