Immerse Yourself in a Childhood Memory! ‘Goodnight Moon’ Comes to Life at Torpedo Factory Art Center

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The children’s book “Goodnight Moon” has been a go-to choice for bedtime reading for 75 years. Written by playwright Margaret Wise Brown and first published on Sept. 1, 1947, the book’s cover is as instantly recognizable as its words.

A popular installation at the Torpedo Factory Art Center that brings that cover to life is now open until March 13.

The Goodnight Moon Room in Studio 9 was created by Lisa Schmaier and her team of resident artists. The work  of Schumaier, Chris Cardellino, Marcel Artes Deolazo, Judy Heiser, Tracie Griffith Tso, and Jenae Michelle recreates the iconic illustrations of Clement Hurd. Each space feels lived in and as comfortable as home.

“The Goodnight Moon Room is a literary hug for these days when we are all feeling on edge,” said Schumaier. “This brings us back to when we were young and snuggled in bed while a grown-up read us to sleep, or when we were doing the same for our own children.”

At one time, “Goodnight Moon” was included on a list of banned books. The New York Public Library did not put it on their shelves until 1972.

“The room is a safe and cozy space, but also talks about the importance of a free press and a reading public to the strength of our democracy,” added Shumaier.

Schumaier is a long-time artist at the Art Center, who had the idea to build the room primarily from recycled materials. As such, the furnishings came from local recycling businesses, personal collections, or were built from discarded cardboard.

A nod to free speech and creative freedom, the room’s bookshelf contains banned books from local resellers.

The Torpedo Factory Art Center is located at 105 N. Union St. For hours and more information, click HERE.

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