Gloriously subversive art is hiding in plain sight in Secret Mall Apartment

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In the 80s and 90s, numerous shops filled local shopping malls. However, finding a place to live was a bit more challenging, especially at establishments like Neiman Marcus or Corner Bakery. Yet, in a large mall that opened in Providence, Rhode Island in the late 90s, some creative artists secretly transformed an empty corner into covert living quarters. The documentary “Secret Mall Apartment“, directed by Jeremy Workman, follows the adventures of a group led by Michael Townsend, a quirky yet incredibly gifted artist, who observed his hometown being reshaped by gentrification.

Instead of allowing numerous historic buildings to collapse for the sake of corporate advancement aimed at attracting outsiders, Townsend and their team were making a bold statement against their corporate rulers by creating this rundown apartment. Unlike other structures, this was not built for financial profit, but as a place where locals could gather peacefully. From 2003 to 2007, the location known as the Secret Mall Apartment was a marvel. Now, in documentary format, those responsible for it explore this seemingly implausible residence.

In the initial stages of “Secret Mall Apartment”, historical clips showcase a 1990s art exhibit organized by Townsend beneath some Providence train tracks. Amidst the city’s gritty subterranean landscape, Townsend arranged a collection of mannequins suspended high above the ground, displaying them in different positions such as reclining on a couch or raising their hands in what seemed like desperation. This installation was only publicized through whispers among local Providence residents about discovering something extraordinary by following certain pipes. Remarkably, even without much fanfare surrounding it, there was an undeniable sense of wonder attached to this underground project. The recollection of this event in “Secret Mall Apartment” is particularly captivating as the grainy camcorder footage effectively amplifies the quiet, eerie atmosphere of Townsend’s subterranean art exhibit.

Despite dedicating time to this specific event, it clearly showcases that creating a niche in the mall was not an unusual occurrence for Townsend. He was a man passionate about incorporating art into his hometown, and this dedication extended to even altering a modern intrusion on traditional Providence architecture. The film “Secret Mall Apartment” documents this infiltration process through newly released interviews with Townsend and his seven associates, as well as archival footage from early 2000s camcorders, capturing these artists executing their plan. Using a tiny camera hidden in the palm of their hands, they covertly recorded activities such as moving large quantities of cinder blocks without attracting attention.

The tight framing and somewhat unsettling intimacy in these images are unintentional, stemming from the visual constraints of early 2000s home cameras. Moreover, the eerie atmosphere associated with imagery reminiscent of 2002 Sony mini-cameras, popularized by CreepyPasta and other online horror content, further intensifies the suspense as Townsend and his team attempt to evade alarms, guards, or other challenges. The amateurish quality adds authenticity, making viewers feel like they’re part of the action, executing an extraordinary mission that feels more captivating than many modern heist movies, even in a lengthy sequence about smuggling numerous cinder blocks into the mall.

These captivating moments of Townsend and his companions living as Narragansett Bay’s Eleven left me craving even more insights into their adventures. An unexpected ending hinted at how they managed to set up a PlayStation 2 and television in this location, which only fueled my curiosity. I could have used additional tales about the means by which you all obtained electricity. Additionally, I would have appreciated further narratives exploring the diverse emotions of Townsend’s seven companions regarding their shared living situation. Regrettably, the second half of Secret Mall Apartment doesn’t solely focus on its namesake dwelling. Instead, Workman broadens the narrative to reveal that Townsend and his artistic friends were not only creating a unique lifestyle but also making a positive impact on their community.

Instead of going to a local children’s hospital, let me give an example where they would set up tape art in the rooms of ill children. Additionally, you might see footage of this group working on elaborate art projects that honor 9/11 victims. Some of these pieces are quite emotional, especially those designed for sick kids. These segments stand out because they contrast sharply with the real estate developers who constructed that unsightly mall. Unlike these business tycoons who ignored the opinions of Providence residents regarding their capitalist venture, Townsend and his friends are always asking the teenage patients what kind of artwork they’d like on their walls. In this case, the creative process is a collaborative effort, not an one-sided endeavor that enriches the 1%.

The creativity depicted in “Secret Mall Apartment” segments offers a vivid portrayal of human experiences, showcasing original apartment creators moving through a meticulously designed replica of their space. Witnessing individuals such as Adriana Valdez Young traverse this virtual representation is an emotional journey. Workman skillfully and thoughtfully utilizes this setting even in the later episodes of “Secret Mall Apartment”. This setting serves as an ideal platform for recreations reminiscent of Errol Morris’ style, reenacting a pivotal day in Townsend’s life that transpired within this apartment decades ago. Although no camera was present to document this event, Workman and his team can now reconstruct it with the help of this backdrop.

In simple terms, the diverse applications of the false mall apartment within “Secret Mall Apartment” demonstrate how intricately artistic expression is woven throughout this piece. These touches (such as references to past Townsend art exhibits) contribute significantly to a captivating portrayal of numerous spy-themed tales that are already fascinating in their own right. However, at times, the growing scale of “Secret Mall Apartment” poses challenges. For instance, it may lose focus on the unique secretive world that initially inspired this production. Yet, most of the time, “Secret Mall Apartment” is exactly the kind of documentary we should see more of.

As a movie enthusiast, let me share with you an exciting venture that delves into the lives of ordinary folks, daring to convey the message that dreams can become reality in this world. This project, much like art fashioned from humble strands of tape, has the power to challenge gentrification and inspire us all. And yes, it boldly asserts that homes can be found anywhere. To put it simply, as Calvin from the comic strip “Calvin & Hobbes” once said, this lesson, if applied elsewhere in life, is undeniably essential.

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2025-03-21 15:14