Hi! I’m Xenia, or Kseniia, or xè

BIO


I’m an interdisciplinary researcher and practitioner working at the intersection of participatory design and more-than-human governance. I’m currently pursuing a PhD at Hasselt University in Belgium, where my research investigates new approaches to ecological democracy through the lens of critical design studies and environmental humanities.

With a background in visual and eco-social design, I’ve mostly worked on sociocultural projects: applying design research to questions of identity and language politics in border regions, co-creating participatory strategies for cultural initiatives, and facilitating public engagement in the reimagination of commons. In parallel, I maintain a strong ongoing interest in the roles of diasporas in academia and beyond.

Let’s stay in touch!

︎︎︎ Email
︎︎︎ LinkedIn
︎︎︎ ORCID
Hi! I’m Xenia, or Kseniia, or Xè

BIO


I’m an interdisciplinary researcher and practitioner working at the intersection of participatory design and more-than-human governance. I’m currently pursuing a PhD at Hasselt University in Belgium, where my research investigates new approaches to ecological democracy through the lens of critical design studies and environmental humanities.

With a background in visual and eco-social design, I’ve mostly worked on sociocultural projects: applying design research to questions of identity and language politics in border regions, co-creating participatory strategies for cultural initiatives, and facilitating public engagement in the reimagination of commons. In parallel, I maintain a strong ongoing interest in the roles of diasporas in academia and beyond.

Let’s stay in touch!

︎︎︎ Email
︎︎︎ LinkedIn
︎︎︎ ORCID


NEB OF THE MOUNTAINS

2022



Organisation: Free University of Bolzano-Bozen
Role: Organisational Assistant and Graphic Designer

︎︎︎ website
"NEB of the Mountains" is South Tyrol's response to the "New European Bauhaus" initiative launched by the European Commission, which aims to encourage creative projects in Europe that prioritise sustainability. Established in 2021 with support from local entities like Unibz, Eurac, and CasaClima Agency, NEB of the Mountains focuses on promoting sustainable development in mountainous regions. It brings together individuals from diverse fields to address contemporary societal challenges, with a shared commitment to fostering resilient and collaborative ways of living and producing.

During my time at the Faculty of Design and Arts at Unibz, I had the privilege of participating in the "New European Bauhaus of the Mountains." In this capacity, I assisted the organising team by creating a modern and engaging visual communication strategy aligned with their values. I also contributed to their submission for the NEB Lab, an official list proposed by the European Commission for successful NEB initiatives. Additionally, I aided in organising and setting up a conference for the Klimahouse 2022 fair, where we designed communication material and an open stage for speakers. As part of the NEB of the Mountains team, I delivered a proposal on behalf of the local group to adhere to the program as the NEB Festival’s official Side Event. In January 2023, I co-organised an open workshop to extend the initiative to other local organisations and partners. During this event, more than 100 people participated in round tables and exchanged their projects, as well as views on the program's values.

︎︎︎ photos above by Aart van Bezooijen





© Kseniia (xè) Obukhova 2025