Iconic Lowriders Spotlighted In Petersen Museum's Largest Exhibit This May

The Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles is gearing up to present its most extensive lowrider exhibit to date, titled "Best in Low: Lowrider Icons of the Street and Show," starting May 11. This exhibit aims to delve into the rich artistry, culture, and history of lowriders by showcasing an array of significant vehicles, custom motorcycles, bicycles, and art that define this unique automotive subculture.

Set within the Mullin Grand Salon, the display will highlight the meticulous craftsmanship and creativity that lowriders are renowned for. Visitors can expect to see an impressive range of techniques that are synonymous with lowrider culture, such as custom paint jobs, detailed engraving, innovative suspension systems, and luxurious upholstery. The exhibit will also feature influential artwork and photography from key figures in the Chicano lowrider art scene.

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Among the vehicles on display is the 1964 Chevrolet Impala known as "Gypsy Rose," which gained fame on the 1970s television sitcom "Chico and the Man" and became the first lowrider to be inducted into the National Historic Vehicle Registry in 2017. Other highlights include three-time Lowrider magazine Lowrider of the Year award winners: the 1958 Chevrolet Impala convertible "Final Score," the 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air "Double Trouble," and the 1958 Chevrolet Impala "Dead Presidents," built by renowned craftsmen Albert De Alba Sr. and Albert De Alba Jr.

The exhibition will also spotlight international influences on lowrider culture with vehicles like the 1954 Chevrolet 210 Sedan "Sphinx," which has played a pivotal role in Japan's lowriding community, and the "Twisted Toy" bicycle, a three-time Lowrider Bicycle of the Year.

Lowriders first emerged in Southern California's post-war era as expressions of personal creativity and cultural identity. By the late 1960s, they had become symbols of cultural pride within various Chicano communities in Southern California. Today, lowriding is not only a significant part of Los Angeles's automotive culture but has also gained popularity across the United States and around the world, with vibrant communities in cities such as Chicago, Kansas City, New York City, and countries including Japan, Brazil, Thailand, and France.

Terry L. Karges, Executive Director of the Petersen Automotive Museum, expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming exhibit, noting its significance in celebrating lowrider history and its impact on car customization culture. Dr. Denise Sandoval, guest curator for the museum, highlighted that this exhibit would explore lowrider craftsmanship like never before while also showcasing its diverse cultural influences.

"Best in Low: Lowrider Icons of the Street and Show" promises to be a captivating exploration of lowrider culture and its contributions to automotive customization. The exhibit opens on May 11 and will run through April 2025. For tickets or more information about this exhibit or other offerings at the Petersen Automotive Museum, please visit Petersen.org/exhibits.