The art and emotion behind perfume

In our conversation, Francesca Bianchi shared intimate insights into her creative process, childhood inspirations, and the personal experiences that shaped her career as a perfumer.

Can you recall the moment when you decided to become a perfumer? Where were you, and what triggered that decision?
My journey into perfumery traces back to my childhood. Perfumes were always significant and inspiring to me, which was a bit unusual. I remember not all kids, like, were attracted to perfumes. Not even adults were attracted to perfumes that much. Th eir lack of interest felt almost like a disconnect in my own world.

Either way, I remember sharing Yves Saint Laurent’s Paris with my sister. We liked this perfume because it was worn by a sweet person we both dearly loved. Since then, I am profoundly touched by the emotional connections that scents can create. My first personal purchase was Dior’s Poison, which I bought with my pocket money at 14. By 17, I had a collection of ten perfumes, a substantial number for someone my age. While my friends had just one or none, my collection reflected a deep emotional connection rather than an interest in perfume notes. The decision to become a perfumer solidified later in life when I met an Italian perfumer, who encouraged me to pursue this passion despite my initial doubts.If you could teach any topic related to perfumery, what would it be?If I had the opportunity, I would teach about the emotional impact of fragrances. Understanding how scents evoke emotions and memories is crucial for creating perfumes that resonate deeply with people. It’s not just about technical knowledge but about capturing and conveying feelings through fragrance.

If you could teach any topic related to perfumery, what would it be?
If I had the opportunity, I would teach about the emotional impact of fragrances. Understanding how scents evoke emotions and memories is crucial for creating perfumes that resonate deeply with people. It’s not just about technical knowledge but about capturing and conveying feelings through fragrance.

If you were a perfume ingredient, what kind would you be and why?
I would choose iris, specifically iris butter, because of its multifaceted nature. Iris represents elegance and complexity, with its violet, green, earthy, and powdery nuances. It reminds me of the paintings of Mark Rothko, which have a similar opaqueness and mesmerizing quality. The root of the iris is where its essence lies, and it reflects a certain depth and mystery that I find very appealing.

What do you enjoy the most on a day off?
On a day off, I cherish the quiet moments of solitude. I enjoy being alone to reflect and create without interruptions. It’s during these times that I feel most at peace and inspired.

What sparks your imagination or wandering thoughts?
A variety of things spark my imagination. English and French poetry from the 19th century, diverse music genres, and even the tranquility of silence can all inspire me. Music, in particular, plays a significant role in my creative process, from classical to electronic.

When you think of “hedonism,” what comes to mind, and what does it mean to you?
To me, hedonism means indulging in life’s pleasures and comforts. However, I also see it as a balance against the hard work and challenges of life. It’s about enjoying luxury in a way that enriches the soul, like savoring quiet moments, cozy comforts, and personal pleasures. It’s not about showing off wealth but finding true comfort and joy.

When you reflect on your first collaboration with Tanja, what is the first memory or experience that comes to mind?
My first collaboration with Tanja was incredibly special. I felt honored and humbled to be asked to create something for the 10th anniversary. The process was both exciting and enlightening as it was my first commercial brief. The collaboration flowed naturally and was a great learning experience, reinforcing the joy and synergy that come from working together.