Study of Palaeoart of the world: A quest for understanding the evolution of human constructs of reality is a volume in honour of Professor Robert G. Bednarik, Convener, International Federation of Rock Art Organisations (IFRAO). It is to felicitate him on his birthday on 6th April 2024 when he is turning 80. The volume consists of 28 articles by 25 experienced scholars most of whom have worked with Robert. The articles have been presented in two parts. Part I comprises 11 articles highlighting the personality, contributions, and achievements of Robert G. Bednarik in the field of Palaeoart research and sweet memories of working with him by different scholars from all over the world. Part II contains 17 articles by veteran scholars who are highly knowledgeable and experts in their field of research. The areas covered are rock art research, the cognitive and cultural development of humans, the development of the brain, cognitive capabilities, language, different aspects of the cultures of humans and their reflections in rock art, Stone Age art and communication design, scientific dating and other areas of rock art science such as protection, conservation, and management of rock art heritage sites, etc. The articles echo the life-long experiences and in-depth study of the subjects in Palaeoart by the scholars from different parts of the world.

The papers in this volume reflect the dedication and deep involvement of the scholars for understanding the development of cultural landscape and human behaviour as an integral part of the nature through Palaeoart. The volume is like a nectar of the experiences and learnings of highly experienced scholars. Going through it takes the reader to different horizons of understanding the concepts of reality in the journey of human evolution. The volume highlights the expeditions of the scientific research and development made in the discipline of research during the last four and half decades. The vision and mission presented in this volume are going to give a new direction and energy to Palaeoart research in the world.

Prof. Robert G. Bednarik from Australia is an inspiration to many scholars working on the scientific study of Palaeoart and allied disciplines in all the continents of the world except Antarctica. He is highly respected and loved by scholars of all ages, having immensely contributed to establishing the rock art discipline on a scientific footing and securing its steady growth.