Cave paintings, also known as cave art, comprise the earliest known examples of art in human history. Dating back at least 40,000 years and mainly being found in European countries, artworks on the walls of prehistoric caves depict a range of imagery. While they mostly represent images of animals, there are also examples of cave paintings depicting people and geometric forms. It is generally believed that these artworks held religious or symbolic purposes, although their true meaning will likely never be known. Some historians, however, have linked cave paintings to shamanic practices, including a ceremony in which a shaman would enter a trance state in a cave in order to make contact with spirits.
Characterized by natural red andblackpigments, wall carvings and sometimes sculptural depictions of animals and humans, the aesthetic and material qualities of cave art can be found in a diverse range of contemporary artist practices. To reflect the persistent influence of cave painting on the art world today, Artsper has curated a selection of artists that recall this ancient practice. Join us to discover them, with artists such asWilfredo LamandMiquela Vidal Barceló, today!
