Frequently, we’re asked about the inspiration behind launching The House of Artem, and we often find it challenging to pinpoint a single defining moment. In truth, it’s the culmination of our life’s journey and experiences.

During my childhood, a significant portion of my time was dedicated to immersing myself in art through literature and music. I often found myself lost in the captivating narratives spun by talented storytellers, allowing me to tune out my surroundings and drift away into their worlds.

After college, I relocated to NYC, where my career in some of the world’s premier fragrance houses began to flourish. While I admired their dedication to craftsmanship, I couldn’t help but notice a glaring absence. Unlike the culturally rich art forms that had influenced my upbringing, luxury fragrances lacked the recognition as an art form in their own right.

My wife, Karimah, has a background in Women’s Studies, with a focus on the images of women in film and media. Her skill in storytelling for film projects was pivotal in establishing the foundational brand identity of The House of Artem.

Our conversations often gravitated towards our passion for fragrance and the significance of telling stories that are frequently overlooked in the world of luxury scents. These discussions sparked our desire to reinvent the narrative behind fragrances, elevating them to the status of other established art forms. This meant not just viewing them as scents, but as powerful mediums for storytelling and cultural expression.

So, what sparked the creation of The House of Artem? It emerged from the urgent need for the art of storytelling in a space where it had been clearly absent before. Our approach to telling culturally relevant stories through scent sparks dialogue and fosters understanding across generations and cultures. We truly believe where empathy is present, anything is possible.

We hope that our fragrances not only evoke emotions but also serve as reminders of the importance of recognizing and celebrating the artistry behind every scent.