Kate McLean-Mackenzie, a researcher at the University of Kent, organizes “smell walks” in various cities. During these walks, participants focus solely on their sense of smell to observe their surroundings both near and far. McLean-Mackenzie believes that experiencing places through scent, not just sight, is essential for a holistic understanding.
Through her extensive work spanning 15 years, McLean-Mackenzie has studied and documented the scents of 40 different towns and cities worldwide for her upcoming book, “Atlas of Scents and Smells.”
She describes “smellscapes” as the olfactory counterparts to visual landscapes. These olfactory landscapes capture what one smells in a specific vicinity, akin to what one sees in their immediate surroundings.
For example, Antarctica’s smell is characterized by the aroma of dead seals and the industrial scent from the Rothera Research Station. In Kyiv, Ukraine, historical scents of pine forests, river, and seasonal transitions were prevalent during McLean-Mackenzie’s research visit.
McLean-Mackenzie emphasizes the importance of documenting these scents as they evolve with time and changing environments. She highlights the transient nature of smells, noting how Montreal’s smellscape transforms throughout the day, from natural morning scents to urban aromas as the day progresses.
Beyond mere identification and documentation, McLean-Mackenzie’s research delves into how scents evoke emotions and memories in individuals, making each place unique in its olfactory profile. She finds the emotional connections and complexity of smells captivating, driving her passion for this work.
When asked about her favorite scent, McLean-Mackenzie enthusiastically mentions the aroma of a garden shed, describing it as a blend of grass, creosote, warm asphalt, and wood. This passion for exploring scents and their emotional significance motivates her continued dedication to this field of research.