In 2017, Kiko Bailey and The Mystic Museum in Burbank created the all-horror VHS art installation, Slashback Video. The exhibit was designed to resemble a vintage 1980s video rental shop and featured hundreds of original horror VHS tapes, promotional materials, posters, and cardboard cutouts from the era’s most popular films.
The Evolution of Slashback Video
The installation returned in 2018 with “Revenge of Slashback Video,” a similar exhibit with a larger footprint that took over the entire back half of The Mystic Museum, transporting the exhibit into the 1990s. The exhibit expanded to include not only classic horror VHS tapes, but also horror video games and horror LaserDiscs.
In 2020, Slashback Video returned with a third installment with “Slashback Video: The Beginning.” This made the experience even more immersive and added a narrative to the exhibit that built lore around the entire concept of Slashback Video, its mascot Tapehead. It also incorporated more interactive elements and photo opportunities, which have become a staple of The Mystic Museum’s exhibits.
Then, the pandemic hit, forcing the exhibit to shut down just one month after it had opened. The exhibit wouldn’t re-open until 2021, when it returned for a period at The Mystic Museum before finding a permanent location just minutes from the original, where it remained until August 2022.
Introducing Slasher World: The New Permanent Home
Although once a co-owner, Bailey is no longer affiliated with The Mystic Museum, and as a result, it has been three years since we last had Slashback Video. Over the last year, Bailey has hinted at the return of Slashback Video and a new business on social media, highlighting her desire to create something new and special for Los Angeles and the horror community. On August 30, 2025, we’ll finally get to see what that is.
Bailey has announced the grand opening of Slasher World, an all-new business on Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles, which will also serve as the new permanent home of Slashback Video.
“I’ve added A LOT of new rarities to the Slashback collection,” said Bailey in an Instagram post announcing the grand opening. “And I’m also featuring an amazing VHS group art show with nearly 30 artists!”
Slasher World will hold its grand opening on August 30 from 8 p.m. to midnight. Tickets will be just $10 at the door, with partial proceeds benefiting an anti-bullying charity in Los Angeles. Attendees will be treated to complimentary drinks and baked goods from Deadly Sweet. The Frankenstand will also be on hand for all your spooky vegan hot dog needs.
Slasher World is located at 7660 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046.
