Francis Kurkdjian Unveils the Inspiration Behind His Latest Scent

Following the launch of his latest perfume, Kurky, Francis Kurkdjian draws inspiration from his youth, crafting a cheerful aroma that celebrates his inner child.

Francis Kurkdjian IMAGE PROVIDED BY THE COMPANY

Francis Kurkdjian ( @franciskurkdjian_official The innovative perfumer behind Maison Francis Kurtjyan has consistently focused on crafting scents fueled by passion rather than following fleeting trends. His most recent launch, Kurky, serves as a personal tribute influenced by nostalgic recollections that capture a spirit of youthful impulsiveness and awe. 176 Northeast 41st Street, Miami, @maisonfranciskurkdjian

Is your approach distinctive when developing a new scent? Could you guide us through the process?

Each new perfume presents itself as an opportunity to tackle anew. Should it feel otherwise, it implies merely replicating what exists. Regardless, when crafting every essence, my methodology stays consistent. First up is naming—it encapsulates the narrative I wish to unfold. Crafting this aspect demands considerable thought, pondering over the tale and clarifying my artistic intent. This isn’t driven by current fads; instead, once the concept and title solidify, they guide me into formulating the blend. Composing the recipe marks the final phase since the formulation serves solely to express the intended storyline and evoke specific feelings. In essence, materials are just instruments in hand, and our role as creators lies in skillfully wielding them.

What is Kurky's vision?

Kurky encourages us to view life with playful and joyful eyes. This fragrance inspires us to take risks, chase dreams, and reconnect with our youthful spirit. It’s about having the courage to observe the world with the same wonder and innocence as a child.

In what ways has your personal journey influenced the fragrances you develop?

At the heart of my creativity lie my individual experiences and recollections. Whether through interactions with life, friends, relatives, or travels—any situation evoking emotions serves as fuel for my imagination. Literary works, meetings, and various art forms shape my perspective. As for location, Paris, which I call home, plays an essential role in sparking my inspiration; indeed, the entire Maison Francis Kurkdjian embodies homage to this city.

The newest scent from Maison Francis Kurkdjian, named Kurky. PHOTO PROVIDED BY THE BRAND

What emotions do you want Kurky to convey and evoke?

Kurky is designed to amaze, differentiate itself, challenge our preconceptions, and engage our mature intellects with its youthful essence. As Saint-Exupéry’s "The Little Prince" posits, “All grown-ups were once children... but only a few of them recall it.” Kurky embodies this concept as a scent from childhood tailored for adults, encouraging us to embrace boldness and explore life via a spectrum of hues.

What do you believe makes for a strong fragrance?

The key to a strong fragrance lies in its capacity to tell a tale, fostering an emotional and intimate bond with the person who wears it.

Photography courtesy of the brand

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