University of Kent researcher Kate McLean-Mackenzie leads exploratory “smell walks” in various cities. During these walks, participants rely solely on their sense of smell to gather information about their surroundings. McLean-Mackenzie believes that experiencing places through our noses, not just our eyes, is essential. She asserts that this unique perspective can alter one’s perception of locations, prompting individuals to slow down and view them in a new light.
Over the past 15 years, McLean-Mackenzie has meticulously documented and studied the scents of 40 towns and cities worldwide for her upcoming publication, “Atlas of Scents and Smells.”
She introduces the concept of “smellscapes,” which she constructs using data collected during smell walks in various global locations. A smellscape, according to her, is akin to a visual landscape but for the sense of smell. It encompasses the olfactory experiences within one’s immediate surroundings.
For instance, McLean-Mackenzie describes the distinct smells of Antarctica and Kyiv, Ukraine. She notes how the scents of these places can evolve over time due to external factors such as environmental changes or human activities.
McLean-Mackenzie emphasizes the transient nature of scents and how they can evoke emotions and memories. She highlights the importance of documenting these scents to preserve a record of how cities smelled at different points in time.
Beyond the scientific aspect, McLean-Mackenzie believes that the emotional stories attached to scents are equally valuable. She finds joy in exploring the complexity of smells and the unique experiences they evoke in individuals.
When asked about her favorite scent, McLean-Mackenzie enthusiastically mentions the aroma of a garden shed, describing it as a harmonious blend of cut grass, creosote, asphalt warmth, and wooden essence.
McLean-Mackenzie’s work goes beyond just identifying and categorizing scents; it aims to capture the emotional and sensory impact of scents on people, making it a meaningful endeavor for her after years of research.