[Applied] Foreign Affairs

[Applied] Foreign Affairs is a trans-disciplinary lab investigating spatial, infrastructural, environmental and cultural phenomena in rural and urban Sub-Saharan Africa, and the Middle East, established by Baerbel Mueller in 2011.
 
Each lab project centers on a distinct question or clear mission and culminates in field trips and residencies through which (applied) research, mappings, rural and urban growth patterns, urban prototypes, imaginary (art) spaces, and relational physical interventions are produced. A series of talks introduces students to the spatial diversity and cultural vibrancy of the contemporary condition of the respective project context, followed by “intensives” that focus on the status and potential of a specific region and interest. The process of relating and making is conceptualized in a reactive and slowed-down manner. Conditions of uncertainty and fragility are embraced. The outcome of each lab is presented in different formats and contexts.
 
[A]FA is performed in (experimental) collaboration with international guests, partners, and partner universities. [A]FA is commissioned by cultural institutions, artist collectives, communities, municipalities, and individuals. A selected number of students from both, DieAngewandte, I oA, and the respective project context can participate after application. Field work and residencies take place during semester breaks. Students of related disciplines are most welcome.