PROMOTING WILDLIFE CONSERVATION THROUGH ART AND SCIENCE IN THE BOLIVIAN AMAZON

Abstract

The Bolivian Amazon Forest hosts great biodiversity of flora, fauna, and ethnic cultures like the TCO Tacana II located in northern La Paz department. Previous research highlights economically important species like Brazil nuts and açaí palm, and threatened fauna like jaguars. However, the territory suffers severe habitat fragmentation from hydrocarbon exploitation and road construction, underscoring the need for innovative conservation activities involving local communities. The "Art with Science - Amazonia" project was developed in 2018 to promote Amazon wildlife conservation in Toromonas community (TCO Tacana II). Building on previous wildlife research, three artistic activities were organized with Toromonas School students: a theater workshop producing the play "Eyes of Nature", a mask-making workshop featuring Amazonian wildlife faces for the play, and a film workshop creating a short film acted and filmed by students. The play was presented to the entire community after the workshops, followed by the film two months later. Over 50% of school students participated in workshops, with 100% community attendance at presentations. Attendee testimonials confirmed the project's success in conveying conservation and wildlife coexistence messages. Structured surveys showed students acquired new skills like public speaking, camera use, and acting. This initiative demonstrates how integrating art and science can be a powerful tool for conservation and environmental education.