Monthly Documentation:
August 2006
So, I did it. I stopped taking mattress photos after September 1st. I feel like I’ve given up an addiction. “Hi, I’m Lisa and I’m a mattress addict.”

You won’t believe how many mattresses I’ve been seeing – last September was my second highest month for the year – and what great patterns and lush quilting they’ve had. Patterns I’ve never seen before… Oh, and I still always carry my camera with me (after all, I take photos of other things too.) “What’s the harm in documenting just this one? It’s so nice!”

But, with the love and support of close friends, I’ve not taken another photo.

“Isn’t it a relief?”

“No, it’s a torment – that’s a REALLY nice mattress! Look at the unusual fabric - and it even has some great stains!”

How long will it take for the urge to lessen, the need to subside? I don’t know. I hope soon – before I see a really incredible mattress and cave in and take another photo.

YEAR-END TOTAL: 223 mattresses. (Average: 2 every 3 days.)

Process: I will photograph discarded dreams in the guise of used mattresses found in the trash during my daily travels about the city.