Rock art
Rock art is the oldest surviving human art form. In NSW, it is a link with Aboriginal life and customs before European settlement. Pictures on rocks were an important part of Aboriginal songs, stories, and customs that connected people with the land.
There are a number of different styles of rock art used across NSW, both of paintings and drawings and rock engravings. OEH conserves many rock art sites, working with local Aboriginal community groups. If you visit rock art sites, please be careful not to touch or damage the art and to show respect for the sites and surrounding areas.
Rock art conservation
Some past conservation practices have led to the escalation of environmental impacts and have resulted in further damage to sites and it is for this reason that conservation measures and techniques must be carefully planned, evaluated and monitored. OEH has developed an introductory guide to the preservation of Aboriginal rock art to assist staff, consultants and Aboriginal communities gain an understanding of conservation techniques and protocols for rock art conservation within NSW.
Learn about rock art
Paintings and drawings
See how wet and dry pigments are used to paint and draw with. Find out which parks you should visit to see this type of rock art.
Rock engravings
Learn how rocks are pecked, hammered or scraped to form shapes. Get tips on the parks and reserves you'll find rock engravings in.
Page last updated: 09 November 2012
