Archaeology of rock art in Jawoyn country, western Arnhem Land

  • David, Bruno (Primary Chief Investigator (PCI))
  • Clarkson, Christopher (Chief Investigator (CI))
  • McNiven, Ian (Chief Investigator (CI))
  • Delannoy, Jean-Jacques (Partner Investigator (PI))
  • Geneste, Jean-Michel (Partner Investigator (PI))
  • Plisson, Hugues (Partner Investigator (PI))

Project: Research

Project Details

Project Description

Arnhem Land contains the nation's oldest known Aboriginal sites. It is among the richest and most spectacular rock art regions in the world. Its rock art galleries feature prominently in popular films and tourism promotions; they continue to influence artists world-wide. Iconic notions rooted in Arnhem Land's Aboriginal imagery - the Rainbow Serpent, X-ray art and the didgeridoo - feature prominently in the nation's identity. Yet we know little of its age and history. Here we focus on dating Arnhem Land's rock art through archaeological/geomorphic methods. Results will be published in journals/magazines and books, and feature in tourism promotions around the globe.
StatusFinished
Effective start/end date1/07/11 → 31/12/14

Funding

  • Australian Research Council (ARC): A$500,000.00
  • Jawoyn Association Aboriginal Corporation: A$150,000.00