Aura
Aura
Sunday January 18 and Sunday January 25 2026
10am-5pm
Pre-requisite : Chimera or Odorata
This two-day intensive turns its focus toward the contemporary palette of aroma molecules, the backbone of modern perfumery. Working in tandem with naturals, synthetic ingredients allow for structure, lift, and effects that would be impossible to achieve otherwise while also offering safety benefits and the beginnings of ecologically sustainable practices. Building on the groundwork laid in Chimera, participants will explore the most significant contemporary aroma ingredients through extended smelling, guided experiments, and focused accord building. The aim is to cultivate fluency in both the individual characteristics of these molecules and the ways they transform and extend natural palettes.
Beyond material study, Aura emphasizes the principles of composition as practiced in contemporary perfumery. Participants will learn to balance synthetics with naturals, exploring how structure and effect shift depending on material choice. Through practical exercises and discussion, the class addresses how to create accords, how to structure a fragrance, and the best methods for working with synthetics as opposed to when working exclusively with naturals. The result is a clear, practice-based foundation for those wishing to move further into the complex craft of perfume design.
Details:
Pre-requisite: Chimera or Odorata
Duration: 2 days, 6 hours/day + lunch breaks
10:00am-5:00pm
Wear: comfortable clothing you don’t mind occasional spills on, and weather appropriate layers for breaks outside