The world of lowriders—fixed up, cherried-out, shiny, classic, early day cars and trucks—will hit center stage Sunday in Watsonville with the opening reception of the latest art exhibit, “More Than Cars: Celebrating Lowrider Culture,” at the Pajaro Valley Arts – Porter Building.
The show is in tandem with the ongoing 12th Annual Watsonville Film Festival (which runs through June 30).
The landmark 2009 film, “La Mission,” was the fuel for the art exhibit, said Consuelo Alba, Director of the Watsonville Film Festival (WFF) and Chair of the Arts Council Santa Cruz County.
“WFF is on a mission to showcase local talent and artistry through film, music, visual and performing arts. The art exhibit reflects how lowrider culture is a symbol of pride and ingenuity that brings generations of families and the community together,” she said.
Judy Stabile, Board Treasurer of Pajaro Valley Arts, added: “More than 50 artists and Lowriders have been attending the exhibit planning meetings. I’ve never seen this kind of enthusiasm.”
Members of five local car clubs designed their own displays: the Watsonville Riders, Classic Memories, Family First, the Watsonville Impalas, and Killer Klowns, along with women Lowriders.
Also included in the show are photos by Mary Altier, which stem from a 1986 Register Pajaronian article, Cruising in Style, about lowriders in the Pajaro Valley.
“You will see amazing artwork submitted by 51 artists, students, and community members representing a variety of media, including photography, drawing, printmaking, painting, mixed media, ceramics, and sculpture.” Stabile said.
The show includes works by printmaker Juan Fuentes, muralist Guillermo “Yermo” Aranda, and photographer and graphic artist Tyrone “Malow” Diaz.
The opening reception will be on Sunday, Mar. 10 from 1-4pm followed by a cruising event from 4-6pm. Live music by Lowrider Phillip Retamoza. Additionally, the City of Watsonville will present a proclamation to the participating Lowrider clubs honoring their history of volunteering and contributing to the community. The free exhibit will also feature public events including video screenings, panel discussions, art activities for youth, and more car shows.
The public can visit the exhibition Wed.-Sun. from 11am to 4pm.For information on the Watsonville Film Festival, visit watsonvillefilmfest.org/wff2024.
