I forwarded your message to several people involved in rock art and Latin American conservation. Here are their responses.
Susan
Ben Brown (INAH-Juarez, Mexico):
“Jane has given rock art conservation courses all over the world as is a specialist permanently “on call” to the NPS for emergency advice. Likewise, Marglyph has worked throughout the Southwest as well as places like Sweden and Finland. She is local chair for the May meeting of the American Rock Art Research Association in Las Cruces.
That said, and recognizing that I don’t know the local situation, I’d initially argue for an “in situ” solution rather than a removal to preserve. There are too many risks.”
Ben
Jane Kolber:
“My first question would be “Why must it be removed?” as removal will most likely destroy it.
Then I suggest contacting:
Daniel Castillo Benitez – an archaeologist in Peru who works with rock-art.
Johannes Loubser – a rock-art conservator.
Another possibility would be for the person in Santa Fe [New Mexico] to search out the methods used to remove the Kiva murals. Or the Egyptian tomb paintings.
But still “Why must they be removed?”
Jane”
M K BERRIER
“I totally agree with Jane.
Removal is very very tricky and would probably damage the rock art.
Chances are it has already been hanging on for ages.
Don’t do it yourself! Find an expert.
But I agree – “Why must they be removed”
m”