Museum Mania: Exploring Pittsburgh's Mattress Factory Museum

Essential Information

• Location: 500 Sampsonia Way, Pittsburgh, PA 15212
• Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm
• Admission: $20 for adults, $15 for students and seniors, free for children under 12
• Website: https://mattress.org/

Overview

The Mattress Factory Museum in Pittsburgh is a unique and fascinating destination that showcases contemporary art in a former mattress factory. Founded in 1977 by Barbara Luderowski, the museum has been a pioneer in supporting emerging artists and innovative exhibitions that explore the boundaries of art.

With over 70 site-specific installations, the Mattress Factory Museum offers a truly immersive experience for visitors. The installations are constantly evolving, with new works being commissioned and existing works being updated. As a result, there is always something new to see and experience at the museum.

Exhibitions

The Mattress Factory Museum has a wide variety of exhibitions on display, including:

• The Dream Machine: A collection of interactive installations that explore the nature of dreams and the subconscious.
• The Palace of Shadows: A dark and atmospheric installation that uses light and sound to create a surreal and immersive experience.
• The Infinity Room: A room filled with mirrors that creates an infinite and disorienting effect.
• The Weather Room: A room that uses humidity, temperature, and light to create a constantly changing environment.
• The Womanhood Room: A room that celebrates the female body and experience.

Educational Programs

The Mattress Factory Museum offers a variety of educational programs for all ages, including:

• Guided Tours: Available daily, guided tours provide an in-depth look at the museum's exhibitions and history.
• Art Classes: The museum offers a variety of art classes for adults and children, including painting, sculpture, and printmaking.
• Lectures and Workshops: The museum hosts lectures and workshops by artists, curators, and other professionals in the art world.

History

The Mattress Factory Museum was founded in 1977 in a former mattress factory in Pittsburgh's North Side neighborhood. The museum's mission is to support emerging artists and provide a platform for innovative and experimental art. Over the years, the museum has become a nationally recognized center for contemporary art.

Impact

The Mattress Factory Museum has had a significant impact on the Pittsburgh art scene. The museum has helped to launch the careers of numerous artists, and its exhibitions have attracted visitors from around the world. The museum has also been a catalyst for the revitalization of the North Side neighborhood.

Future

The Mattress Factory Museum is planning a major expansion in 2025. The expansion will add a new wing to the museum, which will house additional exhibition space, a library, and a café. The expansion will also allow the museum to offer more educational programs and services.

FAQs

• What is the cost of admission to the Mattress Factory Museum?
  Admission is $20 for adults, $15 for students and seniors, and free for children under 12.
• What are the hours of operation for the Mattress Factory Museum?
  The museum is open Tuesday-Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm.
• Does the Mattress Factory Museum offer guided tours?
  Yes, guided tours are available daily and are included with the price of admission.
• Is the Mattress Factory Museum accessible to wheelchair users?
  Yes, the museum is accessible to wheelchair users.
• Can I take photographs inside the Mattress Factory Museum?
  Yes, photography is permitted within the museum.

Customer Reviews

"The Mattress Factory Museum is a must-see for any art lover. The installations are unique and thought-provoking, and the staff is very knowledgeable and friendly." - TripAdvisor

"I had an amazing time at the Mattress Factory Museum. The exhibitions were so immersive and engaging, and I learned a lot about contemporary art. I would definitely recommend this museum to others." - Yelp

"The Mattress Factory Museum is a great place to spend an afternoon. The installations are fun and interactive, and the staff is very helpful. I would definitely come back again." - Google Reviews

Additional Resources

• Mattress Factory Museum website
• Pittsburgh Magazine article on the Mattress Factory Museum
• TripAdvisor reviews of the Mattress Factory Museum