Three years ago, I got an unexpected email from my agent. An editor wanted to talk to me about a very unusual project. The concept:
A scratch-and-sniff art history book.
Of course I needed to hear more about that. So emails were exchanged, phone calls were held, and in the fullness of time, I was researching and writing the text for the most delightfully silly project. And now Scratch & Sniff Art History: A Smellable Guide to Becoming an Art Expert.
It was a joy to write, and now that it is getting out in the world, it’s been a joy to see the reaction. People love incongruity of it. Visual arts are just that–visual. Other senses don’t come into play. But here’s a book that attempts to involve smell, the most visceral of senses.
The book goes on sale September 1st, 2026, and you can find it just about anywhere books are sold: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and your favorite independent bookstore.
I posted a video to Facebook with more info, so check that out as well! And, hey, if you happen to be with the media or a podcast host or have some sort of book or art platform, I would be delighted to talk to you about this project, so give me a shout!
