Smithsonian Exhibition Rolls Out 80 Years of Lowriding History and Culture

‘Corazón y vida’ Explores Mexican American Identity, Artistry and Community Through Iconic Cars

WASHINGTON — A new exhibition is celebrating the vibrant artistry and rich history of the lowrider tradition, showcasing how these customized cars became a powerful symbol of Mexican American and Chicano culture and identity. Titled Corazón y vida: Lowriding Culture, the bilingual display combines artistic expression, technological innovation and deeply personal storytelling.

The exhibition delves into the 80-year history of lowriding, which emerged in Mexican American communities following World War II. While the U.S. embraced car culture as a sign of the American dream, lowrider cars became a unique source of pride and a way of creating community through creativity, family, and tradition.

Classic Impalas at the Heart of the Show

The exhibition immerses visitors in the culture with photographs, graphics, and historic objects, including a pinstripe tool kit, car club clothing, and trophies. Many materials, including newly acquired photos and posters from Latina/o photographers, are drawn from the Smithsonian’s own collection.

Featured photographers include Gabriela Campos, Amanda López and Wendy Random. A feature article in the Santa Fe New Mexican notes that Campos has gained attention for her images of lowrider culture in recent years.

At the center of the exhibit are two legendary vehicles on loan: classic Chevy Impalas that helped define the movement:

• The 1963 “El Rey”: Built by three generations of the same family, this vehicle features striking murals and candy red paint.
• The 1964 “Gypsy Rose”: Instantly recognizable for its signature hand-painted roses, this car is credited with putting the car culture into the public imagination and is considered one of the most iconic lowriders ever created.

Today, lowrider culture has extended across the U.S. and beyond, influencing popular culture worldwide.

“It’s definitely a passion for a lot of people,” Californian Sandy Avila tells Smithsonian Magazine. “You really have to love it, because it’s a lot of work, it’s a lot of money, it’s a lot of dedication—there’s a lot of blood, sweat and tears that people put into their cars.”

Lowriding Takes to the Road

For those outside the D.C. area, a traveling version of the exhibition, Lowrider Culture in the United States/Cultura Lowrider en los Estados Unidos, will bring the experience to communities across the country.

Beginning in September 2025 and running through 2029, the touring exhibit will feature a selection of photographs, prints, and objects representing lowriding art and trade. Confirmed future venues include Anaheim, California; Port Hueneme, California; Farmington, New Mexico; Tucson, Arizona; Fresno, California; Overland Park, Kansas; and Scottsdale, Arizona.

Details and schedules for the traveling exhibition can be found on the official site.