Rock art is one of the most striking and fragile legacies of prehistoric societies. Open-air, caves and rock shelters sites were decorated around the world during prehistoric times and UNESCO has repeatedly recognized their heritage value as the first examples of the art of humanity. This commission is conceived as a place for discussion, reflexion and collaboration on the research, preservation, and dissemination of prehistoric rock art.
Rock art is a world-wide phenomenon and also a major milestone in humankind's development - relevance that has been recognised by several UNESCO World Heritage designations. In fact, these archaeological sites are not just a source of scientific information about the past, they are also a unique heritage that needs to be researched, preserved, and disseminated for nowadays and future generations. It is a legacy linked to the evolution of humanity and our interaction with this phenomenon is a reflection of the kind of society we are building. This is to say, rock art is subject to many common challenges of today’s society such as climate change, industrialisation, the ethical use of new technologies or widespread access to quality education. At the same time, art is a universal vehicle for the transmission of ideas and knowledge. In a way, it acts as a common reference that favours the resilience of society in the face of constant change.
The objectives of the Prehistoric Art Commission are to stimulate and coordinate interregional research in the field of prehistoric art and to organize thematic meetings between UISPP Congresses. This commission has a special interesting in promoting significant actions in terms of excellence such as participation in the organization of researchers, Workshops, seminars or other initiatives related to the study, protection, conservation, and dissemination of prehistoric art (rock art and portable art) and acting in favour of the preservation of the sites of art in danger all over the world.
The Prehistoric Art commission is open to the participation of all those researchers who wish to do so, by registering with the UISPP, as well as to collaborate and share initiatives with other public and/or private institutions whose aims coincide with those described here. You are all welcome.
