“The article delves into the connection between faith, chemistry, and decay through an olfactory journey titled ‘The Smell of Sanctity’.”

London, UK – The Olfactory Art Studio is proud to present The Smell of Sanctity: From Devotion to Decomposition, a thought-provoking and innovative solo exhibition by renowned perfumer and olfactory artist Gabriel De Carvalho. The exhibition will take place from 26 to 30 November 2025 at 65a Charlotte Street, Fitzrovia, London W1T 4PJ.

De Carvalho’s immersive exhibition explores the intersection of faith, chemistry, and human perception by translating the historical and mythical odour of sanctity into a contemporary multi-sensory experience. This concept challenges the audience to reflect on perception itself and how context and culture shape our judgement of what is sacred or profane, beautiful or repulsive.

The exhibition delves into the shared molecular space between the sacred and the scientific, as De Carvalho, drawing on his dual expertise, revisits centuries-old theological accounts through the rigorous lens of biochemistry. By examining the compounds found in organic breakdown and how they are also used by perfumers to create transcendent beauty, De Carvalho highlights the “double life” of key aromatic molecules. For example, indole, which exists in both jasmine and decomposition, and phenylethyl alcohol, which connects the scent of roses to bacterial cultures. Through these manipulations, the exhibition challenges the audience to rethink scent as not just a luxury or memory trigger, but as the most honest form of transformation.

De Carvalho explains, “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 adds, “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.

For press enquiries, images, or interview requests, please contact: enquiries@theolfactoryartstudio.com or visit the exhibition’s website at https://www.theolfactoryartstudio.com/exhibitions/the-smell-of-sanctity.php.