The Five at Five: Tejumola Butler Adenuga

11 Feb 2022

From hidden-gems to places to people-watch, from bookshops to beauty spots – here is some inspiration, celebrating the independents in our local neighbourhoods around the world.

This week’s selection has been curated by Tejumola Butler Adenuga, the Nigerian-born, London-based multidisciplinary artist and designer. His work has an uncompromising attitude that achieves technical brilliance in a minimalistic art form.

Tejumola Butler Adenuga

Alongside his art practice, Tejumola’s vision is to create objects and spaces that channel individual identities. In the past, he’s even acted as art director for notable musician Tinie Tempah, as well as collaborated with the likes of adidas, New York Times, Soho House, The British Fashion Council and The New Yorker, to name a few. And interestingly, as of today, over 450+ people have Butler’s work permanently tattooed on their skin.

Tejumola Butler Adenuga

FOR FOOD
Taro in Soho – it’s owned by a lovely man who has an incredible story about fleeing from Japan during the war. If the restaurant isn't busy he'll be happy to walk you through his family history from the sublime photographs that adorn the walls. Try the chicken teriyaki don or get a bento box – you get a taste of everything.”

Tejumola Butler Adenuga

FOR PEOPLE-WATCHING
“My favourite place to watch people is the view from my apartment in Hackney Wick, especially the construction workers as the area is being developed heavily. Also fun to spot all the vehicles and equipment and daydream about an alternative career as a construction worker.”

Tejumola Butler Adenuga

FOR MUSIC
Steam Down @ Matchstick Pie House, I think, is the best place to listen to alternative jazz in London. Feels like church.”

Tejumola Butler Adenuga

FOR WELLNESS
“Favourite wellness spot would be Cowshed, Primrose Hill. It's a whole underground oasis and the staff are super nice.”

Tejumola Butler Adenuga

FOR SHOPPING
“Amsterdam. There are so many gems out there. OALLERY Store has all the streetwear gems, I think it's the Netherland's version of Dover St.”