Julia Stoschek's stunning collection of video art shows in downtown L.A. - Los Angeles Times
Los Angeles Times
by Will FenstermakerFebruary 3, 2026
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Julia Stoschek, a prominent German video art collector, is bringing her world-renowned collection to Los Angeles for the first time in a groundbreaking exhibition. The event, titled *“What a Wonderful World: An Audiovisual Poem,”* will take place at the historic Variety Arts Theater in downtown L.A., marking the venue’s return to public use after decades of disuse. This ambitious showcase spans over 120 years of moving images, blending early silent cinema with contemporary video art and redefining how we engage with time-based media.
The exhibition is a collaborative effort between Stoschek, whose private collection of more than 1,000 artworks forms the core of the display, and renowned curator Udo Kittelmann. It features an eclectic mix of iconic films and cutting-edge installations, from George Méliès’ *“A Trip to the Moon”* (1902) to Doug Aitken’s new project *“Howl”*. The show challenges traditional narratives by presenting moving images as a dynamic, interconnected tapestry rather than a linear progression. Visitors are invited to explore the space freely from 5 p.m. to midnight daily, immersing themselves in a labyrinth of sound and visuals that highlight both the beauty and complexity of
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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/3/2026