FRANCIS LIBIRAN PERFUMES
By Oscar Mejia III
In creating The Francis Libiran Perfumes collection, Francis and I were inspired by what we believe are the most spirited moments of the day.
Dusk and dawn are never without drama. As the skies showcase a play of light and shadow and painted with a melange of calming and vivid hues, one’s heart is stirred by feelings of passion, hope, gratitude and deep joy.
We wanted Dawn to warm the heart and enliven the spirit. As such, I highlighted the some familiar Filipino notes such the radiance of pomelo and olive and set it on a lingering veil of sampaguita and warm patchouli.
Dusk, on the other hand is an homage to grace and romance. For this fragrance, I contrasted the refreshing notes of bamboo and white tea with velvety hints of chamomile and rose in deep burgundy—all enrobed in a warm glow of musk and amber.
Francis Libiran Perfumes Home Collection is therefore an invitation to a good life. They bring inspiration to new beginnings and warmth and comfort in celebration of victories.
ENIGMA OF SCENT
A perfumed installation at Art in the Park.
The oversized perfume bottle represents a myriad of objects exploring the possibility of bottling many things tangible and intangible. Arising from the bottle are scented bubbles as if the molecules are magnified with every spray of a perfume.
It is an invitation to release ourselves from our conscious thoughts and to channel an intimate experience through our feelings.
The molecules travel through air until they touch people intimately- from, “It smells good” and “it smells like sampaguita, lemon and grass” to “I remember the first time I fell in love” or “it makes me feel nostalgic” and even “it takes me to my favorite holiday spot”.
There might be common themes, but each story is different. The Enigma of Scent, in its mystery, evokes the unconscious -- both personal and collective.
It likewise demonstrates how a tiny drop of perfume can have a far reaching effect- measured not just in distance but in the very depth of one's humanity.
REVOLUTIONARY: MUSIC OF JULIO NAKPIL
Ayala Museum
In celebration of Julio Nakpil's 100th birth year, a special concert by the Manila Symphony Orchestra was held at the Ayala Museum.
The repertoire featured notable pieces of the famed composer including Ylang-Ylang. As the music played, the scent of ylang-ylang filled the hall to give the listeners a unique sensory experience.
For this collaboration, Oscar Mejia III also developed two exclusive scents: Malaya, a Reed Diffuser Home Fragrance and Brisas de Ylang Ylang Eau de Toilette. Both scents were incorporated in a month-long olfactory exhibit.