The rock art of Namibia represents a priceless heritage, scattered over many hundreds of painting and engraving sites in almost every part of the country. Nobody knows exactly when this ancient tradition finally died out, but the San or Bushman people of today still maintain some of the beliefs and practices related to the art. Although they differ in some respects, the paintings and engravings are both overwhelmingly concerned with ritual healing and the supernatural. Research in this field will continue for many years, and as knowledge and appreciation of the rock art increases, so does the need to protect the sites for future generations. An impressive number of paintings and engravings have been documented, but much of this truly national gallery of art must still remain to be rediscovered and enjoyed.
Rock art can be a source of inspiration of the future culture of Namibia.
The exhibition will be open from 16 April 1997 to mid-1998. During the exhibition there will be a tearoom in the garden of the Owela Display and Education Centre , where coffee, tea, drinks and light snacks will be served by Penduka, Namibia . In cooperation with Penduka and the Kuru Development Trust the Museum shop will sell posters, postcards, music, books and craft items. The Kuru Art Centre is part of the Kuru Development Trust in Botswana. This foundation of the Bushmen and for the Bushmen aims to improve their economic and cultural situation.