The Mattress Factory Art Museum: A Pioneer of Contemporary Installation Art
The Mattress Factory Art Museum, located in Pittsburgh, is a renowned contemporary art museum that has made significant contributions to the world of site-specific installation art. With its unique and immersive exhibits, the museum has become a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts from around the world. Founded in 1977 by Barbara Luderowski, the museum has played a pivotal role in the revitalization of Pittsburgh’s art scene.
A Historic Transformation
The museum’s journey began in 1975 when Barbara Luderowski purchased a derelict Stearns & Foster mattress warehouse in Pittsburgh’s Central Northside. Initially, Luderowski used the space as a live-work community for artists and intellectuals. However, her vision soon evolved, leading to the establishment of the Mattress Factory as a non-profit educational and cultural corporation in 1977. This marked the beginning of the museum’s mission to showcase groundbreaking installation art.
Pushing Boundaries through Site-Specific Installations
The Mattress Factory quickly gained recognition for its commitment to site-specific installations, which are artworks created specifically for a particular location. This approach allowed artists to engage with the museum’s unique spaces and challenge traditional exhibition formats. Over the years, the Mattress Factory has hosted renowned artists like Yayoi Kusama, James Turrell, and Greer Lankton, who have created permanent installations that continue to captivate visitors.
Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Dots Mirrored Room
One of the most iconic installations at the Mattress Factory is Yayoi Kusama’s “Infinity Dots Mirrored Room.” Created in 1996, this immersive artwork features a room filled with mirrors and countless polka-dot stickers, creating an illusion of infinite space. Visitors are invited to step into this mesmerizing environment and experience a sense of transcendence.
James Turrell: Danaë
Another notable permanent installation is James Turrell’s “Danaë.” Constructed in 1983, this artwork explores the relationship between light and perception. Visitors enter a specially designed room where a beam of light illuminates particles in the air, creating an ethereal and otherworldly experience. Turrell’s work at the Mattress Factory has been instrumental in transforming the museum’s rooftop into a captivating light art installation, which adds to Pittsburgh’s vibrant skyline.
Greer Lankton: It’s all about ME, Not You
Greer Lankton’s installation, “It’s all about ME, Not You,” showcases the artist’s deeply personal and introspective journey. Lankton, known for her doll sculptures, created a room filled with her own life-sized dolls, each representing different facets of her identity. This installation explores themes of self-expression, identity, and the complexities of human emotions.
Artistic Growth and Expansion
As the Mattress Factory grew in popularity, it expanded its footprint to accommodate more artists and visitors. The acquisition of additional properties allowed the museum to create new gallery spaces and artist residences. For instance, the museum acquired 1414 Monterey Street, which became a new gallery space, and two buildings on North Taylor Street were transformed into artist residences. The Mattress Factory also acquired 505 Jacksonia Street, which now serves as a parking lot for museum visitors, and the adjacent lot is home to Winifred Lutz’s captivating Garden Installation.
A Vibrant Arts Community
The Mattress Factory, along with its neighbors City of Asylum and Randyland, has played a significant role in the revitalization of Pittsburgh’s Northside. These cultural institutions have contributed to the city’s thriving arts community, attracting visitors and fostering a sense of creativity and innovation. The Mattress Factory’s artist residency program and educational initiatives further strengthen its ties to the local community, providing opportunities for emerging artists to showcase their work and engage with a diverse audience.
The Mattress Factory welcomes visitors of all ages to explore its unique and immersive installations. Admission prices vary for different groups, with adults priced at $20 and seniors and students at $15. Children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult, and children under 6 can enjoy free admission. The museum also offers discounted rates for U.S. veterans and residents of specific Pittsburgh ZIP codes. Members and university students from select institutions can enjoy free admission, making art accessible to a wider audience.
Embracing the Future of Contemporary Art
The Mattress Factory Art Museum continues to push the boundaries of contemporary art through its commitment to site-specific installations and engaging experiences. With its diverse and thought-provoking exhibitions, the museum remains a catalyst for artistic growth, community engagement, and cultural revitalization. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a curious visitor, or a local resident, a visit to the Mattress Factory promises an unforgettable journey into the world of contemporary art.
