Speaking Stones: Rock art of Ladakh

The exhibition Speaking Stones: Rock Art of Ladakh is currently on display at the India International Centre, running until May 28. The show offers a rare opportunity to explore the ancient rock art of Ladakh, a region known for its striking landscapes and cultural significance.

Based on Ahtushi Deshpande’s 2024 book, Speaking Stones: Rock Art of Ladakh, the exhibition presents over a decade of fieldwork, including photographs of petroglyphs found in some of Ladakh’s most remote locations. Many of these artworks, which have begun to fade, are now being shown to the public for the first time.

Deshpande uses innovative photography techniques, such as night photography and light painting, to present the petroglyphs as works of visual art, offering a fresh perspective on these ancient symbols. The exhibition covers a range of Ladakh’s diverse landscapes, from the northern passes and Changthang desert to the regions of Kargil and Zanskar.

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“My first visit to Ladakh in 2005 sparked a lasting fascination with the region’s rugged beauty. In 2011, my exploration took a pivotal turn when I set eyes on a rock art site in remote Changthang—an open-air gallery of boulders engraved with beautiful art. This profound encounter ignited a dedicated mission to document these enigmatic artworks,” said Ahtushi Deshpande.

When: Until May 28

Where: India International Centre (IIC), New Delhi