Miss Velma in the City of Angels
Opening March 21, 2026
Irene Helen Jones Parks Gallery of Art
About the Exhibition
This new installation—situated within the "Religion and Ritual" section of the ongoing Art of the West exhibition—features the preacher and outsider artist Miss Velma. The exhibition will display a custom-made dress worn by Miss Velma, who was a co-founder of the Universal World Church in Los Angeles. Famous for her theatrical sermons that captured the imagination, Miss Velma is an example in a long line of charismatic individuals with media-savvy showmanship who have been a hallmark of LA’s new religious movements.
Highlights
Floor-length red dress worn by Miss Velma, co-leader of the Universal World Church, Los Angeles, 1970s. Created by an unknown Universal World Church congregation member for Miss Velma's televised appearances. Acetate, polyester, and sequins. Gift of Jodi Wille; 2021.13.6
Floor-length red dress [back view] worn by Miss Velma, co-leader of the Universal World Church, Los Angeles, 1970s. Created by an unknown Universal World Church congregation member for Miss Velma's televised appearances. Acetate, polyester, and sequins. Gift of Jodi Wille; 2021.13.6