Ngarn Wa’ngal: Art of the gum tree

Scent design for Ngarn Wa'ngal: Art of the gum tree.

When: 10 July – 21 November 2026
Where: Potter Museum of Art, University of Melbourne, VIC

Taking its title from the Woi Wurrung language, ngarn wa'ngal means "breathing for us." The exhibition explores the eucalypt as a source of creative inspiration across colonial, twentieth century and contemporary art, curated by Alisa Bunbury and Sophie Gerhard, and including five new artist commissions.

For this exhibition I curated a series of scents diffused through the gallery spaces. Two are drawn from individual eucalyptus species, each with its own distinct character, alongside a custom blend I formulated to capture the smell of smoking eucalyptus leaves.

Lemon-scented gum (Corymbia citriodora)

Strong lemony scent. Very bright, sparkly. Smells like citronella due to its naturally high concentration of citronellal.

Narrow-leaved peppermint (Eucalyptus radiata)

Similar but gentler than other eucalyptol-based oils. Softer, more rounded, with subtle peppermint and fruity undertones.

Smoked eucalyptus leaves

Formulated for this exhibition, evoking eucalyptus leaves smouldering on a fire. Dry, woody smoke is grounded by an earthy base, the scent of leaves and bark slowly releasing into the air.