The Kimberley area is well known for natural beauty and a diverse array of wildlife. However, it also has some of the greatest concentrations of Aboriginal rock art. The Kimberley is approximately three times the size of the United Kingdom and offers an incredible opportunity to explore Aboriginal history and culture.
The Amazing Wealth of Kimberley Rock Art
The indigenous rock art in the area is so massive that it is thought it will take generations to fully record. Dating the rock art is a work in process, but experts believe it is likely to be thousands of years old, and could potentially be the oldest in the world.
Rock art is culturally and historically important, providing insight into an early Aboriginal culture, allowing us to understand human movement patterns in ancient times.
Gwion Rock Art
This artwork features elongated, graceful human forms and animal figures. The humans are depicted with accessories including boomerangs, spears and dilly bags. Also known as Djaeneka Djaeneka or Kiro Kiro depending on the language spoken and area, Gwion rock art was discovered in the 1890s and dates back approximately 17,000 years. This artwork often includes different colours including black, mulberry and red.
You can view Gwion rock art in a number of sites on the River Roe, Drysdale River and Mitchell Falls, which are popular spots for many Kimberley tours.
Wanjina Rock Art
Wanjina or Wandjuna art was first recorded in 1837 by explorer George Grey and dates back 4,000 years. This type of art features spirit ancestors or creators in human form. They feature large, round eyes, mouthless faces and halos or headdresses. These figures are typically painted with outward pointing lines that resemble lightning and were thought to control the storms and rains of the wet season. Creator beings are said to reside in the rock or have left their bodies behind in the rocks.
Wanjina rock art can be viewed in the area around the Glenelg River, with well known sites at Eagle Rock, Donkey Creek, and the Drysdale River. Sites have also been documented in coastal caves off the coast of the Kimberley area on Bigge Island.
While significantly different, the remoteness of many rock art sites means that boat is the best way to travel to view them. The rock art depicts the lives of tribespeople who hunted and lived in the harsh terrain of the region.
If you are thinking about viewing Aboriginal rock art and contemplating Kimberley holiday packages, you should speak to us. We can help with planning your itinerary and recommend Kimberley tours that will allow you to fully explore the region. The Ocean Dreams team members are available to answer any queries about Kimberley cruises, 2018 availability and current packages.
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