Expanded Drops at Maison Francis Kurkdjian Paris: a free exhibition that transforms perfume into image

À Parisa free exhibition challenges our senses and our eyes. With Expanded Drops at Maison Francis Kurkdjian, perfume emerges from the bottle to become image, material and sensitive narrative.

When perfume reveals itself through images

Photographer Christelle Boulé uses drops of fragrance on photosensitive paper. Each formula reveals unexpected shapes and colors. The gesture is simple, yet the effect is striking and deeply poetic.

The title Expanded Drops says it all. This free exhibition opens up a visual field based on a scent, without forced narration.

The dialogue with perfumer Francis Kurkdjian provides a rare framework for this research. The House, founded in 2009, has taken on the role of intermediary between art and know-how.

“Here, fragrance is not just worn on the skin, it’s imprinted on the retina.

A sensitive protocol, between science and intuition in this free exhibition

Secondly, the method is similar to the photogram, but with an unexpected reagent: smell. As a result, perfume chemistry becomes visible, like a weather map of its volatile notes.

From now on, we don’t just “feel”: we observe. On the other hand, nothing is didactic; the journey remains open, free, almost meditative.

• 100% free admission, accessible without reservation depending on attendance
• Location: Maison Francis Kurkdjian, Paris
• Artist : Christelle Boulé
• Project: Expanded Drops, perfume rendering image
• Schedule: according to information provided on site

Why this event is important for the curious

What’s more, the eye is shaped differently when the sense of smell becomes a visual guide. We learn to recognize a texture, then link a shape to a sensation.

And yet there’s no need to know anything about perfumery. Everyone reads these prints as they breathe, according to their own memory and culture.

This free exhibition offers suspended time in the heart of the city. As a result, it becomes a calming landmark in our hurried daily lives.

Art, know-how and cultural hospitality

Maison Francis Kurkdjian confirms its public commitment. Free access makes sense: emotion has no admission ticket.

In short, this is a gallery on a human scale. Visits are made at your own pace, without emphasis, with a real quality of welcome.

What you’ll see

Large abstract prints, for example, reveal constellations, layers and splinters. Color comes from the reactions themselves; nothing is added.

Secondly, each piece retains the trace of a specific fragrance, used as is. Sometimes we perceive a lively energy, sometimes a diffuse sweetness.

This materiality is astonishing, since smell is normally invisible. Here, it is anchored to paper and becomes a tangible memory.

Prepare your visit with ease

And its central location makes it an easy cultural stop-off on the daily commute. On-site signage provides clear orientation, even at peak times.

As a result, this free exhibition fits in with tight schedules. Two stops are enough: a first look, then a return to refine your preferences.

Who is Expanded Drops for?

And for image lovers looking for a sensory out-of-focus experience. To curious noses who like to experience a formula differently.

On the other hand, you don’t need to be an expert to appreciate it. Families, students and professionals will all find different keys.

This free exhibition also helps creative people in search of references. As a result, it nourishes the imagination without imposing a single discourse.

• free exhibition