Ben Kelly

Ben Kelly

It dawned on me as I worked on my sketches: A mall is an attempt at the mystical idea of a cobblestone street in Europe with shops on either side, and everyone leisurely enjoying a nice summer day. The attempt is almost too good in a way. Malls like those at Prudential or Copley almost have TOO much natural light, TOO many beautiful trees, a WATERFALL?? But it's easy to see why it's enticing. Newbury Street seems to be the attempt at this, but in an outdoor setting. In some ways, it gets closer to the goal, and in some ways it does not. With street performers, trees that actually obey the current weather, a breeze, runners, and more, Newbury Street feels more like real life. But as a result, especially this time of year, there are no people sitting outside cafes, and few people stop to look at anything like they can in the mall. Everyone is on a mission (until nice weather at least). With a mall we try to have the best of both worlds, just like those who try to have the city and the country together. I certainly prefer Newbury Street, where I get to at least experience the day, instead of an unsettlingly perfect environment.