A STUDY OF ROCK PAINTINGS

(A CASE STUDY OF BAUCHI AND JIGAWA STATES)

By

Author

Presented To

Department of Environmental Design

ABSTRACT
Globally, rock paintings are age-long art forms that have revealed the activities of early humans in the respective sites. This is similar to the rock paintings in Bauchi and Jigawa States of Nigeria. The Study of Rock Paintings in Bauchi and Jigawa States is carried out to: Identify the imageries that constitute the rock paintings in Bauchi and Jigawa states, investigate specific similarities and differences that exist between the rock paintings of Bauchi and Jigawa States, examine the socio-cultural functions of the paintings and engravings, see the paintings and engravings in Bauchi and Jigawa states and document same. All the rock paintings that were identified in the selected areas were discussed and analyzed, and subsequently documented. In the course of the study also, it was discovered that there were similarities and differences in the imageries, styles and colours used in executing the rock paintings. Again, the study revealed that, the rock paintings in Bauchi and Jigawa States served various functions such as: magical, religious and ceremonial purposes. At present, the dwellers no longer participate in ceremonies that are linked to the rock paintings due to their current faith. It was confirmed that, these rock paintings actually exist and the sites are good for tourism activities. The tourism sector should integrate same in their program to help boost tourism in Nigeria. Most of the rock paintings are badly defaced either by human activities of bad weather, while some of the rock paintings sites are not fenced, and some, have no tour guides. Hence, the researcher recommends that Nigerian Government and non-governmental organizations should sponsor researchers to work more in-depth in the area of rock paintings in Nigeria. Also, they should put in place, measures that will protect the fast deterioration of Rock Paintings in Bauchi and Jigawa States. Walls or fences should be built in all the rock painting sites. All roads leading to the rock paintings should be reconstructed, tarred and guides/workers be appointed on all the rock painting sites.