Writer-in-Residence Larisa Faber Explores Food Politics and Migration at SSEES Library

SSEES Library is pleased to welcome Larisa Faber, writer-in-residence for UCL's European Institute's European Literary Map of London project. Born in the year of the Chernobyl disaster and having witnessed the transition from empty shelves in her home country to the abundance of Western European supermarkets, Larisa brings a unique perspective to her work.

During her residency, Larisa will be working on a project that explores the intersection of food politics, migration, and Eastern European seasonal vegetable pickers in Western Europe. Her proposed work, a tongue-in-cheek epic recipe told from the perspective of asparagus, will explore the lives of the often invisible workers who ensure the abundance of produce on our supermarket shelves. This project will contribute to the European Literary Map of London, which aims to showcase the diverse perspectives and experiences of European writers in the city.

Larisa's project aims to highlight the stark contrast between the luxurious dining experiences in places like London's South Kensington and the realities faced by the migrant workers who make such experiences possible. Through her creative exploration of this topic, Larisa hopes to contribute to the broader conversation about food politics and the treatment of migrant workers in the agricultural sector.

During her time at SSEES Library, Larisa will have access to our extensive collections of books, journals, and archival materials related to Eastern European history, culture, and society. Our specialist Area Liaison Librarians, who have expertise in various Eastern European languages and subject areas, will be available to support Larisa's research and provide guidance on navigating our unique collections.

SSEES Library is committed to supporting research and creative work that engages with the complex realities of Eastern European communities and their experiences both in their home countries and as migrants abroad. We have already shared our collections with Larisa and now look forward to seeing how her research, unique voice and perspective will contribute to this important discourse and enrich the European Literary Map of London.