project: One Tree ID – Salix alba

Tree, perfumes, cloud furniture
2025

Every tree, plant and human has its own distinct scent. One Tree ID creates a biochemical connection between trees and humans by means of a perfume enabling people to ‘become a tree to another tree’.

Each tree emits a cloud of gases and molecules called VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Trees use this invisible ID to communicate with their environment. Collaborating with scientific partners, Meyer-Brandis transformed the ID of specific trees into perfumes by measuring and synthesizing the VOC clouds released by their roots, stems and foliage.

By applying the perfume, humans can invisibly communicate with trees. The installation invites us to reflect on the relationship between trees, nature, and humans. The best way to connect with the tree is to apply the perfume in its immediate vicinity.

Two tree species were chosen for this exhibition: the white willow (Salix alba ‘splendens sibirica’) and the bullet tree or black olive tree (Bucida buceras). The white willow on the museum grounds is almost 100 years old. It was chosen and planted in the 1930s by the horticulturist and architect Paul Olsson.