University of Kent researcher, Kate McLean-Mackenzie, leads “smell walks” in various cities. During these walks, participants rely solely on their sense of smell to experience their surroundings, focusing on both distant and nearby scents. McLean-Mackenzie emphasizes the importance of engaging all senses, not just sight, to fully appreciate different locations.
Having dedicated 15 years to studying and documenting the smells of 40 towns and cities worldwide, McLean-Mackenzie is compiling her findings into a forthcoming book titled “Atlas of Scents and Smells.”
She elaborates on the concept of “smellscapes,” describing them as the olfactory equivalent of visual landscapes. These scent maps are created based on data collected during smell walks, reflecting what one can smell in a particular environment.
The dynamic nature of scents is highlighted through examples like Antarctica’s aroma of dead seal and machinery at the Rothera Research Station, contrasting with Kyiv’s historical blend of pine forests, rivers, and seasonal nuances. McLean-Mackenzie stresses the importance of documenting these scent profiles as cities evolve over time, leading to changes in their smellscapes.
The ephemeral quality of scents is further explored through McLean-Mackenzie’s experiences in Montreal, where the morning air transitions from natural scents to urban aromas as the day progresses. She acknowledges the subjectivity of scent perception but emphasizes the unifying experience when participants agree on specific scents during their walks.
Beyond mere documentation, McLean-Mackenzie’s work aims to capture the emotional impact of scents on individuals. She finds fulfillment in the stories and memories associated with different smells, underscoring the complexity and uniqueness of each smellscape. When asked about her favorite scent, she fondly describes the rich aroma of a garden shed, citing its diverse blend of scents that evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth.