Caitlin Love

Imparting cultural knowledge across generations in a narrative-style cookbook

My project was motivated by a desire to reconnect with my Ukrainian heritage, guided by the notion that cultural continuation is rooted in transmitting knowledge, values, and traditions between generations, highlighting a tenuous link between the past and present. The concept of ancestral foodways has been explored by implementing family recipes, photographs, and histories within a narrative-style cookbook.

Smachno is tied to the unique experiences of previous generations, exploring themes of cultural identity, family, and ancestral wisdom using recipes as a conduit to weave narratives together. The tactile craftsmanship of the exposed Coptic binding was heavily influenced by the skilful nature of Ukrainian embroidery (vyshyvka)  and deeper meaning encoded within the pattern and motifs, symbolic of pysanky (wax-painted Easter eggs). The cover has been adorned with copper metallic foiling, evoking a magical quality reminiscent of ancient Ukrainian manuscripts.

The most demanding yet rewarding aspect of this project involved translating complex themes of culture, heritage, and recipes into a single artifact, requiring a reflective approach that encouraged me to embrace my Ukrainian roots. Smachno has evolved beyond the commercial cookbook, serving as a living record of my family’s history that will ensure the continuation of Ukrainian customs, traditions, and food into the lives of future generations.