Battiss, Walter (1906-1982), was a South African painter who was strongly influenced by the primitive art of his country, especially rock painting. During the 1930's, Battiss was among the first South Africans to recognize the artistic importance of the rock art of southern Africa. He wrote several books on rock art and incorporated the forms of rock art into his own paintings. Battiss's colorful style combined primitive forms with the influence of modern European artists. Battiss painted in oils but also created significant graphic art, drawings, and water colors.