In the Community
Providing access to creative safe-spaces, and our commitment to Pittsburgh’s Northside communities, are the cornerstones of Mattress Factory Outreach Programs. We know art helps us better understand ourselves and our world, and we strive to provide resources for learners of all ages to explore and reflect.
The Mattress Factory has partnered with Pittsburgh Public Schools for many years, with a focus on Northside locations. Through our collaborations, we challenge students to think creatively and explore ideas through a dynamic extension of the public-school curriculum. Our partnerships include a range of in-school and after-school programs tailored to meet the needs of individual schools, teachers, and students.
More at pghschools.org
In 2019, the Mattress Factory joined Light of Life’s Women and Children’s Program for weekly sessions that incorporate art into their healing process from abuse, poverty and addiction. With the incorporation of trauma-informed art processes, we encourage participants to use art and creativity to support self-exploration, reflection and recovery.
More at lightoflife.org
The Mattress Factory cherishes a long-standing partnership with the Gwen’s Girls After School and Summer programs. It is our goal not only to provide fun and thoughtful engagement with art, but to create an environment where collaboration and community thrive.
More at gwensgirls.org
In collaboration with art teacher Lynda Abraham-Braff, the Mattress Factory creates curriculum-themed crossover projects to support students who have experienced barriers to learning. Through activities like making individual safe-spaces and portraying emotions through assemblage sculpture, students use art as an alternative way to process their thoughts and feelings, culminating in a showcase of their work at the museum each year.
More at wesleyfamilyservices.org