How does scent connect to psychology? That's what host Jeff Miller is exploring with Dr. Debra Riley Parr, an art historian and educator specializing in olfactory art and sensory studies. Dr. Parr, Associate Professor at Columbia College Chicago, break down the fascinating ways in which our sense of smell intersects with identity, culture, and historical memory, particularly highlighting connections with race, Juneteenth, and the politics of scent.

Dr. Parr curates innovative art exhibitions such as VOLATILE! at The Poetry Foundation, showcasing the interplay between scent, poetry, and visual arts. In this episode, she explains how olfactory experiences challenge traditional sensory hierarchies, bridge cultural divides, and encourage profound connections among communities. Plus, Jeff and Dr. Parr talk about the emotional and societal implications of scent, the challenges of curating olfactory art, and the importance of expanding sensory education.

Perfect for art enthusiasts, fragrance lovers, and anyone intrigued by sensory experiences, this conversation invites you to reconsider the power of scent in shaping who we are and how we connect.

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