Maria Gruzdeva is a Russian-born photographer based in London. Being physically away from her country of origin for the past few years, she is able to offer a unique perspective on processes taking place there, investigating into Russia’s post-Soviet conscientiousness, identity and aesthetics. She draws inspiration from the prominent Western artists and art theory, however issues connecting her native country’s past and present remain central to her work. She usually works on long-term documentary projects, underpinned by extensive research. She is a recipient of the annual Joss Turley award, Ideastap & Magnum Photos Photographic Award, winner of the Magenta Flash Forward Emerging Photographer 2012, FFWY2012 and other competitions. Her work has been exhibited internationally, with group and solo shows in Russia, UK, France, Switzerland, Belgium and Malaysia. It was also featured in a number of photographic festivals, including Les Rencontres d’Arles and Bristol Photo Forum.