Discover the Artistic Fusion of Fragrance and Visual Art with D’Otto
Art and fragrance intertwine seamlessly, creating a unique sensory experience that captivates and inspires. At The Perfume Society, we have always believed that the art of fine fragrance creation is a profound expression of creativity. We were ecstatic to witness the launch of the Italian niche fragrance house D’Otto in 2022, which takes this concept to new heights with their innovative ‘liquid art’ approach. Each fragrance in their luxurious collection draws direct inspiration from significant modern artworks, illustrating how deeply connected these two forms of expression truly are. D’Otto emphasizes this bond beautifully, highlighting how fragrances can evoke emotions and memories through olfactory experiences.
‘Visual artists express themselves through shape and colour, free from rigid boundaries and expectations. Musical artists express themselves through chord progressions and note expressions. Perfumers transmit emotional messages by composing fragrances with olfactory notes and accords. These approaches in both art and perfumery are inextricably linked – forms of communication and powerful sources of human emotion that speak to our inner child, bringing memories to the forefront of our minds in an instant.’
Little wonder that this collection is not only artistically conceived but also exquisitely realized, as it is crafted by the talented third-generation Italian perfumer, Paolo Terenzi. Known as an ‘unconventional storyteller and musician,’ Paolo possesses a diverse professional background that includes degrees in law and philosophy, along with studies in chemistry and physics. His lifelong passion for poetry informs his work, allowing him to trace his artistic lineage back to his family’s roots in 15th Century Rimini. Here, he connects with the legacy of the nobleman Gabriele Terenzi, a lover of art and alchemy who passed away around 1450, showcasing how creativity flows through generations.
We are particularly enamored with the way each fragrance is articulated, as it references the materials and techniques used by the artist who inspired its creation. The descriptions delve into the colors, brushstrokes, and signature styles of these visual masterpieces, offering a visceral understanding of each scent’s character. This immersive approach goes beyond merely listing ingredients, many of which may be unfamiliar to us. Instead, it paints a vivid picture of how these fragrances might feel when worn on our skin, enriching our sensory experience and deepening our appreciation for the artistry involved.
Thrillingly, you have the opportunity to sample D’Otto’s remarkable creations and experience this fragrant artistry firsthand through two of The Perfume Society’s exclusive Discovery Boxes. These boxes are perfect for those eager to explore the innovative scents crafted by D’Otto, allowing fragrance enthusiasts to engage with each scent’s unique story.
For the Launches To Love Discovery Box – £23 / £19 for VIP members – we chose D’Otto 1+7.
FAMILY: FOUGERE
TOP NOTES: grapefruit, bergamot, lemon, petitgrain
HEART NOTES: orange blossom, sage, lavender, thyme
BASE NOTES: sandalwood, vetiver, musk, ambergris, oud
“Opening with luminous transparency, 1+7 is at first smooth and bright. An explosive and uplifting citrus bouquet of Calabrian bergamot, Sorrento lemon and Sicilian grapefruit represents the canvas and flecks of white paint used in Number 31 by Jackson Pollock.”
And in the Scintillating Scents Discovery Box – priced at £33 / £29 for VIP members – you’ll have the chance to receive one of either D’Otto 2+6, 3+5, 5+3, or 6+2. Each of these fragrances carries a unique story and artistic inspiration, allowing you to explore the breadth of D’Otto’s creative vision.
Read and dream at the evocative descriptions of each fragrance – and discover the fascinating full story behind the brand – on our dedicated page for the house of D’Otto. This is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the artistic process behind these captivating scents, giving you a deeper appreciation for the talent involved.
In the meantime, while you eagerly await the arrival of your samples, we invite you to reflect on which iconic artistic works YOU believe should be transformed into fragrances. Consider what notes they would embody and which styles of perfumery would best express the essence of those artists’ creations. When we ask people to envision a fragrance in a more abstract manner, we often encourage them to think of colors, artistic materials, and brushstrokes. How wonderful it is that D’Otto utilizes this artistic inspiration as a springboard for crafting their own unique scents. We’re excited to see (and smell!) what new creations will emerge in their future collections!
Written by Suzy Nightingale
