Scandal Candles — Making Social Issues Impossible to Ignore

Date: 2018 | Amsterdam
 

Some problems need to stink.
 

In 2018, in collaboration with Amsterdam creative agency Fitzroy, a series of candles was developed around some of the world's most uncomfortable truths — the tobacco industry, ocean plastic pollution, child labour. Each candle was scented to match its subject: not pleasant, not subtle, and entirely intentional.

The concept was straightforward. Scent is visceral. It creates an immediate, physical reaction that words and visuals often fail to produce. By translating a social issue into smell, Scandal Candles made it impossible to stay at a comfortable distance from the subject.

The candles were hand-poured by people with a disability, adding another layer of meaning to the production process. They were never meant to be burned — they were made to make a statement. Proceeds went to charity organisations connected to each cause.

Scent as social commentary

Scandal Candles demonstrated that fragrance can carry a message far beyond atmosphere or luxury. When scent is used deliberately and conceptually, it becomes a medium for communication — one that reaches people on an emotional and physical level before the rational mind has time to filter it.

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Interested in using scent as a conceptual tool for your campaign, exhibition or cause? Get in touch.