Brian Goeltzenleuchter
Inside a highly trafficked public space stands a hand sanitizing station. Using a touch-free system, it dispenses a dollop of hand sanitizer to those wishing to protect themselves against flu bugs, germs and dangerous pathogens. Employing an institutional design aesthetic of brushed aluminum base and off-white dispenser, these stations are designed to blend into the environment. However unremarkable its visual presence appears, these objects are actually artworks. While they indeed dispense hand sanitizer, the sanitizer is fragranced with the Scents of Exile.
Scents of Exile, Olfactory public artwork launched at Utica Station, New York. Freestanding hand sanitizing dispenser, scented hand sanitizer and corresponding digitally printed flyers. Partnership with Mohawk Valley Refugee Center and Sculpture Space, New York.
Scents of Exile (SoE) is an ongoing art project that bears witness to the refugee and immigrant experience, one person at a time. The project records scent memories of home as told by US-based refugees and immigrants to artist, Brian Goeltzenleuchter. Using cosmetic-grade materials, the artist translates the stories into fragrances, which are embedded into hand sanitizer. Partner institutions are loaned SoE sanitizing stations to use at public events in an effort to raise awareness and initiate dialogue.
Scents of Exile (SoE) is an ongoing art project that bears witness to the refugee and immigrant experience, one person at a time. The project records scent memories of home as told by US-based refugees and immigrants to artist, Brian Goeltzenleuchter. Using cosmetic-grade materials, the artist translates the stories into fragrances, which are embedded into hand sanitizer. Partner institutions are loaned SoE sanitizing stations to use at public events in an effort to raise awareness and initiate dialogue.