Lowrider Culture Cruising Through Austin, Texas

Austin's lowrider history:

Austin lowrider Steve Guzman bought his first ride, a candy-apple red Chevy pickup, aged 22, upon returning from Vietnam. Guzman recalls how Austin’s lowrider groups used to have strong rivalries, with different parts of the city firmly divided. However, as Guzman, Medina, and Sanchez aged, the boundaries blurred, and now, they represent the old guard, hoping to pass on their passion to the next generation.

Texas lowrider clubs boom:

The 1960s saw an explosion of lowrider clubs in Texas, two decades after the culture's origins in 1940s California. Austin is now home to nearly 100 lowrider clubs, with a strong Latino community keeping the tradition alive.

"Carros y Cultura" celebration:

Monica Maldonado, an adviser for the exhibit and founder of MAS Cultura, a Latino art nonprofit, helped organize a cruise of around 70 riders from 30 clubs, showcasing their cars and celebrating Latino culture. The event started at the Bullock Texas State History Museum, cruising down to Chicano Park, with lowriders of all shapes and lights, including some showing off the "three-wheel motion."

“But never did we dream that we would be at the Bob Bullock museum,” said Maldonado, reflecting on the significance of the event and the sun glinting off a bubblegum-pink lowrider.

More than just cars:

These lowriders are family heirlooms, works of art, and extensions of their owners' identities and stories. "West Texas" Eddie Velarde, for instance, has been restoring his 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme for 18 years, intending to pass it down to his daughter as a legacy of his hard work and dedication.

Art within art:

The lowrider culture also birthed other artistic creations, such as Trampia Guzman's zoot suits, two of which are now displayed in the Bullock museum's exhibit. One suit, made from golden drapes, is a memorial to his grandmother, who taught him to sew as a child.

A symbol of community and resilience:

Lowriding represents Latino pride, family traditions, and a unique artistic expression. Trampia Guzman's story further illustrates the community aspect, as his wife bought him a lowrider to restore for their 20th anniversary, with his friend, "Gizmo," helping with the restoration.

“This is an art, and it’s miraculous,” Gizmo grinned, indicating a cherry-red cruiser nearby, “That one was struck by lightning. It almost burnt down, but we saved it.”

Carros y Cultura Event Details:

• Date: On display until Sept. 2
• Location: Bullock Texas State History Museum, 1800 Congress Ave.
• Info: An exhibit showcasing Texas' lowrider culture with decorated cars, motorcycles, and Latino artworks.