It’s tradition for perfumers to have a ‘trophy’ wall in their office; a shelf with all their creations. It starts out bare, of course, but as their career progresses, it fills up with beautiful bottles and extravagant boxes, as a testament to their talent. Always dressed in a sharp white shirt, Francis Kurkdjian is the face behind Le Male by Jean-Paul Gaultier, Rose Barbare by Guerlain and Narciso by Narciso Rodriguez. An eloquent and expressive interviewee, Francis is a storyteller to begin with, just as his perfumes transform chemistry into alchemy, so do his words bestow coherence and compelling metaphors to the world of fragrances. Edited excerpts...
What is your origin story? Why did you choose to be a perfumer?
Perfume chose me at an early age. I was fascinated by the world of craftsmanship and mostly the world of couture. At age 14, I read an article about perfumers on the glossy pages of a French magazine. I had a revelation which awoke something within me, a fire that still remains. I studied perfumery at the perfumery school in Versailles, ISIPCA; I then pursued my master’s in marketing while being an intern, a trainee perfumer in a fragrance corporation based in Paris.
What is your greatest source of inspiration? Have there been mentors or influences on your work as a perfumer?
I believe inspiration is the invisible part of one’s creation. It’s by far the hardest part of what I do and the most challenging one as time goes by. My sources of inspiration are wide and varied, they range from ancient, modern to contemporary art, fashion, couture and of course the present. It’s all about mixing them with my first hand experiences of life as we call it.
What is your creative philosophy?
This story is from the October 2019 edition of L'Officiel India.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the October 2019 edition of L'Officiel India.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
FUTURISTIC VISIONS OF "FLYING CARS”
From Mini Jet Engines To Souped-Up Helicopters, Here’s A Look At What Seven Noteworthy Players Have Worked On. Dive In To Know All The Deets.
WE KNOW ALL THE DIRT!
It’s That Glorious Moment When Your Garden Gets A Turbo Boost, Transforming Into The Trendiest Hotspot Of The Season. Get Ready To Sprinkle Some Magic Dust On Your Outdoor Oasis!
FALLIN FOR THE CHARMS
Are You Intrigued To Celebrate Grandeur And Ornamentation, Yet Having A Relaxed And Lived-In Feel? Count Yourselves In!
WHERE TO? SUN, SAND, AND SKYSCRAPERS!
Welcome To The City Of Gold! We Believe Life In Dubai Is Like A Burj’ Of Surprises. Here’s Your Golden Sign To Catch The Next Flight To Dubai!
SEAS THE DAY, MY FRIEND!
March Brings The Ultimate Beach Vibes Not Too Hot, Not Too Cold, Just Right For A Sandy Adventure! And Guess What? It’s Prime Time For That Long-Awaited Beach Getaway!
ART FORM THAN A TYPICAL WATCHBAND
When We Say Wristwatch, We Look For Timelessness’ And Guess What, We Found An Overachiever But In The Category Of HideousNess. Don't Believe Us? Brace Yourselves, Folks!
LUXURY LUNCH BOX ON THE BLOCK
Whether You're A Fashion Aficionado Or Simply Seeking A Conversation-Starter Accessory, We've Got The It' Bag That Is Sure To Turn Heads For All The Starving Reasons). Dive In To Find Out!
WITHOUT AN INVITE, ALL GRAMMY INSIGHTS!
We Can Never Be Too Late To Become The Fashion Critics For The Biggest Music Awards The Grammys! Dive In To Check Out The Diamond Affair Of The Night!
Putting the 'HEEL IN 'HEELARIOUS'
Loewe Didn't Exactly Need The Product Because, Let’s Face It, They Were Already Rocking The Fashion Scene Like A Boss. But, Who Knows, Maybe There Were Some Secret Reasons Behind It!
Fusion of GLAMOUR & GIVING
Having honed her skills in organizing glamorous events for renowned French luxury brands, this French native is now dedicating her talents to those most in need.
