Book Review
"Speaking
Stones: Rock Art of Ladakh" is a groundbreaking book that provides an
unparalleled visual and scholarly examination of the petroglyphs across Ladakh.
Authored by Ahtushi Deshpande, with a foreword by His Holiness the 14th Dalai
Lama, this hardcover edition spans 224 pages and includes over 200 photographs,
priced at INR 4500.00. It serves as the
first comprehensive visual documentation of Ladakh's petroglyphs, showcasing
them as open-air galleries that reveal early human creativity and communication.
Content and
Structure
The book documents
Ladakh's ancient rock carvings as significant historical artifacts. These
petroglyphs, created by prehistoric artists, are more than artistic
expressions; they offer insights into early human communication and creativity.
Key Highlights
·
Visual
Documentation: The book excels in its visual documentation, featuring
high-quality photographs enhanced by techniques such as bounced lights and macro
lenses to reveal intricate details.
·
Original
Research: It blends historical context, scientific analysis, and cultural
insights, providing a multi-faceted perspective on Ladakh's petroglyphs.
·
Preservation
Urgency: It emphasizes the urgent need to preserve these artworks, which are
threatened by urbanization and vandalism, aiming to foster greater interest in
conservation.
·
Cultural
Insight: Contributions from His Holiness the Dalai Lama provide deep cultural
context, emphasizing the carvings' spiritual and historical significance.
·
Solo
exhibition :In Paris this November, 2024
Photography and
Techniques
Ahtushi Deshpande's
decade-long dedication to this project is evident in her breathtaking images.
Her photography, enhanced by techniques such as light painting and extended
night exposures, captures the petroglyphs in their natural settings, bringing
the ancient carvings to life.
About the author:
Ahtushi Deshpande (b. 1969) is a self-taught photographer
whose passion for capturing nature's beauty was ignited by a transformative
trip to the Himalayas at twenty. A three-time breast cancer survivor, she
shares her journey through talks and interviews and authored "Speaking
Stones" during her third recurrence. With a background in economics,
Ahtushi transitioned from finance and television to full-time photography and
travel journalism in 2004. Her work has been showcased in numerous exhibitions
across India and featured in magazines like Outlook Traveler and National
Geographic Traveler. Her travelogue "To the Land of Snow" is now part
of high school literature syllabi.
Significance and
Appeal
"Speaking
Stones" is a valuable resource for various audiences:
·
Historians
and Archaeologists: Visual treat with a fresh perspective highlighting
petroglyphs from all regions
·
Art
Enthusiasts: For its aesthetic appreciation and high-standard photography.
·
Conservationists:
For its call to action in preserving ancient artifacts.
·
General
Readers: For its engaging narrative and stunning visuals, offering a unique
window into Ladakh's ancient heritage.
Peer Reviews
·
Janet Rizvi,
Historian and Writer: "This book will come as a revelation to
Ladakh-lovers and art historians. The sophistication of the artist's vision is
impressive."
·
Dr.
John Vincent Belezza, Author and Archaeologist: "Ahtushi Deshpande’s
lavishly illustrated book illuminates a hidden dimension of history and culture
on the Roof of the World."
Conclusion
"Speaking
Stones: Rock Art of Ladakh" is more than a book; it's a vital preservation
effort and a celebration of humanity's artistic legacy. It transports readers
to a time when early humans transformed Ladakh's rugged landscapes into
canvases of artistic expression. This book is an essential addition to any
collection, inspiring awe and a deeper appreciation for the ancient world. With
groundbreaking research, stunning visuals, and heartfelt advocacy for
preservation, "Speaking Stones" is destined to become a cornerstone
in the study of ancient art and culture, preserving Ladakh's petroglyph legacy
for future generations.
Connect:
·
ahtushi@gmail.com, ahtushi.author@gmail.com
·
www.ahtushi.com
·
www.speakingstonesladakh.com
(upcoming are backroom stories, behind the scenes and archive of the work
beyond the pages of the book)
·
Instagram
– @speakingstonesladakh
·
Mob –
9899248030/ Phone - +91 9899248030