TOMÁŠ RIC FOR FASHIONMAP

Some conversations are quickly forgotten, while others deserve to be remembered. The one conducted by journalist and fashionmap.cz editor Magdaléna Čevelová with Tomáš Ric a few weeks ago belongs to the second category. It’s a long read, yet it raises questions that have never been asked before. If you’re looking to delve deeper into the world of Pigmentarium, consider this your well-lit path forward.



TOMÁŠ RIC IN CONVERSATION WITH MAGDALÉNA ČEVELOVÁ, FASHIONMAP.CZ

Behind every niche fragrance by Pigmentarium lies an emotion, a memory, or a thought. Since 2018, the brand has introduced eight perfumes. When its founder, Tomáš Ric, became the first in the Czech Republic to develop niche fragrances, few could envision what Prague might smell like. That has since changed—and beyond that, Pigmentarium has carried this olfactory experience far beyond its borders. Today, the Czech perfume house can be found in 23 countries, including Hong Kong, Kuwait, and Iceland. "I love traveling abroad with something truly local. I always want to bring a piece of artistry, craftsmanship, and vision with me," Tomáš shares enthusiastically. As our conversation unfolds, I realize it’s been a long time since I’ve spoken with someone who talks and approaches their craft with such passion, excitement, and humility.


Tomáš, which fragrance are you wearing today?
None, but if I were to choose one, it would be Erotikon. It’s comforting, pleasant, and warm. The sky is overcast today, so it feels just right.


To date, you’ve launched eight perfumes. Which part of the process do you enjoy the most, and which the least?
It might sound like a cliché, but I genuinely enjoy the entire process. Whether it’s discussing budgets with our financial team, figuring out production logistics, or shaping a campaign from the ground up. I also love those first meetings with the perfumer—choosing the right ingredients to bring our vision to life.


Do you have any rituals when developing a new fragrance?
I don’t have a ritual. However, I do have a favorite photographer and philosopher, Wolfgang Tillmans. In one of his interviews, he describes how you can’t isolate yourself in a bubble and keep returning to the same place for inspiration. In today’s world, understanding trends and being aware of what’s happening globally is essential if you want to create something truly new and successful. Engaging with the world—talking to people, visiting galleries, traveling—is how I find that initial spark of an idea, which I can then build upon with an open mind.


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