The deterioration of rock-art over time is an important concernfOr indigenous communities) archaeologists) rock-art researchers)and cultural heritage managers.Computer enhancement has emewed as an important tool in viewing poorly visible rockpaintings. While most studies regarding this technique explore the methods associated with computer enhancement here is little discussion of the results that can begenerated beyond the recovery of images. This article presents results from the application of computer enhancement methods to rock paintings from the Torres Strait region in NE Queensland. The results obtained through the computer enhancement of deteriorated rock paintings are used to reveal degrees of preservation) interregional interaction) and previously undocumented spatial patterning across the strait.
IntroductionThe creation of art on rock is a fIXed,tangible expression of an artist's visual culture. Yetthe permanency of these artworks over time is variable. Many artworks are damaged by both anthropogenic (e.g., graffiti) and natural factors (e.g., water or fire damage), which decrease the visibility of images over time. Documentation of rock-art (paintings, stencils, and engravings) by professional rock-art recorders, archaeologists, and indigenous communities has until recently been undertaken by recording and analyzing those images that can still be viewed with the nal(ed eye. Strategies for recording these images include making simple sketches, drawings, tracings, rubbings, and using conventional film photography. But how can we study those images that have deteriorated or faded to such a point that they can no longer be viewed or recorded using conventional techniques? Furthermore, how can those images that have experienced considerable deterioration over time contribute to the analysis and interpretation of a region's rock-art assemblage? The introduction of digital technology and computer enhancement methods into rock-art recording presents researchers with an opportunity to record and examine heavily deteriorated images that would have been missed using conventional recording techruques.In this paper, I review the development of digital tech-