Afield

A.field is a pioneering design research practice based in Montréal, specializing in addressing contemporary global challenges through a blend of design and social science methodologies. Co-directed by Kai Wood Mah and Patrick Lynn Rivers, A.field employs interdisciplinary approaches to investigate critical issues such as structural racism, postcolonialism, and migration economies. Their projects are diverse, ranging from assessing early childhood development infrastructure in South Africa to conducting design ethnographies that critique migration practices in Québec.

A.field emphasizes a 'research-creation' methodology, merging artistic innovation with scholarly inquiry to enhance societal understanding and promote social change. Their dedication to collaborative practices fosters learning communities that encourage the exchange of ideas and highlight diverse perspectives. A.field’s engagements have garnered support from esteemed organizations like the Connaught Fund and the SSHRC, with outputs that intersect design and academic scholarship. Fluent in multiple languages, the team actively seeks to redefine conventional design practices, inviting audiences to envision alternative futures through their work.