what if dead malls were turned into artist hubs?
Sure it would cost a lot, and I don't know what it would take to make this happen, but it would be incredible. The big department stores could be transformed into galleries, or theaters, or auditoriums. Most of the smaller stores could be renovated into different types of studios. Drawing, printmaking, painting, sculpture, fiber arts... Some of these studios could be for public use, others could belong to individual artists or groups of artists. At least one could be dedicated to an immersive installation that changes every month or two (and there'd be interactive installations out in the halls too). Artists and crafters could rent the hall kiosks to temporarily display and sell their work.
There'd be classes and workshops. Some storefronts could belong to small businesses like a bookstore, record store, plant nursery, coffee shop, or (of course) art supply store. The food court would still be a food court.
Oh, and there'd be a sensory room with a skylight and soft furniture and many kinds of swings. Why? Because if swinging helps me think, it might help other creatives think too. Also because swings are awesome.