Lowrider Culture in the United States

Lowriding is a quintessential Latino/a tradition started by Mexican American communities in the 1940s to assert their space and empower their lives. This unique car-making tradition is infused with Latino/a soul, entrepreneurship, and ingenuity. A mix of innovation and tradition, lowriding is an affirmation of identity and values that have reached beyond the United States to influence popular culture worldwide.

Lowrider Culture in the United States / Cultura Lowrider en los Estados Unidos is a new bilingual (English/Spanish) exhibition from the Smithsonian that highlights a diverse selection of vibrant photographs and prints depicting lowrider culture and iconography while documenting its styles in the United States.

This traveling exhibition is based on research from the Smithsonian and includes objects from lowriding art and trade. Audiences encounter a multifaceted picture of the American experience by learning about the Latino/a community identity through the lens of lowriding and its rich stories of creativity, family, and tradition. Lowrider Culture examines the history of the post-World War II Mexican American community and the cultural expressions of lowriding through technology, innovation, and style.

Lowrider Culture in the United States / Cultura Lowrider en los Estados Unidos is organized by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service in collaboration with the National Museum of American History. The exhibition received federal support from the Latino Initiatives Pool, administered by the National Museum of the American Latino.

Exhibit Associated Events

To further spotlight New Mexico’s rich lowrider legacy, the Farmington Museum will present a companion exhibit showcasing local lowrider art alongside three iconic New Mexico lowrider vehicles, three lowrider motorcycles, three lowrider bicycles, and lowrider Matchbox cars honoring the state’s enduring contributions to the movement.

April 25, 2026 - Park and Chill
Celebrate the opening of the exhibit with a Park and Chill featuring local lowriders, a live band, flamenco dancers, a DJ, food, and craft vendors. Check back for details

May 8th, 2026 | 4pm to 6pm - Custom Lines: Skateboard Pinstriping with Joshua Duarte
Come customize your own skateboard with Joshua Duarte, master of the art of pinstriping! Learn traditionsal lowrider-inspired designs and create a one-of-a-kind piece of art to take home. Cost: $50 | Limit of 10 students

May 15, 2026 | 5pm to 8pm - Lecture, Meet & Greet with Joe Hernandez
Join us for a special evening with Joe Hernandez, the original creator of the iconic "Lowrider Man." In 1978, at just 18 years old, Hernandez created the first lowrider calendar for Lowrider Magazine, launching an image that became a cutural symbol. Joe will share his life story, creative process, and the inspiration behind the artwork, including how the now-famous logo was used throughout the 1980's—and the surprising story of him discovering its widespread use only three years ago. The event includes a lecture, photos, and a meet & greet. Free entry

June 12, 2026 | 12pm to 2pm - Tim Gurule Painting Demonstration
Come to the Farmington Museum for a live demonstration by Timothy Gurule, showcasing the specialized paint styles on cars. He will teach the unique paint mixtures and hands-on techniques behind automotive finishes, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how color, layering, and precision come together to create custom automotive art. Free entry

June 13, 2026 | 12pm to 2pm - Low & Slow: Art, Craft, and Culture of the Lowrider- Female Panel Discussion
Join us at the Farmington Musem for a discussion ladies panel featuring local lowrider owners and artists. This panel offers an inside look into the art, history, and cultural significance of lowriding, straight fom those who live it. Attendees will also learn more about the custom cars on display, including their design, craftmanship, and the personal stories behind them. Free entry

June 20, 2026 | 12pm to 2pm - Low & Slow: Art, Craft, and Culture of the Lowrider- Male Panel Discussion
Join us at the Farmington Musem for a discussion ladies panel featuring local lowrider owners and artists. This panel offers an inside look into the art, history, and cultural significance of lowriding, straight fom those who live it. Attendees will also learn more about the custom cars on display, including their design, craftmanship, and the personal stories behind them. Free entry

July 10, 2026 | 4pm to 6pm - Sharpie Graffiti Class with Luke Paul
Join the Farmington Museum for a Sharpie graffiti class with renowned artist Luke Paul, well known for his artwork around town and at local businesses. $5 per person. All supplies are provided, and space is limited to 10 participants for an intimate, hands-on experience. 

July 24, 2026 | 5pm to 8pm - Lecture, Meet & Greet with Joe Hernandez
Join us for a special evening with Joe Hernandez, the original creator of the iconic "Lowrider Man." In 1978, at just 18 years old, Hernandez created the first lowrider calendar for Lowrider Magazine, launching an image that became a cutural symbol. Joe will share his life story, creative process, and the inspiration behind the artwork, including how the now-famous logo was used throughout the 1980's—and the surprising story of him discovering its widespread use only three years ago. The event includes a lecture, photos, and a meet & greet. Free entry

Photo credit: Marigold Parade Albuquerque, New Mexico, by Gabriela E.Campos