The Kitchen

The Kitchen is a cultural center in Chelsea offering performances, exhibitions, and public programs across multiple artistic disciplines. The facility features performance spaces, screening areas, and gallery sections alongside spaces designed for audience interaction and collaborative artistic work.

The center was founded in 1971 by artists Steina and Woody Vasulka at the Mercer Arts Center before relocating to Chelsea. This move established it as a permanent institution dedicated to supporting experimental artistic practice.

The center showcases experimental work in dance, film, music, and visual arts, supporting artists at all stages of their careers. Both new and experienced practitioners find space here to develop and present their ideas to audiences.

The center operates from Westbeth Artists Housing while its main building undergoes renovation, maintaining its regular program schedule. Visitors should check ahead to learn where specific events are taking place, as locations may vary depending on the type of program.

The center established a Video Viewing Room in 1975 to allow visitors to share their own video productions alongside curated artistic works. This space was innovative for its time and reflects the center's early commitment to video technology and participatory art practices.