On 9 December, AVM Curiosities will be pairing performers with aromas at Winter Notes, an intimate multi-sensory exploration of Chiswick House. Here we meet Tasha Marks, award-winning artist and founder of AVM Curiosities to find out more.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your work

I’m Tasha, the founder of AVM Curiosities, which is a creative practice that looks at how to incorporate the senses into historic spaces and beyond! I’ve spent the last ten years working with cultural institutions, including; The British Museum, The National Gallery and the V&A, each project leading to a unique sensory art experience.

What is Winter Notes and how did you come up with the idea?

Winter Notes is a multi-sensory exploration of Chiswick House, that sees three performers paired with three perfumes. Scent is a storyteller, so the hope is that the aromas enhance the narrative of the performances as well as providing a memorable collective experience for the audience.

What will audiences experience on 9 December?

Attendees of Winter Notes will be treated to an intimate performance by three fantastic performers, including a classical cellist and an award-winning poet. As host of the event, I will introduce each performer and each scent pairing in order to take visitors on a sonic and olfactory journey!

Why is scent so evocative?

Scent is the sense most closely linked to memory, so my hope is that by incorporating scent into the experience I am creating a longer-lasting impression of this fantastic 18th century building. Our sense of smell is also closely linked to our emotions and our identities, so everyone’s experience of the evening will be unique.

How did you select the pairings?

The pairings are selected after discussions with the performers. It is a collaborative process that involves a certain amount of back and forth. The final aromas are still in development, but they are all smells that tell a story. They’re not perfumes for people, but rather scents for spaces. I’m interested in how we can change the atmosphere and feel of a room with scent. It really is a magical thing.

Winter Notes is on Thursday 9 December at 17:00, 18:30 and 20:00, tickets £25 (£15 for Members). Book at: https://chiswickhouseandgardens.org.uk/event/members-event-winter-notes/