Tor, 2023 MAXWELL WILLIAMS methyl benzoate and piperonal 50mL | Edition of 1 | $450
composed of the two molecules commonly used to train drug-sniffing dogs to detect cocaine and MDMA
artist statement: "Tor" is a minimalist perfume that explores the power of scent as a means of detection. The artwork is a unique fragrance composed of only two molecules, methyl benzoate and piperonal, which are commonly used in the training of drug-sniffing dogs as a means to detect cocaine and MDMA respectively. Through this work, I seek to confront the complex relationship between perfume and surveillance. I am specifically calling this a perfume, as it challenges the wearer; the wearer must be aware of the situation upon which they are able to don the perfume. E.g. the wearer cannot wear this perfume to the airport or other places where canine law enforcement might be present or it poses a risk to the wearer.
Despite its simplicity, this perfume is a testament to the power of scent to provoke. It is a sensory experience that invites the viewer to question their own relationship with scent, and to consider the ways in which scent can be used to manipulate and control.
about Maxwell Williams: Maxwell Williams is a perfumer, olfactory artist, researcher, DJ/producer, and writer based in Los Angeles. Williams’ work places smell in the context of performance, research, sculpture, and photography to explore a personal history of sadomasochism, techno and gabber raves, global trade routes, heartbreak, and the psychology behind the hedonics of scent. Williams’ perfume brand UFO Parfums is a fine fragrance project, inspired by rave culture, and always gender-spectral. They have held solo exhibitions and performances at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles; the Institute for Art and Olfaction, Los Angeles; Galerie de Thorigny, Paris; and more. Previously, Williams was a figure in the art, fashion, and journalism worlds, serving as an editor at several global art and fashion magazines. They sit on the board of the Institute for Art and Olfactio