Smellwalk in collaboration with Judit Szegő (Clean Air Action Group)

Thematic discussion moderated by Anett Mogyorósy

The city unfolds itself to us through our senses. We may explore our environment, its rhythm, atmosphere, texture, as well as its current condition through sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell. In recent times however, sight has become the predominant means for discovery, overruling other modes of sensory exploration and bonding. What if we closed our eyes and returned to those senses?

What smells and scents shape Budapest? What kind of human and non-human agents, environmental or social factors, activities determine it? How are these related to air quality? What stories and knowledge can scents unfold?

During the smellwalk we mapped the surrounding area by using our olfactory senses, and at the same time monitored the air pollution level of the walked area. 

The walk was followed by a thematic discussion related to the role of plants and urban green areas in air pollution abatement, the activities of Clean Air Action group and artistic practices addressing the topic.

Photo: Attila Balogh