The petroglyphs of Bangucheon encompass heritage sites in Ulsan's Ulju-gun, including the Cheonjeon-ri petroglyphs and Bangudae petroglyphs in Daegok-ri, both designated as national treasures.
Millions of years ago, humans began crafting tools and expressing themselves through art. Prehistoric artists, using stone and bronze tools, depicted scenes and emotions on cave walls, laying the foundation for human creativity. Simple themes like hunting and animal worship dominated early art, seen in notable sites like the Vézère Valley, Pont d'Arc, and Altamira.
As humanity progressed, tools evolved, allowing for more intricate rock art like petroglyphs. The Bangucheon petroglyphs in Korea, spanning from the Neolithic to the Bronze Age, are remarkable examples. These ancient artworks, reflecting hunting, rituals, and prayers, hold historical significance and aesthetic beauty.
While we may not view petroglyph creators as traditional artists, their craftsmanship is undeniable. Despite uncertainty about their purpose, appreciating their beauty along the Bangucheon Stream is essential. This upcoming series aims to explore their significance in art history.
Main Image Image: A part of Cheonjeon-ri art rocks, courtesy Ulsan Petroglyph Museum.
Anna Melnykova, "Palace of Labor (palats praci), architector I. Pretro, 1916", shot with analog Canon camera, 35 mm Fuji film in March 2022.
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