From the Curator: Lowriders
This February, the Kansas City Automotive Museum celebrates the artistry and cultural pride of Lowriders, showcasing both cars and bicycles that embody decades of creativity, craftsmanship, and community. Originating in the 1940s and 1950s, lowriders began as a form of self-expression among Mexican-American youth, transforming cars like Chevrolets and Cadillacs into rolling works of art. From bold hydraulic systems to intricate detailing, each vehicle tells a story of cultural pride and individuality.
On display this month:
- 1948 Chevrolet Stylemaster: A classic icon of the early lowrider movement, featuring sleek design and timeless style.
- 1973 Chevrolet Malibu: Customized to perfection, representing the peak of lowrider artistry in the 1970s.
- 1981 Lincoln Continental: A luxurious addition to the lowrider scene, blending elegance with creative flair.
- 1993 Chevrolet Caprice: A bold showcase of how lowriders evolved through the decades with new styles and techniques.
We’re also featuring lowrider bicycles, a phenomenon that emerged in the 1960s, inspired by their automotive counterparts. These bikes capture the same vibrant spirit with extended frames, dazzling paint jobs, and chrome accents, becoming a beloved part of youth culture and Chicano identity.
Exclusive Posters Available: Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop, where commemorative lowrider posters will be available for purchase. These unique keepsakes celebrate the artistry and history of lowriders and make the perfect addition to any car enthusiast’s collection.
We’re excited to spotlight the Olathe Leadership Lowrider Bike Club, a program empowering 9th–12th grade students in Olathe Public Schools to explore art, culture, and leadership through the lens of the lowrider community. You can support these students by fulfilling items on their Amazon Wish List, providing tools, supplies, and resources to help them bring their artistic visions to life and build confidence for the future.
As we honor the vibrant history of lowriders, we’re also gearing up for March, when Hudson automobiles take center stage. These pioneers of innovation and performance promise another incredible showcase.
Visit us this February to experience the world of lowriders—where cars and bikes transform into rolling works of art—and help support the future of this unique and inspiring culture. Don’t miss it!
Until next month,
Butch Papon