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Sharon Park

BFA in Graphic Design — Graphic Design
Course:
Type 5: Transmedia
Faculty:
Jack McEntee
Term:
2025 Spring

Institute of Art and Olfaction

The Institute of Art and Olfaction (IAO) rebrand translates the invisible world of scent into an expressive visual language. Rooted in molecular structures, the system merges scientific precision with artistic experimentation, reflecting IAO’s mission to make scent accessible, innovative, and culturally relevant. Across print and digital applications, the identity expands through molecular diffusions: abstract forms that capture the sensory, atmospheric, and ephemeral nature of olfaction while maintaining clarity and intention.

Process:

The design addresses the challenge of making the abstract and often intangible world of scent playful, accessible, and engaging. By reflecting the uniqueness of fragrance, it captures attention and sparks curiosity, especially for younger audiences. It creates an entry point for those who might feel disconnected from the niche world of olfactory art. It inspires participants to explore, experiment, and immerse themselves in a creative community.

Learning Outcomes:

Through this project, I learned how to translate intangible concepts into visual form. I also gained experience building a cohesive design system, ensuring that visual elements remained adaptable and consistent across different platforms and applications. Additionally, I improved my problem-solving skills by balancing creativity with functionality, making sure that the designs were both visually engaging and user-friendly.

Project Website:
https://sharonpark.net/iao
Tags:
Branding,
Identity Design,
Web Design
The design takes inspiration from the delicate particles released when perfume is spritzed. The use of circles represent these dispersed elements, bringing a sense of movement and lightness. Varied, but calculated positioning creates a structure that feels both dynamic and playful, reinforcing the idea of fluidity within order. The design strikes a balance between clarity and expressiveness, allowing the audience to instantly grasp the concept in a simple yet memorable way.