Julia Stoschek's Video Art Collection Debuts at the Variety Arts Theater

The Variety Arts Theater in downtown Los Angeles has reopened its doors for the first time in decades, hosting the exhibition “What a Wonderful World: An Audiovisual Poem.” This ambitious showcase, which runs from February 3 to March 20, 2026, features over 120 years of moving images, from early silent films to contemporary video art. Organized by video art collector Julia Stoschek and curator Udo Kittelmann, the exhibit emphasizes the cyclical nature of moving images and their impact on cultural memory.

Closed for decades, a historic L.A. theater reopens for an ambitious late-night video art experience

Visitors to the exhibit are encouraged to explore freely, as there are no fixed seating arrangements or scheduled screenings. The layout allows for a non-linear experience, with iconic works like George Méliès’ “A Trip to the Moon” (1902) and contemporary pieces by artists such as Marina Abramovic and Wolfgang Tillmans interspersed throughout the galleries. Notably, Arthur Jafa’s “Apex” (2013) makes its Los Angeles debut, juxtaposed against Winsor McCay’s “Little Nemo” (1911), creating a dialogue between historical and modern representations of race and culture.

Closed for decades, a historic L.A. theater reopens for an ambitious late-night video art experience

Cinematic montage serves as a guiding principle for the exhibit, with artworks designed to compete for attention. Kittelmann describes the experience as one where audio and visual elements blend, creating “memory triggers” that connect personal and collective experiences. The exhibit’s dissonance and intensity reflect the complexities of daily life, with Stoschek aiming for viewers to leave with a shifted perspective.

Closed for decades, a historic L.A. theater reopens for an ambitious late-night video art experience

The Variety Arts Theater, once a vibrant civic center and vaudeville venue, has been largely dormant since the 1990s. Stoschek, a former trustee of the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), has long sought to bring her collection to Los Angeles, which she regards as a pivotal location for cinematic history. The exhibit not only revitalizes the theater but also challenges the conventional narrative of Los Angeles as a city devoid of historical depth.

Closed for decades, a historic L.A. theater reopens for an ambitious late-night video art experience

While the exhibit has been praised for its innovative approach, some critics argue that the chaotic arrangement may overwhelm visitors, detracting from the individual artworks' impact. The juxtaposition of historical and contemporary pieces raises questions about representation and the viewer's experience, prompting discussions on the effectiveness of such a format in conveying artistic intent.

Closed for decades, a historic L.A. theater reopens for an ambitious late-night video art experience

“What a Wonderful World” stands as a testament to the power of collective viewing in an age dominated by solitary consumption of media. Kittelmann describes the exhibit as “a love letter to time-based artworks” and to Los Angeles itself, emphasizing the importance of shared experiences in understanding the evolving landscape of video art.

Closed for decades, a historic L.A. theater reopens for an ambitious late-night video art experience

• “They shape how we think, how we communicate. They are the major artistic language of our time.” — Julia Stoschek, Video Art Collector

Closed for decades, a historic L.A. theater reopens for an ambitious late-night video art experience

• “The world itself is loud and overwhelming,” — Udo Kittelmann, Curator

Closed for decades, a historic L.A. theater reopens for an ambitious late-night video art experience

• “It’s a love letter to time-based artworks,” — Udo Kittelmann, Curator

Closed for decades, a historic L.A. theater reopens for an ambitious late-night video art experience

This exhibition not only showcases Stoschek’s extensive collection but also redefines the role of the Variety Arts Theater within the cultural fabric of Los Angeles.

Closed for decades, a historic L.A. theater reopens for an ambitious late-night video art experience