Run of the Mill
Where history meets artistry, and every photograph tells a story.
In the heart of New England, amidst the echo of past industries and the whispers of time-worn structures, our founder, David Lawlor, discovered his calling. It was a serendipitous moment in 2020, upon encountering a historic yet abandoned mill complex. This fascination was soon bound to urgency when, just weeks later, the structure succumbed to flames. This event marked the beginning of a profound mission – to document and preserve the soul of New England's industrial past through the lens of his camera.
David's inspiration ignited further when he stumbled upon "The Run of the Mill" by Steve Dunwell in a local library. This pivotal moment led to the birth of Run of the Mill. Our mission extends beyond mere photography; it's about capturing the essence of New England’s forgotten marvels. David holds high regard for pioneers like Steve Dunwell and Lewis Hine, who have significantly influenced his path with their meticulous documentation of mills and workers. Their dedication fuels our commitment to storytelling through visual art.
Our narrative deepened with the acquisition of a drone in 2020, enabling us to unveil the untold stories of these forsaken places from a new perspective. Today, David resides in downtown Providence, Rhode Island, at the historic Dreyfus Hotel and is a proud resident artist at AS220. His passion for capturing stories was kindled in childhood, nurtured by his grandparents who handed him his first VHS camcorder. From documenting breakdancing friends in high school to exploring narrative filmmaking at LaSalle Academy, David’s storytelling prowess has blossomed in myriad forms – from documentaries to abstract horror films.
David’s educational endeavor at Suffolk University, which culminated in winning the Short Fiction Award for his short film "Aberrant Son," laid the groundwork for his professional ventures. His talents caught the eye of the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council in 2018, marking a significant milestone in his career. Since then, David has woven a rich tapestry of collaborations, including with the National Park Service, Jon Doucette Photography, and Rhode Island Housing, each partnership enriching our narrative and expanding our impact.
At Run of the Mill, we're not just documenting history; we're preserving the legacy and spirit of Rhode Island's Blackstone Valley and beyond. Through documentaries, lifestyle content for brands, and travel chronicles, we're on a relentless pursuit to ensure that the stories of our heritage are never forgotten but instead celebrated and cherished.
Run of the Mill stands today as Rhode Island's premier documentary group, dedicated to preserving the past, celebrating the present, and anticipating the future of this captivating region. Join us on this remarkable journey as we continue to uncover and immortalize the stories etched within New England's landscape.