ABOUT THE DESIGN

Have you heard of the 'Proust effect'? It's a neuroscientific phenomenon where sensory stimuli such as scent and taste can evoke intense and emotional memories. And most research suggests that olfactory memory (recollection of scents) can trigger the most vivid of memories. (Yes, this is me reminiscing my neuroscience background lmao)

So when Sagal, owner of the Black-owned hand-poured candle brand @brwn_collective , approached me with an idea of a brand illustration depicting women of diverse backgrounds and cultures, I knew I wanted to tap into this 'Proust effect'. With this design, we wanted to give you a literal sensational experience that transports you into an intoxicating world of scents and nostalgic, vivid memories the moment you look at these illustrations and the second you breathe in these beautiful candle scents.

The intent behind this brand illustration is to tell a visual-olfactory story of a community of women from diverse regions coming together as one - as represented by the single line 'thread' that connects and unites each woman together. Each woman represents a carefully curated combination of stimulating aromas and nostalgic notes that intentionally transports you to your fondest memories associated with these scents.