Museums embrace olfactory experiences to engage visitors

Museums are increasingly integrating scent-based installations into their exhibitions, capitalizing on the popularity of immersive experiences to attract broader audiences. A recent article in Le Journal des Arts explores how institutions are deploying olfactory devices alongside visual and auditory elements to create multisensory encounters. The trend reflects a shift toward engaging visitors' sense of smell, historically neglected in museum settings. The piece, published on May 28, 2026, by Isabelle Manca-Kunert, notes that these efforts aim to deepen emotional connections and accessibility. No specific museums or artists are named in the summary, but the broader movement is documented as part of a growing sensory turn in cultural heritage presentation.