Artesanato paleontológico como fator de fortalecimento do turismo no Araripe Geoparque Mundial da UNESCO, Ceará, Brasil

Abstract

The present study aims to analyze the contribution of artisans residing in the territory of the UNESCO World Geopark Araripe, integrating the municipalities of Nova Olinda, Santana do Cariri, Crato, Juazeiro do Norte, Barbalha and Missão Velha, given the artisanal production of geoproducts, specifically paleontological representation. This work is based on the valorization of local know-how in all its multidisciplinary nature, taking into account the growth of tourist activity in the region and the inclusion of artisans in this process. The research adopts a qualitative approach, with a descriptive method, and uses a participatory research study to analyze the geoproducts produced by these artisans, through field visits to stores and production ateliers. To better understand tourism and the artisan's relationship with tourist activity, an exploratory bibliographic review was carried out. To this end, data collection took place through the application of a questionnaire and semi-structured interviews with artisans, aiming for a greater understanding of the reasons that led to the development of geoproducts, inspirations and their perspectives in relation to strengthening tourism, culture and heritage preservation. natural resources present in the region. The geoproducts are aimed at tourist sales aiming to represent local geodiversity. In short, this study aims to contribute to the understanding of the importance of geoproducts in strengthening tourism, highlighting the appreciation of natural heritage and other local wealth, promoting interaction between tourists and the local community.