2023 Art and Olfaction Awards

The 2023 Art and Olfaction Awards: Celebrating Fragrance Excellence



Welcome to an extraordinary celebration of scent! The 2023 Art and Olfaction Awards recently took place at the magnificent Cicada club in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, drawing fragrance enthusiasts and inquisitive minds from all walks of life.

Nestled in the historic Art Deco Oviatt Building, the Cicada club is a renowned venue that offers a captivating immersion into the opulence and allure of the 1920s and 1930s. With its grand staircase, exquisite chandeliers, and luxurious furnishings, the club exudes the charm and sophistication reminiscent of Hollywood's golden age, transporting visitors back in time to an era of speakeasies and swing music.





The Cicada club stands as a nostalgic tribute to the Roaring Twenties, providing a delightful escape for those seeking elegance in the heart of downtown Los Angeles.

The 2023 Art and Olfaction Awards brought together visionaries, creators, and fragrance enthusiasts to honor the art of perfumery. This enchanting event took attendees on a fragrant journey through captivating scents, captivating their senses and stimulating their curiosity.




Imagine immersing yourself in a world where fragrances take center stage, where the air is filled with aromatic wonders from around the globe. Organized by the esteemed Institute of Art and Olfaction, the Art and Olfaction Awards showcased the creativity and mastery of perfumers who continuously push boundaries and create olfactory experiences that captivate us.

At this magical evening in Downtown LA, perfumers, industry professionals, and fragrance enthusiasts gathered to celebrate the crème de la crème of the perfume world. The event was a magnificent fusion of creativity, artistry, and passion, buzzing with excitement as attendees eagerly awaited the announcement of the winners.

Lucky to be seated right next to Benjamin Espesito who's creation Voices was awarded Winner in the Artisan category, more on that scent in an upcoming post!


The Art and Olfaction Awards featured a diverse range of categories that recognized outstanding fragrances and the talented individuals behind them. From independent perfumery to artisanal creations, the awards showcased the vast talent and depth of the industry. Categories like "Artisan" and "Independent" highlighted the exceptional work of smaller, independent perfumers, while "Experimental" honored those who fearlessly ventured into uncharted olfactory territories.

Beyond acknowledging past achievements, the 2023 Art and Olfaction Awards embraced the future of perfumery. The "Sadakichi Award for Experimental Work with Scent" recognized visionaries who utilized fragrance as an artistic medium, challenging our perceptions and expanding the boundaries of olfactory experiences. This forward-thinking category perfectly captured the event's innovative spirit, inspiring a sense of curiosity and wonder among attendees.



But the Art and Olfaction Awards were only the beginning of a scent-filled extravaganza. The event marked the commencement of Scent Week Los Angeles 2023, a week-long celebration of scent culture, exploration, and education. This immersive experience offered workshops, exhibitions, and interactive activities that delved deeper into the fascinating world of fragrance. Scent Week Los Angeles provided fragrance enthusiasts, professionals, and anyone with a curious nose an unmissable opportunity to indulge in the wonders of scent.



The Institute of Art and Olfaction, the driving force behind the Art and Olfaction Awards, is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the art and science of perfumery. Established in 2012, the Institute is committed to elevating scent as a medium for artistic expression and challenging traditional notions of perfume and fragrance.

If you're passionate about olfactory art and want to engage with the Institute of Art and Olfaction, there are numerous opportunities to get involved:

Attend Engaging Events: Immerse yourself in the captivating world of olfactory art by participating in the Institute's immersive workshops, exhibitions, talks, and other events. These gatherings offer unique experiences and insights into the art of scent and provide a chance to connect with fellow enthusiasts.

Participate in Informative Workshops: The Institute hosts workshops covering various aspects of scent creation, exploration, and appreciation. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced enthusiast, these workshops offer an excellent opportunity to delve into the world of perfumery and olfactory art.

Support Emerging Artists: The Institute actively supports emerging and established olfactory artists, showcasing their work and providing valuable opportunities for growth. By purchasing their creations or attending their exhibitions, you directly contribute to the development of olfactory art and support talented artists.

Volunteer or Intern: If you're passionate about olfactory art and want to contribute, consider volunteering or interning with the Institute. By offering your time and skills, you can actively participate in event planning, assist with organizational activities, and help promote the mission of the Institute.

Collaborate and Contribute: The Institute welcomes collaboration and contributions from individuals with unique perspectives, ideas, or skills related to olfactory art. Whether you're a perfumer, artist, researcher, or enthusiast, don't hesitate to reach out to the Institute with your proposals or ideas for potential collaborations.

Spread Awareness: Advocate for the Institute and olfactory art by raising awareness. Share information about the Institute and its events through social media, word of mouth, or online platforms. Encourage others to explore the captivating world of olfactory art and its endless possibilities for creative expression.

To stay updated on the Institute of Art and Olfaction's latest activities and opportunities, visit their official website, subscribe to their newsletter, or follow their social media channels.

Visit the website!


In conclusion, the 2023 Art and Olfaction Awards in Downtown Los Angeles was a remarkable event that brought together the most brilliant minds in the perfumery world. From the alluring fragrances to the vibrant atmosphere, attendees experienced the enchantment of scent culture firsthand. As the festivities extended into Scent Week Los Angeles, the possibilities for scent exploration and appreciation became boundless.

If you're left craving more, I encourage you to dive into the captivating world of scent by exploring Scent Week. Mark your calendars for the next edition in 2024, and don't forget to stay updated and learn more about the Institute of Art and Olfaction. Let your senses guide you on a remarkable journey of olfactory discovery, where each fragrance tells a unique and evocative tale!



With immense gratitude and thanks to Founder and Executive Director Saskia Wilson-Brown who's generosity and utmost welcoming allowed me to participate and cover this event.  Again if you are local to Los Angeles or not! Please visit www.artandolfaction.com for ways you can support!

Signing off,

Alen