The Five at Five: Simon the Last

21 Jan 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.

five at five

This week’s selection has been curated by Simon the Last, a South London-based visual artist and designer. His art practice explores the ideas of generational time, new luddism, and human-centred futurisms, and recently he collaborated with us at Appear Here to display his most recent installation, WE WILL STILL BE HERE.

five at five

FOR COFFEE
“Lerryn’s in Peckham (RIP) was my favourite place in the world. The staff would down-tools to dance to bops whenever they came on. The owner also offered free tea and toast to anyone who needed it - a real community spot.

“As for current places, I love both Goodcup or Old Spike for coffee. Also Acid Cafe in Madrid is a great place to work remotely.”

five at five

FOR PEOPLE-WATCHING
“Any gay bar or club night; we are a captivating wildlife and it’s a joy to see the different parts of the community come together and celebrate each other.

“Unfortunately many of my favourite places have been forced to close as the wave of gentrification sweeps through every corner of London. Dalston Superstore, Vogue Fabrics, R & She, The Queen Adelaide... some of my favourite ones that persist.”

five at five

FOR MUSIC
“For music, it has to be Corsica Studios or The Jazz Cafe.

“If books over music, it would have to be Artwords Bookshop ofc.”

five at five

FOR WELLNESS
Manifesto hair salon: Mikey Pearson has been cutting my hair for over a decade and is a real perfectionist. Also Shunji - the perm masters.”

five at five

FOR SHOPPING
“London for thrift, vintage and pre-owned stores... Holdrons Arcade in Peckham is great for a selection of independent local businesses, and I love pottering around Hackney Flea Market when it’s in town.

“I’m also a big fan of charity shops and will probably seek them out first if I’m in a new place - they’re a treasure trove for second hand vinyl. Crisis and Traid are also great for clothes.”