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THE ADVENTURER'S GUIDE TO EARLY RETIREMENT A COMMON SENSE APPROACH BILLY AND AKAISHA KADERLI Buy it Now!

PHA TAEM CAVE PAINTINGS Khong Chiam, Thailand Billy and Akaisha Kaderli

Prehistoric cave paintings are found worldwide. Scholars theorize that these images served as a "how to" for hunting, or possibly held a ritualistic place in the tribe’s daily activities. Perhaps it was to ensure a good hunt, or encourage fertility in animals that were sought for food.

Certainly, they were not mere wall decorations. Artifacts of human habitation along side paintings are found in only one cave in the world.

The rest of these artworks are in "rooms" all their own, separated from the tribe’s living quarters. Actually, no one knows why, centuries ago, mankind took to recording his world through painting on cave walls.

The fact that these artworks exist, is a reminder that humankind has always wanted to depict their world. Even before the invention of writing, there was art.

Some of these drawings utilize the massiveness of the caves to enhance the subject matter. A rounded out portion to suggest a robust section of an animal, perhaps.

There can be shading or stippling to create fur or texture. A sense of proportion is present as well. The color itself was made from animal blood, the surrounding dirt of the area, and either animal fat or some type of vegetable gum to adhere it to the wall.

It is astounding that the color has survived these thousands of years through heat, cold, and moisture. Hundreds of images, including animals, tools, handprints, and geometrical designs are spread over a shear cliff face. They depict tribal life along the Mekong river three to four thousand years ago, and are a tribute to the creativity of prehistoric man.

Billy and Akaisha continue to journal and photograph their world travels.

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