Olfactory artist and perfumer Gabriel De Carvalho transforms the mythical odour of sanctity into a multi-sensory exhibition in London this November.
LONDON, UK — The Olfactory Art Studio presents The Smell of Sanctity: From Devotion to Decomposition, a challenging and innovative solo project by acclaimed perfumer and olfactory artist Gabriel De Carvalho, at 65a Charlotte Street, Fitzrovia, London W1T 4PJ, running from 26 to 30 November 2025. This immersive work explores the profound and often mysterious intersection of faith, chemistry, and human perception, translating the historical and mythical odour of sanctity—the miraculous, sweet fragrance said to emanate from saints—into a contemporary multi-sensory experience.
At its core, the installation is an intellectual investigation into the shared molecular space between the sacred and the scientific. De Carvalho, drawing on his dual expertise, revisits centuries-old theological accounts through the rigorous lens of biochemistry.
The artist examines how the very compounds found in organic breakdown are the same molecules that perfumers utilize to create transcendent beauty. This conceptual framework transforms belief systems into an exploration of olfactory science and aesthetics, revealing a physical connection where metaphysical interpretations once dominated.
The work utilizes bespoke scent compositions, sculptural diffusers, and light to guide visitors through a sensory journey that deliberately blurs the boundaries between sacred spaces and scientific laboratories. The artist highlights the "double life" of key aromatic molecules: indole, which exists in both jasmine and decomposition, and phenylethyl alcohol, which connects the scent of roses to bacterial cultures. By manipulating these compounds, the work challenges the audience to reflect on perception itself, how context and culture shape our judgement of what is sacred or profane, beautiful or repulsive.
Gabriel De Carvalho states: “This project uses the mythology of sanctity to reveal the chemistry behind emotion and belief. By showing how molecules of decay become the essence of beauty, I hope to shift how we think about scent, not as a luxury or a memory trigger, but as the most honest form of transformation.”
A spokesperson for The Olfactory Art Studio added: “The Smell of Sanctity continues our mission to elevate scent beyond commodity and luxury. This unique work demonstrates the capacity of olfactory art to tackle complex, transdisciplinary questions, making intangible concepts, like faith and perception, physically accessible to a London audience.”
The Olfactory Art Studio is dedicated to creating platforms for artists working at the critical intersection of perfumery and contemporary art. By commissioning bespoke and conceptual fragrances, the Studio encourages the public to engage with scent as a powerful artistic medium that activates memory, challenges perception, and unlocks new avenues for sensory exploration.
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For press enquiries, images, or interview requests, please contact: enquiries@theolfactoryartstudio.com https://www.theolfactoryartstudio.com/exhibitions/the-smell-of-sanctity.php
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