Z.D. Skoula^{1, 2} & C. Fassoulas^{1, 3
1}Psiloritis Natural Park, Anogia, 74051, Rethimno, Crete, Greece
²Dept of Applied Mathematics, University of Crete, Heraklion, 71409, Crete, Greece
³Natural History Museum of Crete, University of Crete, Heraklion, 71409, Crete, Greece

Keywords: Participative processes, economic value of goods, geoparks, local artists, trade-marking

In the region of Mount Psiloritis exists a wide number of artists and craftsmen who deal mainly with the architecture of stone, the weaving of textiles, the production of pottery and the sculpturing of stone and wood. Their work has thus some particular characteristics easily understood. However, these follow traditional forms and are strictly produced with the corresponding techniques. Adaptations using modern technology and materials should develop and certainly consider the optimal balance between the particular characteristics of Psiloritis and the way they should be expressed through the prism of modern reality. Artists and craftsmen from other European Geoparks have successfully combined their work with the modern marketing policies and the needs of their Parks. Psiloritis Natural Park considers very important a strong relationship between its management body and the local craftsmen and artists, having in mind to support their work through the promotion of its geotouristic activities. Based on the aforementioned frame, a seminar took place in Margarites of the Geropotamos Municipality for the use of modern materials and the handing and promoting of products through the Geopark's initiatives. The Park invited artists and craftsmen from Germany, France and Psiloritis area to exchange ideas and practices between them and to increase the bounds between the management body of the Park and the local artists and craftsmen. These can become tighter by trade marking certain designs-characteristic patterns from the Psiloritis environment and its culture, which may be used in decorative or utilitarian ornaments, commemorative goods from stone or wood, furniture, children's toys, clothes etc. these would certainly give stimulus for new economic activities in the region of the Park.