Open Call: Mattress Factory Artist Residencies

The Mattress Factory is an artist-centered museum, international residency program and renowned producer of installation art. Founded in 1977, the Mattress Factory produces site-specific installations created by artists working in residence. Since then, the Museum has commissioned and presented new installation and performance works by more than 650 artists. The Museum supports established and emerging artists through a program that provides guidance, leadership, resources and opportunities to create artwork that is unconventional, challenging and thought-provoking. The Museum’s flexibility and inventiveness allow artists to respond to developments in technology, explore audience interaction and challenge traditional artistic ideals and practice.

Artists are supported throughout the development of their project, from initial conception through production and installation. Over the 18 to 24 month period before their on-site residency, artists are invited to work closely with the Mattress Factory to develop and plan each project: cultivating ideas, brokering relationships with researchers and collaborators, finding resources and solving technical challenges. The Museum enhances artists’ projects through public and educational programming developed in collaboration with the artist throughout their process.

During the residencies, The Mattress Factory provides technical support before and throughout installation, photo and video documentation, marketing and publicity for the artists. Mattress Factory also offers;

• Honorarium
• A basic production and material budget
• Grant writing for project development
• Transportation to and from Pittsburgh
• Accommodation
• A per diem during on-site installation

Application guidelines

Applications are made via an online form. Artists are invited to submit a portfolio of work and supporting documentation, which will be reviewed by the Artist Review Panel. The deadline for application is 10 December 2021 (4:59 PM).

Artists must submit a single PDF file including (max. file size: 25 MB):

• A 2-page (max.) bio or CV.
• Up to 10 images for consideration. Images must be accompanied by the artwork's Title, Year, Medium, and Dimensions. Please include any notes regarding installation if relevant. For video or audio works, please include a static image in the PDF (you may also include a URL pointing to the file online in the text of the PDF). You may also submit up to 4 supporting audio or video files.
• Artists may also submit supporting documentation, but it is not required (i.e. press reviews or videos of artist talks).
• Please do not include project proposals in your submission.

Visit their website for more information.