A Passage Beyond

New York, 2026

A scent experience created for the Nicholas Roerich Museum, introducing botanical compositions throughout as a subtle sensory layer alongside the artworks and spaces. 

ABOUT THE PROJECT

Inspired by Roerich’s paintings and the atmosphere of the museum, NYN introduced three botanical scents throughout the galleries, inviting visitors to experience the museum through scent as well as sight. 

FROM THE HIMALAYAS

The scents were created by RASAYAN using natural botanical materials, with many ingredients sourced form the Himalayan region.  

                                                                                                                                                                               

THE APPROACH 

Rather than introducing scent as a separate element, NYN curated the scent experience in response to Roerich’s paintings, the character of the museum, and the way visitors move through its spaces.

Three botanical scents were selected and placed across different areas of the museum, each creating a distinct atmosphere while allowing visitors to encounter the works at their own pace.

Together, they offered another way of experiencing the museum, one that extended beyond the visual.

 

THREE SCENTS

01. Himalayan Rainforest
The passage begins


A deep, earthy scent evoking moist soil, ancient woods, and the quiet density of the forest. 

02. Unwind Ritual
The passage turns inward.

A soft, grounding scent that brings a sense of stillness and quiet restoration.

 

03. Energy Bloom
The passage opens.

A fresh, uplifting scent that brings clarity, brightness, and a subtle sense of energy. 

THE EXPERIENCE

During the exhibition, visitors encountered the scents alongside Roerich's paintings, moving through the galleries, sharing impressions, and experiencing the museum through another sensory layer. 

Tea and botanical-inspired refreshments accompanied the gathering, extending the experience into moments of conversation and connection. 

ONGOING INSTALLATION

The scent experience continues in the museum’s Himalayan Gallery as part of its ongoing multisensory installation.

CREDIT

Scent curation & experience
NYN

Scent creation 
RASAYAN

Refreshment
Manjurang

Wood object
Hanulmoksu

Presented at
Nicholas Roerich Museum, New York