Joana Rafael is an architect and researcher working on ecological issues related to pollution and contamination in buildings and territories, with a particular interest in the material conditions of construction and environmental contamination. Her research investigates the materiality and limits of physical infrastructures in relation to Earth systems, as well as human–nature relations mediated by dynamics of human impact, with particular attention to radiological contamination. In parallel, she develops a practice of collaboration with artists, research and writing, as well as consultancy on projects in the fields of architecture, art, and ecology. Joana has taught courses related to Contemporary Culture at institutions including ESAP, ISCE Douro, Central Saint Martins, and the University for the Creative Arts. She is a member of CEGOT and CEAA, and co-founder of REFINERY BOARD. Joana holds a Master’s degree in Architecture and Urban Culture from Metropolis, as well as a Master’s in Research Architecture and a PhD in Visual Culture from Goldsmiths, University of London. She also obtained a specialization certificate in Healthier Materials and Sustainable Construction from Parsons School of Design. She is currently completing a Master’s in Visual Arts Education. Alongside her academic work, Joana is a farmer.
The Nuclear in The Ural Montains
Territorial Tensions between Humans and Atoms
Presented at XXXIATNEUXX, Porto, Portugal
< published > in portuguese as O Nuclear nos Montes Urais: Tensōes Territoriais entre Humanos e Átomos
at Curadoria de Enigmas Territoriais de Ines Moreira, Parabola Critica Porto, 2022
The paper explores the impact of deadly emissions from Soviet nuclear facilities on a place that has undergone a series of conversions, from natural refuge to military headquarters, to nature reserve and touristic destination. This article sheds light on the interconnectedness of all life forms and the vulnerabilities of infrastructures, putting supposedly safe people at risk.
