Looking back at the exhibition by Skins, Mart Visser and ART[s] Gallery
The collaboration
The collaboration came about through Simone Jansen, founder of ART[s] Gallery, a platform that makes contemporary art more accessible. When Mart Visser spoke of his fascination with scent, she put him in touch with Philip Hillege, co-founder of Skins. “I wanted to find the best partner in the field of scent,” says Jansen. “I got in touch with Skins, and from there everything fell into place.”
What followed was not a literal translation of the perfume, but an intuitive response to it. Rough wooden textures, layered materials and abstract forms brought the atmosphere of each perfume to life. “With every perfume, I look at what the story is and how I can translate that into form. Is it sleek or, on the contrary, fragile? Thin or thick?” says Visser, explaining his approach.
It is precisely this openness that makes the works interesting. They do not attempt to explain scent, but rather show what scent can evoke. Some sculptures appear heavy and architectural, whilst others are organic and almost fragile. Materials split open, surfaces fray and structures seem to be in motion.
The studio as part of the experience
The studio setting gave the exhibition an extra personal touch. It wasn’t a traditional gallery space, but a place where ideas are still visibly in flux and works in progress feel just as interesting as the final result itself.
In the studio, visitors – ranging from art lovers to a select number of Skins Inclusive Members – were given the chance to get a closer look at the creative process.
“Many artists keep their studios closed off from the outside world,” says Philip. “Mart does the opposite. Visitors get to see not only the artwork, but also the process behind it.”
At the same time, the collaboration was also about accessibility. Not about putting art out of reach, but bringing it closer. “Whether you’re a collector or simply curious, it’s about being moved,” says Jansen.
According to Simone, that is precisely where the project’s strength lies. “Nothing touches your emotions faster than scent. By bringing scent and art together, you get close to someone’s experience.”
That feeling ran through the entire exhibition. Less focused on quick interpretation, more on attention. On looking, smelling and experiencing. On a way of experiencing art where art and perfume slowly merge into one another.
About the artworks
TIEMPE PASSATE | Antonia's Flowers
The open wirework appears light and almost weightless. The lines seem to float or slowly dissolve, causing the sculpture to change from every angle. The work has a certain fragility and modesty, with the same dreamy softness as Tiempe Passate.
WOODY | Layer+
The stacking of wooden forms gives the sculpture a powerful, earthy presence. Wood grain, rhythm and contrast create a piece that feels both robust and refined. The warm tones and natural layering are perfectly in keeping with the character of Woody.
BLUE TALISMAN | EX NIHILO
The vertical form gives the sculpture a sense of ascension, as if it were slowly moving into space. The deep shades of blue and the combination of clean-lined and rounded forms create a powerful presence without becoming heavy. Just like Blue Talisman, the work feels clear, fresh and intense.
Ganymede | Marc-Antoine Barrois
The sculpture combines strength with a striking softness. The tall, vertical forms feel monumental, whilst the rounded lines have a supple, almost tactile quality. Just like Ganymede, the work remains warm, light and elegant all at once.
The sculptures from this collaboration are available through ART[s] Gallery. Anyone wishing to view a work up close or find out more about the series can contact ART[s] Gallery for availability and personalised advice.
