The Petersen Automotive Museum’s largest and most comprehensive lowrider exhibit, “Best in Low: Lowrider Icons of the Street and Show,” is now open in the Mullin Grand Salon. The new exhibition features more than 30 lowrider vehicles, including cars, bicycles and motorcycles, as well as custom art and small-scale model lowriders.
“Best in Low: Lowrider Icons of the Street and Show” highlights the unique identity and creativity of lowrider culture by showcasing the intricate craftsmanship that goes into creating these mobile masterpieces. 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.
Vehicles on display 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 include the 1958 Chevrolet Impala convertible “Final Score” and 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air “Double Trouble,” both three-time Lowrider Magazine Lowrider of the Year award winners, as well as the 1958 Chevrolet Impala “Dead Presidents,” built by Albert De Alba Sr. and Albert De Alba Jr., who are among the most established and respected craftsmen in the lowrider community. The exhibit also features the 1954 Chevrolet 210 Sedan “Sphinx,” an influential car in the Japanese lowriding community, and the “Twisted Toy” bicycle, a three-time Lowrider Magazine Bicycle of the Year, plus numerous other iconic and award-winning lowrider cars, motorcycles, bicycles and more.
“We are proud to present the most comprehensive lowrider exhibit in the museum’s 30-year history,” said Petersen Automotive Museum Executive Director Terry L. Karges. “This exhibition illustrates the significant influence that lowrider culture has had on the automotive world and the remarkable craftsmanship involved in these incredible vehicles.”
To provide a more in-depth look at the people and artistry behind these incredible lowriders, the museum will debut a series of 10 videos on its YouTube channel. Sponsored by Guerrero and Calidad, OPTIMA Batteries and PPG, the first set of videos will detail five of the vehicles featured in the exhibit, while the remaining videos will highlight significant members of the lowrider community.
“Best in Low: Lowrider Icons of the Street and Show” will be on display until April 2025. To purchase tickets or for more information about the Petersen Automotive Museum, please visit Petersen.org/exhibits.
