For my art portion, I began composing research on the history of perfume in each country that was apart of my ethnicity. I then further chose one that I felt had the greatest amount of depth and impact, which was South Africa where the idea of perfume originated. I began to study the first forms of perfume created by the Bushmen or San tribe. I was able to uncover certain notes and ingredients that were used, the structure of the perfume bottles, etc. With my new found knowledge, I designed by own perfume bottle in the context of my culture. The shape of the bottle, color, and ideal ingredients I determined for this perfume each tied back to my findings throughout this project. Below is a slideshow of how I got to my final product.
English - Proposal
For my English portion of this project, I decided to compose a press segment as if I were proposing my perfume to be sold in various locations. My goal was to capture the reader's attention, advertise my perfume, but also share the story, culture, and depth behind the scent itself. I gave the reader a detailed overview of Igwe. My inspiration for the name sparked as I was reviewing common vocabulary from the South African dialect. I came across "Igwe." Those native to South Africa use the term Igwe when they wish to bestow a high level of respect upon someone or something. I chose this name because I believe that high respect is due to the San tribe for developing the world's first form of perfume in smoke form. Today's standard history school curriculum lacks amazing elements of black culture that should be shared with the world.