Ayana Ishihara

I attended the 5th Experimental Scent Summit and the 10th Art and Olfaction Awards, both organised by the Institute for Art and Olfaction (IAO), in Lisbon.

On 6 June, the Scent Summit — organised by IAO and Smell Lab — featured 20 speakers, including olfactory artists, perfumers, and scent practitioners from around the world who shared their work and ideas. My teacher, Maki Ueda, also presented her work, and I was grateful for the opportunity to assist her during the presentation.

On 7 June, the Art and Olfaction Awards ceremony took place. A total of nine awards were presented, and each winner received a “Golden Pear” statuette. It was moving to witness the moment when artists, perfumers, and contributors were celebrated for their dedication and creativity.

Over these two days, I was deeply inspired by the exchange of knowledge and perspectives within the scent community. I’m truly glad I took the chance to be part of it.