what is this?

C2YS is a project which explores the phenomenon of sense-memories, in particular how our sense of smell is our most emotionally evocative. Through this framework, I have been experimenting with ways in which we might be able to visualise this feeling with animations. I then began thinking about which sounds may represent particular smells and realised that the sound element of this outcome would and should be as essential as the visual. I reached out to seven UK based music artists who created a sound for their chosen smell.

What is interesting is that I gave them only the smell to work with, no visual elements, as I wanted to see what they might create with no other subconscious influences as colour and sound is a more common link. The outcome is a series of seven animations, all unique in their visual and audio style, which aim to represent the feeling of their associated smell memories.

I also created a short podcast series to run alongside these animations and give context to each of the music artists. I speak with each music artist on a wide range of topics; such as sensory interconnections, the spiritual act of creating and how to create art which lasts. I found these conversations extremely thought-provoking, it was refreshing to talk to creatives in different fields which had similar cross-overs.