Petersen Automotive Museum opens the largest lowrider exhibit in L.A.

A comprehensive lowrider exhibit called "Best in Low: Lowrider Icons of the Street and Show" has now opened at the Petersen Automotive Museum.

The new exhibition features more than 30 lowrider vehicles, including cars, bicycles and motorcycles, as well as custom art and small-scale model lowriders.

This exhibit demonstrates the intricate craftsmanship that goes into creating these mobile masterpieces and highlights the unique identity and creativity of lowrider culture. The display also spotlights the techniques that have become a hallmark of the lowrider scene, including custom paint, engraving, gravity-defying suspension and plush upholstery.

There is artwork and photography from some of the most influential artists from the Chicano Art Movement on display in the Mullin Grand Salon.

Vehicles on display will include one of the world’s most famous lowriders, the 1964 Chevrolet Impala known as "Gypsy Rose." The iconic ride earned its initial notoriety in the 1970s television sitcom “Chico and the Man.” In 2017, Gypsy Rose became the first lowrider to be inducted into the National Historic Vehicle Registry. Other notable lowriders and items of interest include the 1954 Chevrolet Bel Air “Inferno II,” the 1968 Cadillac Eldorado Fleetwood “Helldorado," the 1954 Chevrolet 210 Sedan “Sphinx” from Japan, the 1936 Ford Pickup “Trokita Loca,” the 1968 Schwinn Stingray “Casino Dreamin” and more.

Lowriders emerged on the Southern California automotive scene in the post-war era as unique symbols of personal creativity and cultural identity. Lowriders focus on cruising low and slow, unlike hot rodders. In the late 1960s, lowriders became an expression of cultural pride in Southern California's Chicano communities.

“The lowrider displays are always a fan favorite, and we are excited to open the most comprehensive lowrider exhibit in the museum’s history,” said Petersen Automotive Museum Executive Director Terry L. Karges. “This exhibit celebrates the rich history of lowriders and will give visitors the opportunity to learn about their impact on the automotive world, the culture at large and the history of car customization.”

“Best in Low: Lowrider Icons of the Street and Show” will be on display through April 2025.

To purchase tickets or for more information about the Petersen Automotive Museum, please visit Petersen.org/exhibits.

Open Daily:

10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Check-In closes at 4:30 p.m.

Location:

6060 Wilshire Blvd.

Los Angeles CA, 90036

United States of America