Rock Art Research

This paper examines the motivations underpinning contemporary rock art practices in western  Arnhem Land, offering insights into their cultural, social, and personal significance. Co-author Timothy  Warandja Nabegeyo, a Traditional Owner for Country surrounding Mandilbareng, provides a unique Indigenous perspective grounded in lived experience. In 2020, Warandja and members of his family renewed a fading rock art gallery at a site in the Mardabay area of his Country. Adopting a biographical approach,  the paper presents multiple levels of analysis to explore how the creation and renewal of rock art continue to hold meaning and relevance for an Indigenous Australian in the present day. It argues that contemporary rock art practices not only reaffirm customary responsibilities and obligations to Country but also serve to support Warandja’s aspirations toward the autonomous development of his outstation.