Carving a future for British rock art - Tertia Barnett

Over the last few years, the ways in which we perceive and
document rock art have shifted irreversibly. Prehistoric rock art
played little part in the development of British and Irish
archaeology and was not recognised until the 19th century, when
its equivalents in Scandinavia and the Iberian Peninsula were
already well known. Previously considered a fringe activity and
the work of amateur archaeologists, over the last 30 years the
situation has improved considerably, and the appearance of books
such as this signify the change.This volume makes a powerful case for an archaeology that
integrates rock art into a wider vision of the past. It brings
together the experiences and informed opinions of the key
organisations and stakeholders responsible for the conservation,
management and accessibility of British rock art. An on-going and
exciting period of change is documented here and the main issues
that underpin the survival of our prehistoric carved heritage are
addressed.Grouped into three sections, the chapters cover the recording,
management and presentation of British rock art. The
contributions illustrate the wide range of perceptions and
approaches to the study, and the diversity of individuals and
institutions who have become drawn into this fascinating subject,
with independent researchers, heritage managers, artists and
academics each bringing a unique perspective. This book aims to
both inform new directions in rock art management strategies and
provoke further initiatives through which these strategies can be
implemented.