Scent As Interpretation: A Brief Introduction to Olfactory Heritage & Museology

Museums have long interpreted history, culture, and place through objects, images, and text. But what can scent help visitors understand?

This one-hour introductory class explores olfactory museology, the practice of using scent as an interpretive medium in museums, cultural institutions, and heritage spaces. Designed for museum professionals, educators, heritage practitioners, students, and anyone interested in the role of smell in cultural interpretation, the course provides a concise introduction to the field and its growing body of research and practice.

What you will learn:

In this one-hour session, you'll be introduced to the foundations of olfactory museology and olfactory heritage. Together, we'll explore why smell matters as part of our cultural and historical record, how scent can function as a tool for interpretation, and the opportunities and challenges of working with smell as public engagement. You'll leave understanding scent not just as atmosphere or novelty, but as a medium for education and communicating knowledge.

Who this class is for:

This class is open to anyone. No prior knowledge of museums, heritage, or scent is required. Museum professionals, educators, designers, researchers, heritage practitioners, students, and curious learners are all welcome.

What to expect:

A focused, content-rich introduction to the field of olfactory museology. In just one hour, participants will gain an overview of key concepts, terminology, and approaches through real-world examples drawn from museum and heritage practice. While introductory rather than comprehensive, the course provides a strong foundation for further exploration of olfactory heritage and scent-based interpretation.