The Whale is a proud partner in the research and development project "From Fenais to Fenais," a collaboration between the Carlos Machado Museum in the Azores, the University of Tromsø (UiT), The Whale AS, the Húsavík Whale Museum, and the Stefansson Arctic Institute in Iceland. Supported by EEA Grants, the project began with its kickoff meeting in the Azores in March 2022 and continued until November 2024.
Restoration and revitalization of cultural heritage
The primary goal of the project was to restore and revitalize cultural heritage along a coastal area in the northern part of São Miguel Island in the Azores. Two historic buildings were renovated and given new purposes to serve the local community. One building was transformed into a knowledge center and whaling museum, while the other became a center for food culture and heritage. These venues have engaged the local population, stimulated the local economy, and generated new jobs in the region.
The Whale's role in the project
The Whale actively contributed by participating in a project group that explored the role of museums in promoting culture and social change in communities. Camilla Ilmoni from The Whale took part in the working group, providing insights drawn from The Whale’s experience with community engagement and communication. Through its prior work involving the local community in Andøy, The Whale demonstrated how cultural projects can foster engagement and identity within local communities.
Results and future publication
The project concluded in November 2024 with promising outcomes. The two restored buildings now serve as vibrant hubs for workshops, seminars, and events that strengthen the local community. The final results of the project will be detailed in a comprehensive report to be published in April 2025.
Learn more about the project here:
From Fenais to Fenais – Matrix Culture of Local Development
The Whale is part of the reference group for the Marma-detox project, led by Dr. Anders Goksøyr at the University of Bergen. The project focuses on understanding how environmental toxins affect large marine mammals, which play a critical role as top predators in marine ecosystems. The research is closely aligned with the goals of the UN Decade of Ocean Science and is essential for monitoring and reducing the impact of pollution on marine mammals and the broader environment.
The Whale is also part of the research project "Our Own Moby Dick," led by Professor Audun Rikardsen at UiT, The Arctic University of Norway. The iconic sperm whale, a major draw for whale tourism and found in large numbers along the continental shelf off Northern Norway and Svalbard year-round, is vulnerable to human impacts. We aim to leverage new technology to deepen understanding of sperm whales and other species, addressing challenges and establishing a knowledge-based foundation for a sustainable and attractive whale tourism industry.
