Unveiling “Secret Mall Apartment”: A Captivating Exploration of Artistic Obsession
Filmmaker Jeremy Workman has a knack for chronicling the hearts and minds of those who dare to chase their obsessions. From the extraordinary individual attempting to stroll every street in New York City in The World Before Your Feet to the gifted domino artist meticulously crafting her masterpieces in Lily Topples the World, his documentaries have always hovered around the theme of fixation. In his latest masterpiece, Secret Mall Apartment, Workman plunges us into the captivating world of a group of artists who spent four transformative years converting a forgotten alcove within a Providence shopping mall into a remarkable 750 square-foot apartment.
The Architects of Creativity
Within this underground universe, eight artists and friends collaborated, but it’s Michael Townsend who stands out as the visionary leader of the project. Through a skillful mix of archival footage from the early 2000s and candid one-on-one interviews, Secret Mall Apartment invites viewers to witness the project’s inception – from an initial flicker of inspiration in Townsend’s mind to a thriving community art space.
Townsend recalls observing the construction of the Providence Place Mall, a project polarizing to local residents; some viewed it as revitalization, while others considered it a harbinger of doom. Intrigued by an odd, abandoned stretch of the mall, Townsend and his friends embarked on a bold adventure, creating a secret sanctuary. They stealthily transported cherished items such as a sofa, curio cabinet, dining table, coffee table, Playstation, and even their own door with a functioning lock into their hidden haven.
Beyond a Prank: A Deeper Message
At first glance, you might think you’re watching an engaging documentary about a whimsical prank. However, Workman skillfully layers the narrative with serious themes – touching on gentrification, the significance of impermanent art, and a critique of the privilege that allowed the group to operate undetected so long.
As the story unfolds, Secret Mall Apartment transcends its initial premise to delve into Townsend and his friends’ other impressive artistic endeavors, including tape art graffiti in a children’s hospital and poignant 9/11 memorials scattered across New York. The group operates as what one participant aptly describes as an “elite strike force team of empathetic artists.”
This reveals an entire universe of possibilities – showcasing the wonderfully uplifting spirit of these creators, juxtaposed with the intense commitment (some might call it monomania) they display towards embracing the philosophy of “life as art, art as life.”
An Engaging Cinematic Experience
Secret Mall Apartment stands out not just as a film, but also as a reflection of the power of community, creativity, and the human spirit. It masterfully balances light-heartedness with profound insight, making the documentary both a fun watch and a thought-provoking experience.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a documentary lover, or someone who appreciates stories about unconventional lifestyles, Secret Mall Apartment promises to captivate you. It encourages us to reflect on the spaces we inhabit and the art that flourishes in the most unexpected places.
Check out the trailer for Secret Mall Apartment here:
As you immerse yourself in this extraordinary story, you’ll understand how a hidden apartment in a shopping mall became a beacon of creativity and expression. Don’t miss the chance to explore this remarkable documentary that challenges our perceptions of art, privilege, and community engagement.
