- Chester Gibs Perfumer:
Chester Gibs is a remarkable figure in the world of perfumery, transitioning from a passionate collector to a creative force. A 2002 graduate of the Rietveld Academy of Fine Arts, he initially centered on drawing. However, his love for fragrance and being a dedicated perfume collector led to a pivotal realization: he could channel his creativity into perfume creation.
This epiphany ignited his enthusiasm for experimenting with raw materials and oils. Chester's unique approach to perfumery is deeply rooted in his Indonesian heritage. The scents of tropical flowers and kitchen spices from his cultural background serve as rich sources of inspiration. He draws a parallel between his love for cooking and perfumery, stating that cooking taught him how ingredients smell and interact, much like the components in a perfume. This blend of cultural, culinary, and olfactory sensibilities has enabled him to infuse a savory twist into his fragrances, a quality that stands out in the contemporary perfume market.
His debut fragrance, "Walk with Me", created in collaboration with Amsterdam's Annindriya, is a testament to his talent. It features an unusual citrus top note with creamy undertones, presenting a complex aroma that intrigues the wearer and defies easy categorization of its exact notes. Chester hopes that "Walk with Me" brings joy to those who wear it, acting as a sunny fragrance even on the coldest days.
In the process of creating "Walk with Me", Chester faced challenges such as finding the perfect balance in ingredient dosage and knowing when to finalize the formula. His lack of formal perfumery training led him to make distinct choices, but his art training proved invaluable in discerning between technical proficiency and aesthetic beauty in his creations. Meeting with master perfumer Christophe Laudamiel in New York was a significant moment. Laudamiel helped Chester streamline his formula - making process and provided critical insights that shaped the perfume's final version. As he continues to grow and develop his craft, Chester Gibs is undoubtedly a name to watch in the world of perfumery, with his fragrances promising to tell many more unique stories.
