University of Kent researcher Kate McLean-Mackenzie conducts “smell walks” in various cities, where participants rely solely on their sense of smell to perceive their surroundings. Emphasizing the importance of experiencing places not only visually but also through olfaction, McLean-Mackenzie believes that smelling a location can offer a unique perspective and a deeper appreciation of its essence.
Over the past 15 years, McLean-Mackenzie has meticulously documented the scents of 40 towns and cities worldwide for her upcoming book, “Atlas of Scents and Smells.” She describes the concept of a “smellscape” as the olfactory equivalent of a visual landscape, encompassing the array of scents present in a specific area.
In her research, McLean-Mackenzie highlights the evolving nature of smellscapes, noting how scents can change over time due to various factors such as societal shifts and industrial developments. By preserving these scent records, she aims to capture the essence of places as they once were, acknowledging that scents hold valuable memories and emotions.
Through her work, McLean-Mackenzie not only catalogues the diverse aromas of urban environments but also delves into how these scents evoke emotions and memories in people. She emphasizes the significance of these scent experiences, underscoring the intricate and multifaceted nature of smellscapes that offer a nuanced understanding of a location’s character.