Adrienne Salinger’s Teenagers in Their Bedrooms series offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of 42 American teens, captured in their most personal spaces. By meeting her subjects in public spaces like malls and gyms, Salinger arranges photo sessions, often hours long, that combine photography and video. Though the resulting images appear casual, they subtly expose the complexities of teen identity formation.

Each photograph reflects a collaboration: Salinger controls the technical aspects, while the teens curate their setting, wardrobe, and poses. These elements convey the emotional tension between autonomy and vulnerability. Details such as rock posters, twin beds, and even cigarettes underscore a struggle for self-expression and control. The candidness in facial expressions, body language, and room decor contributes to a raw, authentic portrayal of adolescence.

Each portrait is accompanied by a short personal narrative, adding depth and context to this powerful visual exploration of a formative life stage.

WORKS
30 or 42 color photographs

DIMENSIONS

43 3/4 x 36 1/4 (inches)

SPACE REQUIREMENTS

Aprox. 200 linear feet for 30 works or 300 for 42 works

INQUIRIES

exhibitions@curatorial.org
626.577.0044