Tucked quietly in the neighborhoods of Pittsburgh’s lower North Side, The Mattress Factory is one of Pittsburgh’s most playful, funky art museums. This family-friendly museums hosts a variety of engaging, immersive exhibits of contemporary art.
Unlike the Children’s Museum or Carnegie Science Center, The Mattress Factory is not intended for an age specific group- rather, it appeals to people of all ages. While at times it can be eccentric and odd, I think the space gives children a great opportunity to give their own interpretations and views on exhibits.
I think most kids (and adults) will thoroughly enjoy the experience.
Gritty History
The Mattress Factory building actually came from humble beginnings as, in fact, a Mattress Warehouse. In 1975, Barbara Luderowski acquired the Stearns & Foster Mattress Warehouse and two years later the space was transformed into The Mattress Factory- a non-profit educational and cultural organization.
Since 1977, the museum has presented and commissioned new installation and performance works from more than 650 artists. They continue to make positive impacts in the revitalization of the North Side through rehabilitating properties, bringing in tourism and developing the local workforce.
Must See Displays
There’s so much to see and do while you’re there, but these exhibits were a few of our favorite.
Repetitive Visions by Yayoi Kusama (Permanent Installation)
Whenever I think of the Mattress Factory, the picture of fire-engine red polka-dotted manikins and mirrors come to mind. When you enter the room and close the door behind you, the unique infinity mirror style display captures every angle of the room.
…Everything but the Circus by Benjamin Sota (Temporary display through May 31st, 2015)
I would imagine this circus themed exhibit would be a fan favorite amongst most kids. This playful exhibit that invites guests to interact, explore and actually be part of the fun- pedal a bike, ride a scooter, walk on a balance beam and sit on the trapeze swing.
4 Lydia Model City by Ryder Henry (Temporary display through May 31st, 2015)
This installation was one of my personal favorites. The “Jetson”-esque model city included floating buildings, trams and a variety of architectural styles within the buildings. On the opposite side of the room there were large glowing rings that looked like a futuristic space station.
Trace of Memory by Chiharu Shiota (Temporary display through May 31st, 2015)
If you walk outside of the main building and head down the street, you’ll find an additional space that is home to the Trace of Memory exhibit. installed by about a dozen people in a little less than 2 weeks, this site-specific exhibit features black yarn strewn throughout a handful of rooms with everyday objects intertwined.
Planning a Visit
Are you ready to plan a visit to The Mattress Factory with your family?
Mini-Factory Kids’ Workshop
If you’ve never been to the museum before, you may want to sign up for one of their free Mini-Factory classes. This hands-on class program is designed for children ages 2-5 years old and their caregivers to explore themes through story-time, installation exploration and collaborative crafts/projects. Classes occur every second and fourth Saturday of the month from 10-11am (spaces fill quickly so please register in advance).
- Saturday, December 13 from 10-11am: LIGHT
- Saturday, December 27 from 10-11am: COLLECTIONS
- Saturday, January 10 from 10-11am: PATTERNS
- Saturday, January 24 from 10-11am: MOVEMENT
- Saturday, February 14 from 10-11am: SOUND
Afterwards, be sure to stay and explore the museum!
More Info
Mattress Factory | 500 Sampsonia Way, Pittsburgh, PA 15212
Phone: (412) 231-3169 || Website: http://www.mattress.org/ || Hours: Tuesday-Saturday: 10 am – 5 pm; Sunday: 1 – 5 pm; Closed Mondays || Admission: Adults $15, Seniors $10, Students $10
While you’re in the neighborhood you can check out Randyland, the National Aviary or the Children’s Museum.