- Abderrazzak Benchaâbane Perfumer:
Abderrazzak Benchaâbane is a remarkable figure in the world of perfumery, hailing from Marrakech, Morocco, where he was born in 1959. His journey into the olfactory realm began early, influenced by the enchanting scents of the souks and gardens in his hometown.
Academically, Benchaâbane holds two doctorates in botany and ethnobotany, which he acquired after initially studying biology. He is currently a professor at the University of Marrakech, sharing his knowledge with students. His academic background provides a solid foundation for his work in perfumery, as he deeply understands the botanical world and its scented offerings.
In 1998, his career took a significant turn when Yves Saint Laurent asked him to restore the Jardin Majorelle. This project, which he dedicated a decade to, not only restored the garden's natural potential but also led to a new passion. After the restoration, at Yves Saint Laurent's request, Benchaâbane created the "Jardin Majorelle" perfume in 2001. This experience propelled him further into the world of fragrance creation.
In 2004, he launched his own perfume line, "Parfums du Soir," with the fragrance "Soir de Marrakech." This perfume, inspired by traditional preparations and using Moroccan vegetable oils, is a blend of amber, musk, vanilla, patchouli, jasmine, orange, and lemon flowers, capturing the essence of Marrakech. His perfume collection has since grown to include around 10 fragrances, each crafted with care and inspired by his love for Morocco and its scents. He emphasizes that creating perfumes is a process of sharing his dreams, emotions, and love, encapsulating the art of life in Morocco within a bottle.
Benchaâbane is not just a perfumer but also a multi - faceted artist. He is a photographer, with his works featured in many exhibitions and galleries across Morocco and Europe since 1981. His black - and - white photographs, which are published in the book "Intimate Morocco" and permanently displayed at a museum, offer an inside view of his beloved country.
He is also actively involved in promoting environmental awareness. He founded the "Jardins du Maroc" magazine and the "Festival Jardin’Art" in Marrakech, aiming to raise public awareness about the importance of gardens in life and the need for environmental protection. Additionally, in 2010, he established the Musée de l’Art de Vivre, and in 2011, the Musée de la Palmeraie, dedicated to contemporary art.
In summary, Abderrazzak Benchaâbane's contributions to perfumery, art, and environmental awareness, all deeply rooted in his Moroccan heritage, have made him a respected and influential figure both in Morocco and on the international stage.
