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.
U
“U” is an artistic creation project developed in close dialogue with the community of the mining village of Urgeiriça, focusing on the history of uranium extraction in Portugal and its social, environmental, and human repercussions. Based on an interdisciplinary research process, the project seeks to shed light on the historical and ongoing impacts of mining, including its effects on the living conditions of local populations and the collective memory of the territory.
The artistic work pays tribute to the mining communities, recognising their experience, resilience, and contribution to the country’s industrial and social history. The piece was realised in ceramics by Isabel Carvalho and subsequently donated to the Association of Former Urgeiriça Workers (ATMU) for inclusion in the proposed Urgeiriça Mining Museum, accompanied by a poster with text authored by Joana Rafael and designed by Luísa Martelo.
