Traditions Associated With Painting Cairns
When it comes to painting cairns, there are plenty of creative ways to get the job done. You could use a stencil or paint your own design on a rock, for example. Then, place the rocks on a base that’s either sturdy or soft to make sure it stays put and doesn’t fall off. This makes it easy for kids to take part in the project, too!
Our ancestors first experimented with cairn-building by stacking stones on top of each other. These simple structures became a navigational tool for hikers in the Himalayas, marker posts on Norway’s jagged fjords, and even trail markers for sled dogs in Alaska. Our ancestors also used cairns to mark burial sites in graveyards, and in Tibet and Mongolia, they were used for ceremonial purposes. In more modern times, cairns have been erected as memorials and landmarks, and have served as trail guides in the national parks of the United States.
The painting cairns that are part of the Bates Cairns trail in Acadia National Park are a specific type of unique stone stack that’s designed as a memorial and was built by a man named Waldron Bates to mark trails in the park. While you may see TikTok videos and online hiking forums that suggest kicking over these structures, the National Park Service recommends leaving them alone and simply enjoying their meditative presence in nature.
Every park, wilderness area, and wild space has its own rules about cairns. It’s best to check out the website of a park or call a ranger’s office to find out more before you start building. For example, in some national parks, it’s against the law to build cairns or add to existing ones. In fact, it’s a crime to destroy a Bates cairn and is considered vandalism, according to park officials.
Cultural Traditions Associated With Painting Cairns
Locals love the craggy beauty of a cairn, but they also know that these structures can be very dangerous when storms roll in. Some cairns are prone to falling over, and this can create dangerous situations for visitors. Others are made of fragile materials, such as granite, and can be easily dislodged by a strong wind.
If you’re planning to repaint your home, a cairn-inspired color scheme can be both stylish and practical. Choosing darker tones can make a room feel cosy and inviting. Plus, it will help you sleep better because the darkness can block out bright sunlight.
Cairns boasts a thriving art scene, and the city’s independent galleries offer a wide selection of thought-provoking artwork. You can discover the stories of Dreamtime at Doongal Aboriginal Art, where artist-owner Munganbana uses traditional Aboriginal themes and techniques to showcase his Jirrbal heritage from the Atherton Tablelands, or admire works that celebrate Torres Strait culture at ethically curated art galleries throughout Tropical North Queensland. Alternatively, visit the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair in July and meet artists alongside their displayed works.
