I was finishing a Masters at Columbia when Emma was walking around with her mattress. What I remember so poignantly were the wonderful students who walked around with her or even kept up the vigil of carrying the mattress themselves when she could not.
What a fantastic article—so rich with insight! I especially loved how you unpack the emotional layers embedded in the humble mattress. It reminds me of Nan Goldin’s work, where the intimacy of bed scenes powerfully conveys both vulnerability and desire.
Very creative read - loved it !
I was finishing a Masters at Columbia when Emma was walking around with her mattress. What I remember so poignantly were the wonderful students who walked around with her or even kept up the vigil of carrying the mattress themselves when she could not.
I would've helped her!
Apparently she is not an artist anymore, but I thought it was a very poignant performance and protest.
What a fantastic article—so rich with insight! I especially loved how you unpack the emotional layers embedded in the humble mattress. It reminds me of Nan Goldin’s work, where the intimacy of bed scenes powerfully conveys both vulnerability and desire.
Thank you, Sally! Nan Goldin is a great add— I think she gets at the rawness that a bare mattress communicates
Saw an exhibit of Marta Minujin’s work- largely sculptures made of mattresses.
I will add that to the list! It's so interesting that this is really a medium that is dominated by women artists.
Thank you for writing this, it sure brought up old memories and thanks for presenting it on President’s…very appropriate!
Didn't exactly want to post a celebration of presidents, so this was the next best thing....