1925 GLEN NORAH is an olfactory practice that captures past cultural and artistic movements through scent. Fragrances reflect the spirit of times, referencing artistic contributions that shaped cultural landscapes.
The 1925 GLEN NORAH method of scent-making is as rich and layered as the fragrances themselves, blending in-depth cultural research with an understanding of artistic influence and olfactory science.
1
Research
The initial stage involves comprehensive research into cultural movements and their creative outputs. The first collection, for example, is centered around Zimbabwe’s liberation era, a time rich in various forms of creative expression including “Chimurenga music.”
2
Identify
Key works across different creative fields are then identified. In the first collection, the focus is on pieces by Miles Davis, James Baldwin, and Bob Marley.
Identify
Key works across different creative fields are then identified. In the first collection, the focus is on pieces by Miles Davis, James Baldwin, and Bob Marley.
2
3
Exploration
Each selected work is examined, understanding its background and the creator’s circumstances during its inception. For instance, “18 Rue de Tournon” eau de parfum draws inspiration from James Baldwin’s experiences in Paris, especially his time at Café Le Tournon, a gathering place for black thinkers and creators.
Foundation Interpretation
In this step, scent notes that embody the emotional and cultural essence of the period and the selected works are chosen. These notes form the foundation of the collection, unifying it as a cohesive body of work. For example, the incorporation of woody notes in all fragrances reflects the land of Zimbabwe, central to the conflict.
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4
Foundation Interpretation
In this step, scent notes that embody the emotional and cultural essence of the period and the selected works are chosen. These notes form the foundation of the collection, unifying it as a cohesive body of work. For example, the incorporation of woody notes in all fragrances reflects the land of Zimbabwe, central to the conflict.
5
Individual Contribution Interpretation
Individual contributions are translated into specific fragrance notes. For instance, “18 Rue de Tournon” combines top notes of honey, mango, and pineapple with a heart of tobacco and a base of musk, capturing the ambiance of Baldwin’s time in Paris and the connection to Zimbabwe through notes like tobacco.