IN-PERSON London Heritages. Section B

Abstract

In Search of the Desert Truffle is a transdisciplinary research project under VCUarts Qatar’s (IN)>Tangible Lab, exploring Qatar’s Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) and Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) through the desert truffle (faqaa). This elusive fungus, thriving in arid landscapes, forms a symbiotic relationship with Helianthemum plants and depends on specific environmental conditions, including rainfall patterns potentially influenced by thunder and lightning. Bridging design, ecology, and heritage, the project employs embodied knowledge, immersive expeditions, foraging re-enactments, and cooking experiments to engage students and the community with ICH and TEK. Research activities include documenting myths, traditions, and culinary practices, conducting Qatari desert expeditions in 2025, visiting local farms attempting to cultivate truffles, and experimenting with truffle-based cuisine. Collaborating with undergraduate researchers, ecologists, filmmakers, sound artists, and local experts, the project monitors climate patterns, documents seasonal changes, and tracks the growth of truffle-associated plants. Beyond ecology, the project safeguards local linguistic and cultural practices, reinforcing the connection between language, food, and heritage. Engaging in both Arabic and English, it contributes to sustainable heritage futures, ensuring the preservation and activation of Qatar’s ICH and TEK. This initiative also positions the (IN)>Tangible Lab to strengthen our role in cultural and ecological conservation.