Mattress Factory Museum, Pittsburgh

The Mattress Factory Museum in Pittsburgh's Central Northside showcases contemporary art, famous for its large-scale installations. Since its inception in 1977, housed in the repurposed buildings of the former Stearns & Foster mattress factory and warehouse, the museum has evolved into a pivotal space for artistic innovation and cultural dialogue. It has earned a reputation for showcasing a wide array of installation art by artists from regional, national, and international backgrounds.

Five years after its establishment, the museum opened its doors to the public with its first exhibition of installation art on May 8, 1982. This marked the beginning of a new era for the museum, focusing on commissioning new site-specific works and presenting them to the widest possible audience. The museum serves not only as an exhibition space but also as a research and development lab for artists, fostering creativity and innovation in the realm of contemporary art.

The museum's commitment to contemporary art is further exemplified by its distinctive approach to maintaining a permanent collection, which includes selected individual installations that contribute to a growing and unique assemblage of works. This approach underscores the museum's role in the preservation and celebration of installation art, providing a dynamic and immersive experience for all visitors.

Attracting approximately 38,000 visitors annually, the Mattress Factory Museum continues to engage and inspire audiences through its commitment to the development, presentation, and preservation of contemporary art. It stands as a testament to the transformative power of art and its ability to connect diverse communities through shared cultural experiences.