The shopping mall as we know it is relatively ancient. An early example was the Arcade of Cleveland, quite beautiful too. Corso Vittorio Emanuele is an outstanding example, though synthetic, it's old enough, and integrated with a faux streetscape, albeit inlaid marble, to have gained authenticity over time. London has several historic arcades. Istanbul's labyrinthine Grand Bazar is essentially a covered soulk. Las Vegas, Tokyo, and the wealthy oil states have their own variations, some including indoor ski slopes. Certainly Disneyland would be considered a specialized shopping mall. Though not an enclosed mall, Two Rodeo, is an outstanding example of a synthetic and surreal shopping environment. Portland has its own variations, including Lloyd Center, considered innovative in its time. Another example is the Rouse development, Pioneer Square. Rouse, founded by James Rouse, later acquired by General Growth Properties, specializes in shopping malls, and has the contacts to bring a certain mix of tenants. In this rough retail environment, some of those carefully planned Pioneer Place spaces are empty, and the artists have moved in.
It is a great location for a pioneering pop up art gallery. And if you can't bring people to the art, bring art to the people! Actually, for a time, the Bellevue Art Museum was in the Bellevue Mall, and I'm sure there are other examples. Organizers Gabe Flores and Gary Wiseman, of Kitchen Sink, among other projects, are the organizers. Their temporary gallery is called Place. A few months ago they showed straight paintings, great installations made of old store fixtures and tormented, I mean, entertained shoppers with performance art in the mall proper. Today they open their next show. They have a big party reception December 4. In the Pioneer Place Mall, bounded by SW Morrison, Yamhill, 5th and 6th. Third floor. 5PM-8 Free
Curated cafe Lyrik has Restored by Patrick Haemmerlein, mixed media. At Lyrik Cafe www.lyrikpdx.com 2035 SE 39th at Lincoln Map
We like Orlo, a place where artists, writers and environmentalists collaborate. Given our special place in the grand Western landscape, it's perfect. They are having a birthday party for themselves - details here. In an interesting mashup, there is a dance party with DJ and the film Rebel Without a Cause. Not sure that works with their brand. 8PM-late $10
