The Scent & Culture Series: An Online Intensive Series on Methods of Olfactory Storytelling taught in collaboration with the Fragrance Alliance Network
I am excited to share a new collaboration between The Olfactory Contractor and The Fragrance Alliance Network: The Scent & Culture Series: An Intensive in Olfactory Storytelling. This three-part online course is designed for museum professionals, educators, artists, researchers, and others interested in understanding how scent can be used as a meaningful interpretive and storytelling tool within cultural contexts.
Each module in the series focuses on a different aspect of olfactory storytelling and olfactory museology. While the modules are designed to complement one another, they can be taken à la carte or as a complete series, depending on your interests and availability. Participants who wish to attend all three must register for each module individually.
We will still be teaching the Introduction to Olfactive Storytelling & Olfactory Museology crash course, for those who want a quicker introduction to the topic. See an in-depth description of all the courses offered below.
February 28, 2026 | 1:00–3:30 PM EST (Online)
Module 1 of The Scent & Culture Series: An Intensive in Olfactory Storytelling introduces the core theories and frameworks that underpin olfactory museology and olfactory storytelling. This session explores how scent shapes cultural understanding, interpretation, and heritage by examining the anthropology of the senses, the role of sensory awareness in deepening engagement, and the theoretical foundations of olfactory heritage.
March 7, 2026 | 1:00–3:30 PM EST (Online)
Module 2 of The Scent & Culture Series: An Intensive in Olfactory Storytelling focuses on the intentional integration of scent into exhibitions, educational programs, and public experiences within GLAM environments. Combining theory with practical application, this module examines how olfactory storytelling can enhance interpretation while addressing key considerations such as accessibility, cultural sensitivity, and risk management. Participants will explore different storytelling formats, scent diffusion methods, and event designs, gaining hands-on insight into olfactory event management and learning from real-world case studies to effectively engage diverse audiences.
March 14, 2026 | 1:00–3:30 PM EST (Online)
Module 3 explores how historically relevant scents—including material substances, smellscapes, and period perfumes—can be researched, recreated, and preserved as part of cultural heritage. Participants will learn how to identify and classify historical olfactory references and how to brief a historically related scent, often referred to as an “olfactory reproduction,” when collaborating with perfumers or olfactory heritage specialists—or when creating scents themselves. Please note that this course does not involve creating perfumes; instead, participants will learn the tools and methods needed to brief scent experts on developing historical scents, as well as explore experimental approaches for sourcing scents independently.
April 04, 2026 | 2:00–5:00 PM EST (Online)
In this stand alone, quick and immersive crash course, participants will gain a general understanding of how scent can be used as a powerful tool for cultural interpretation and public engagement. Through focused discussion and practical examples, the session explores how to thoughtfully integrate olfactory experiences into exhibitions, educational initiatives, and public programming. The course presents an introductory understanding to key theories, ethical considerations, and design strategies for creating meaningful multisensory visitor experiences in GLAM (Gallery, Library, Archive, and Museum) settings.
Flexible Participation
Each module in The Scent & Culture Series, as well as the standalone Olfactory Storytelling Crash Course, is designed as an independent learning experience, allowing participants to choose the sessions most relevant to their work or interests. For those seeking a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of olfactory storytelling—from theory and interpretation to historical scent research and sourcing—the full three-module series offers a cohesive and in-depth learning journey. The Olfactory Storytelling Crash Course provides a concise introduction to the field and is ideal for participants looking for a focused overview with a shorter time commitment.
Whether you are just beginning to explore olfactory storytelling or looking to deepen your existing practice, this series offers a structured, research-informed approach to working with scent in cultural and educational settings.
Please note that registration is required for each module individually, even if you plan to attend all courses.
Questions? Interested in Learning More?
Do not hesitate to reach out via my contact page if you have questions. Don’t forget to sign up for my newsletter to have olfactory storytelling tips and updates directly to your mailbox!
Interested in learning more? Check out my blog post on Recommended Smell Culture Resources to dive deeper into the world of olfactory museology and become familiar with more trailblazers of this field.
