Portland Photographer Captures America’s Bedrooms

Portland photographer Barbara Peacock’s captivating project “American Bedroom” is now on display at the Maine Museum of Photographic Arts. Over seven years, she traveled to every state in the U.S. to intimately capture people in their bedrooms, creating a stunning collection of 90 photographs that offer a unique glimpse into American lives.

In these images, you’ll find a woman sitting gracefully in front of her beachfront tent in Kauai, Hawaii, four children in Idaho cuddling with chickens on a quilt-covered bed, and a couple in New Mexico peacefully basking in the afternoon light. Peacock’s lens captures a diverse range of settings, from beds and couches to mattresses on the floor and even outdoor locations like sidewalks and cars.

“This is like anthropology. This is peeking into a life first, without any words, what you could tell about a person in their bedroom without anything else,” Peacock shared about her artistic process. The project began when she looked back into her own bedroom one morning and felt inspired by the intimate view she had of her husband in that quiet moment. This led to her journey across the country to showcase the beauty of everyday people.

Initially showcased in The Guardian, Peacock’s work caught the eye of the Maine Museum of Photographic Arts Director Denise Froehlich, who was captivated by the raw emotion captured in these photos. The museum first displayed Peacock’s early works in 2016 and continued to support her throughout the project’s completion.

Peacock’s approach to photography involves making her subjects feel comfortable and empowered. Instead of dictating poses, she presents them with a collection of paintings to inspire their positioning, allowing them to express themselves authentically. Many subjects chose to be photographed in the nude, a decision they made on their own without pressure from Peacock.

“Every life is important, and some people are unseen. And I think anyone who answered to allow me in their home wanted to be seen,” explained Peacock, emphasizing the significance of this project in shedding light on often overlooked individuals. To fund her extensive travels, Peacock relied on a Getty Award, grants, and even sold her Volkswagen and life insurance, showcasing her dedication to this artistic endeavor.

“American Bedroom” is a powerful portrayal of humanity, showcasing the diverse lives and stories that unfold behind closed doors across America. Visit the Maine Museum of Photographic Arts from Dec. 13 to Jan. 31 to experience this moving and thought-provoking collection for yourself.