The Mattress Factory, a contemporary art museum and residency program in Pittsburgh, has named Anthony Elms as its artistic director, beginning next February.

At the Mattress Factory, Elms will oversee the institution’s entire artistic programming, from its exhibitions and commissions to its residency program to public engagement and interpretative strategies. His appointment, after a national search, comes as the museum prepares for its 50th anniversary in 2027.

“Anthony is the perfect fit for this moment at the Mattress Factory,” David Oresick, the museum’s executive director, said in a statement. “His artist-first approach, his deep experience across the art world, and his history of producing exhibitions that resonate widely while remaining deeply attentive to the artists’ visions make him an exceptional addition to our team. We are thrilled to welcome him and excited for the new energy, care, and creative ambition he will bring to our program.” 

Elms has a proven track record in both the institutional and commercial sectors of the art world. Shortly after joining the Institute of Contemporary Art, Philadelphia in 2011 as an associate curator, Elms was named a cocurator of the 2014 Whitney Biennial, the last iterat...