In light of COVID-19 and the consequent lockdowns, many found solace in turning to creative forms of expression as an outlet – or simply as a pastime. For Tejumola Butler Adenuga, also known as Butler Archive, immersing himself in his art was an essential way for him to stay inspired.
Now, the London-based multidisciplinary artist and designer is showcasing the work he has created over the span of multiple isolation periods in his latest exhibition, titled New Beginnings.
On arrival at the exhibition, located at Studio 220 in Brick Lane, visitors are surrounded by a diverse display of Black faces and bodies. Born in Nigeria and moving to the UK over a decade ago, Tejumola has long noticed the lack of representation of Black people in the western historical narrative. This observation fueled his drive to produce work that celebrates Black figures and acknowledges their significance.
Tejumola has what can be described as a minimalistic but distinct art style, simply using black ink on white paper or canvas. In creating his artwork, he intentionally eliminates any aspects of the image that he considers ‘excess’ – leaving room to focus entirely on the subject itself. As a skilled artist, Tejumola can dissect the physical personality of objects without removing what he characterises as “elementary aspects of allure” – thus giving audiences the object in its purest form. In doing so, individuals have the freedom to both connect and identify with his art pieces.
Tejumola’s intricate work has already caught the eye of many, leading him to collaborate with a number of brands including Adidas, MTV VMA’s, Uber, The New York Times, and Soho House.
The New Beginnings exhibition will run from 27th May to the 31st, from 11 am to 5 pm with prints available for purchase at the Brick Lane studio.
220 Brick Lane, E1 6SA.
Book tickets here
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