THE RITUAL OF SCENT
OLA Szwałek
Ola (full name Aleksandra) is a Polish cook based in Japan. She lives in Tokyo but in her practice she travels around the country, working on local and diverse terroir - based projects.
Ola works with communities in different prefectures of Japan, where she tries to include as much craft traditions in her work. This year, her work has mostly been centred around clay, volcanic soil, and ashes — exploring everything from the texture, smell, influence on taste, and their role in preserving and cooking. All of which shape the visual experience of the events she takes part in creating.
I choose natural because —
"I’ve been raised this way. I think all things we are surrounded by have such an impact on us and I will fight to protect that purest version of myself in all the meanings. I believe natural is the only way to do so."
"My favourite Abel scent is Black Anise."
I CREATE —
"Dishes that I hope make you feel nostalgia, release and on the other hand surprising stimulation. Experiences of feeling invited for a completely new journey through something actually well known and familiar."
I'M READING —
"50 Sounds by Polly Barton — a book I borrowed from my friend Delphine — A witty treatise about learning, speaking and living in other language.
On Time and Water by Andri Snær — This book is a constant read since I got it two years ago. I’ve been buying it for all my friends, I really think everyone should have one. I’m going back to its thought and chapters and travel places with it - both in space and time.
And Timefulness by Marcia Bjornerud — A response to my geeky tendencies - a book about how we perceive time, how we see our place in it, through the science of rocks and stones."
TO ME RADICAL THINKING IS —
"Starting from the core intention of our actions and filtering it through kindness and vulnerability.
I think everything that comes from good intentions which usually stands for curiosity which leads to discoveries and knowledge or sharing and service to others - a will to impact and improve the way we see the world, and when its manifested in a kind way is just such an attractive direction of our growth.
It embraces tenderness and by that also presence with which we do things."
INSPIRED ME TO THINK DIFFERENTLY —
"My longtime friend Baya. She is psychology student but even before- nothing ever stimulated my brain and perspectives as conversations we had over the years.
It's the best feeling in the world to feel like you are winding your perspectives on things."
I TAKE CARE ON MYSELF BY —
"Cooking at least one meal at home everyday, And cooking just for myself. Sometimes a feast."
