Dress designed for Miss Velma, 1970s. Donated by Jodi Wille; 2021.13.7
Opening March 2026
Irene Helen Jones Parks Gallery of Art
This new installation—situated within the religion and ritual section of Art of the West—features the preacher and outsider artist Miss Velma. The exhibit will display two custom-made dresses made for and 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 and media-savvy showmanship that have been a hallmark of LA’s new religious movements.
Dress designed for Miss Velma, 1970s. Donated by Jodi Wille; 2021.13.7
The Autry Museum of the American West acknowledges the Gabrielino/Tongva peoples as the traditional land caretakers of Tovaangar (the Los Angeles basin and So. Channel Islands). We recognize that the Autry Museum and its campuses are located on the traditional lands of Gabrielino/Tongva peoples and we pay our respects to the Honuukvetam (Ancestors), ‘Ahiihirom (Elders) and ‘Eyoohiinkem (our relatives/relations) past, present and emerging.
4700 Western Heritage Way
Los Angeles, CA 90027-1462
Located northeast of downtown, across from the Los Angeles Zoo.
Map and Directions
Free parking for Autry visitors.
MUSEUM AND STORE HOURS
Tuesday–Friday 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Saturday–Sunday 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
DINING
Food Trucks are available on select days, contact us for details at 323.495.4252.
The cafe is temporarily closed until further notice.