Reading Visual Investigations delves into a new discipline—visual investigations—in which architecture intersects with advocacy, journalism, and law in the pursuit of justice and accountability.

The book presents insights into the current discourse within this emergent field, illustrated by intriguing case studies from around the world, highlighting the role of architecture as a key area of expertise that defines this evolving practice. Eight experts from the fields of digital and spatial analysis, human rights, legal studies, investigative journalism, and forensic analysis offer critical, scientifically grounded discourse on the topic through essays and interviews. The book’s contributors examine a range of methods and architectural tools employed in visual investigations and their impact on human rights and legal processes.

Additionally, the investigators and the editors provide an in-depth analysis of international research by introducing seven case studies and presenting their methods, content and conclusions in diverse formats, including maps, films, models and interactive platforms used to expose human rights violations.

Reading Visual Investigations is an essential resource for anyone interested in understanding the dynamic and evolving practice of visual investigations. It provides practical insights that integrate traditional reporting with digital forensics and the analysis of visual evidence. The book strives to bridge the gap between architectural expertise and the urgent need for effective advocacy and accountability mechanisms in contemporary society.

Edited by Lisa Luksch and Andres Lepik

With Contributions by Bellingcat, Ralf Breker (Bayerisches Landeskriminalamt), The Center for Spatial Technologies (CST), Sam Dubberley (Human Rights Watch), Bora Erden (New York Times), Sam Gregory (Witness), Alison Killing (Financial Times), Laura Kurgan (Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture, GSAPP, Andres Lepik (Technische Universität München, TU), Lisa Luksch (Technische Universität München, TU), Anjli Parrin (University of Chicago Law School), SITU Research, Patrick Brian Smith (Counter Evidentiary Network), and Lea Weinmann (Süddeutsche Zeitung)

ANDRES LEPIK is the director of the TUM Architecture Museum in Munich and a professor of architectural history and curatorial practice there. After studying art history and completing his dissertation on Renaissance architectural models, he worked as a curator at the Neue Nationalgalerie in Berlin and in the Architecture and Design Department of The Museum of Modern Art, New York. LISA LUKSCH is a curator at the TUM Architecture Museum in Munich and a research assistant at the Chair of Architectural History and Curatorial Practice there. She studied architecture at the TUM and the University of Antwerp and is a co-curator of the exhibition Building to Heal: New Architecture for Hospitals (2023).