On the 4th of July, 2023, The Financial Times reported that British-Ghanaian architect David Adjaye has been accused of sexual harassment and assault. Three women who used to work for the internationally renowned architect have made allegations that range from sexual assault to harassment. Adjaye has denied the allegations.
The Financial Times report reads, “But while his work is praised around the world, he also faces claims of serious misconduct. Three women formerly employed by Adjaye, 56, have accused him and his firm of different forms of exploitation — from alleged sexual assault and sexual harassment by him to a toxic work culture — that have gone unchecked for years. The three women say their dealings with Adjaye have disrupted their careers, left them in precarious financial circumstances and caused them serious mental distress.”
Art News reports, “The de Cordova Sculpture Park and Museum in Lincoln, Massachusetts, said it would no longer present a large Adjaye sculpture this fall as planned. Meanwhile, the Counterpublic triennial in St. Louis said it would initiate a community dialogue over another sizable installation by Adjaye included in that show.”
In response to a lengthy investigation by the Financial Times, the architect stated, “I absolutely reject any claims of sexual misconduct, abuse, or criminal wrongdoing. These allegations are untrue, distressing for me and my family and run counter to everything I stand for.”
All three women either worked for or were contracted to Adjaye Associates. Adjaye’s studio was set to design a new Holocaust memorial center in the UK, the Edo Museum of West African Art for Nigeria – home of the Benin Bronzes in Nigeria, and the new national cathedral in Accra, Ghana. Ever since the report of the artist’s misconduct has been released, these projects have been brought to a halt.
