Billed as "Palettes for the Senses: Art + Scent Demystified,"
HEDGE Gallery's new show may be described any number of ways, but "demystified" probably isn't among them. Instead, the visual and olfactory show evokes things profoundly mystifying.
A collection of 11 local and national artists presents works in various media, each of which is paired with a scent carefully curated by Ann Bouterse of
Indigo Perfumery.
Next to each offering, a glass cloche upon a pedestal houses a vial of perfume. Visitors are invited to lift the dome and inhale deeply of its upturned interior. The scents are immersive to the point of sensuality and beyond. They also impart an unexpected new dimension to the artworks that is surprisingly effective.
Try Nikki Woods'
Sugar Shack paired with
Sulmona by Coquillete Paris, Liz Maugens'
Fractured Atlas and funky neon
Facts of Life accented by
Molecule 02 by Escentric Molecules or Rebecca Cross's
Sheild (pink spikes) and
Shield (green spikes) floating upon notes of
Dupont Circle by monsillage.
This author will not attempt the journalistic version of a "dancing about architecture" faux pas and apply awkward descriptions to these transcendent and unique perfumes. Suffice it to say when you leave the show, the quiet and personal experience stays with you like the impression of a lover's gentle lips.
Readers are invited to judge for themselves at the opening reception tonight from 5 to 9 p.m. A when Bouterse of Indigo will be present to discuss the creation of custom fragrances and the complex nature of the scents she curated for the show. This event is free and open to the public.
The gallery's regular hours are Tuesday through Friday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and every third Friday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Weekends and evenings by appointment. HEDGE is on the second floor of the
78th Street Studios.
"Palettes for the Senses: Art + Scent Demystified" will be on view through March 3.