University of Kent researcher, Kate McLean-Mackenzie, leads expeditions known as “smell walks” in various cities. During these walks, participants are encouraged to focus solely on their sense of smell to perceive their surroundings from a new perspective. McLean-Mackenzie believes that experiencing places through scent, in addition to sight, offers a unique way to appreciate different environments.
Over the past 15 years, McLean-Mackenzie has meticulously studied and documented the scents of 40 towns and cities worldwide for her forthcoming book, “Atlas of Scents and Smells.” She defines a “smellscape” as the olfactory counterpart to a visual landscape, illustrating what one can detect in a particular vicinity.
The researcher emphasizes the ever-changing nature of smells, citing examples such as the distinct aroma of Antarctica, a mixture of dead seal and the machinery used at the Rothera Research Station. Her exploration of Kyiv, Ukraine, years ago captured a blend of historical scents like pine forests and river essences, which she acknowledges may have altered post-events like Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, highlighting the importance of preserving these scentscapes.
Throughout her research, McLean-Mackenzie observed how scents vary throughout a day in Montreal, from early morning tree fragrances to the later emergence of urban scents like coffee and baked goods. She recognizes that scent perception is subjective, but when participants share similar olfactory experiences, it fosters a deeper connection among them.
In addition to documenting scents, McLean-Mackenzie’s work also delves into how scents evoke emotions and memories, underscoring the complexity and individuality of each smellscape. Her passion for this field stems from the captivating narratives and emotional attachments people have to specific scents. When asked about her favorite scent, she promptly mentioned the aroma of a garden shed, describing it as a unique blend of grass, wood, and warmth that holds special significance for her.
