Ancient rock art images usually employ rather common earth-tone pigments and
common animal or human shapes. The so called All American Man found in the Salt
Creek drainage of Canyonlands National Park located in Southeastern Utah, stands
out as a unique example of Anasazi rock art both in style and location. Dating
from circa 1250 A.D., this multi-colored image was painted on the inside wall of
a small sandstone alcove - once an Anasazi dwelling. The artist who created this
intriguing figure understood the materials and medium for illustration and where
the most protected spot would be for the figure, placed high enough on the
canyon wall to be above any flood water and where direct sunlight never
threatens to fade the unique colors. Because of the remote location and deep
shelter in the sandstone recess the All American Man has remained protected from
deterioration and vandalism. Few people venture to see the figure and experience
the beauty and history of this spectacular region of Utah. You may enjoy
this stunning petroglyph in my Ancient Rock Art
Fine Print Gallery.
