University of Kent researcher Kate McLean-Mackenzie leads “smell walks” in various cities. During these olfactory expeditions, participants rely solely on their sense of smell to perceive their surroundings. McLean-Mackenzie emphasizes the importance of experiencing places not just visually, but also through the sense of smell.
Through her extensive research spanning 15 years, McLean-Mackenzie has documented and analyzed the scents of 40 towns and cities worldwide for her forthcoming book, “Atlas of Scents and Smells.”
She describes “smellscapes” as the olfactory equivalent of visual landscapes, mapping out the data collected during smell walks to depict the sensory experiences unique to each location. These scents provide a distinct identity to a place, capturing its essence and history.
McLean-Mackenzie illustrates this concept with examples such as Antarctica, where the scent of dead seals and machinery at the Rothera Research Station characterizes the environment. In Kyiv, Ukraine, the blend of pine forests, rivers, and seasonal nuances created a distinctive aroma before the city’s transformation due to geopolitical events.
The ephemeral nature of scents is highlighted as McLean-Mackenzie recounts the changing smellscape of Montreal at different times of the day. She emphasizes the subjective nature of scent perception, acknowledging that individual experiences may vary, but shared olfactory moments create a unique sense of connection.
Beyond documenting scents, McLean-Mackenzie’s work delves into the emotional impact of smells on individuals. She believes that each scent carries a story, evoking specific memories and emotions. This exploration of the intricate complexities of smells and their associations with personal experiences drives her passion for this research.
When asked about her favorite scent, McLean-Mackenzie expresses a fondness for the aroma of a garden shed, citing its diverse mix of scents that evoke a sense of nostalgia and tranquility. Her dedication to capturing the essence of places through their scents reflects her belief in the significance of preserving these sensory memories.
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