Speaking out

I am Barbara Luderowski’s daughter. I have watched her and Michael Olyjnik build the Mattress Factory from nothing 40 years ago into a place that artists are dying to have the opportunity to work in. A place where people come from around the world to see the work they’ve made possible. Where artists from countries that suppress their voices come to speak as loudly as they want.

How is it possible that one person and her unsubstantiated story (Sept. 29, “The Art of War”) be allowed to destroy such a nourishing, collaborative and tireless advocate for artists and creativity such as Mr. Olyjnik and the institution that he and my mother fought so long and hard to build?

Yes, what I see is a brilliant institution driven by boldness and risk-taking swiftly turning into an uninspired, unsupported hospital of an “art gallery.” The Mattress Factory board has allowed the #MeToo movement to bring one of the most supportive arts environments to its knees.

I believe art and artists can serve as the conscience of a society, but only if their voices are heard, and I am calling for artists and other kindred spirits to stand up against this unjust scenario and support bringing Mr. Olyjnik back from exile. I am calling on you — before it is too late — to please speak out in any way you can on behalf of both Ms. Luderowski, the Mattress Factory’s pioneering founder, and Mr. Olyjnik, its only remaining true visionary.

TAYA LUDEROWSKI-ROSS

Champaign, Ill.