At just 125 square feet of space, the tiny Greenwich Locksmiths in Greenwich Village is the smallest free standing building in Manhattan. In this interesting profile video from NYorkers, meet artist/sculptor/locksmith and owner Phil Mortillaro who has operated the shop for over 34 years.
Trying to shoot in Phil's shop was no easy task. At 125 square feet, it's the smallest free-standing building in Manhattan, and as if that wasn't unique enough, the entire facade is adorned with sculptures that Phil created by welding keys together. He's been involved in the New York art scene since the gritty, underground scene of the 60's and 70's (Max's Kansas City, Andy Warhol times) through the gentrification and rebirth that turned lower Manhattan into what it is now. If you're in the mood for conversation, ask Phil about "the edge" (no, not the guitarist). Guaranteed he'll have a lot to say about the evolution of arts in Manhattan...
via NYorkers
Matt Coneybeare
Editor in Chief
Matt enjoys exploring the City's with his partner and son. He is an avid marathon runner, and spends most of his time eating, running, and working on cool stuff.
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