Low N Slow
Low N Slow/ 2021-22
My art delves into the Chicanx experience and aesthetic, and this work explores the nuances of lowrider culture in Los Angeles, the interplay of masculinity and femininity, the juxtaposition of chrome and flesh, brotherhood, sisterhood and tradition in car culture. The lowrider has and is an object and symbol for many things including as an outlet for expression, ownership, and creativity in the face of financial constraints while also being a symbol of pride and an example of resourcefulness and beauty in places where these things are limited or unattainable. The lowrider allows the driver to be seen in a society ready to erase and obliterate his or her history and presence. This work is a reflection of California dreaming, oldies blasting on the radio, laughter, brownness, smile now, cry later and the importance of family. Lastly, this work aims to provide reflection, dialogue, and celebration of the complexities inherent in the intersection of Chicanx culture, expression, and my own ever-evolving journey of self-discovery.
Lowrider car culture in Los Angeles is alive and continues to thrive in the city, suburbs and any place where Latinx people gather and live. This painting came about from a wanting to create an artwork where new and old, past and present, the natural and man made exist in the same composition.
My first experiences looking at art that reflected my culture and community came from a Lowrider Magazine someone gave me around the age of 15. There was a section where people could send in their hand drawn art. I remember sitting and copying the images and logos. |
"All the cars in the parking lot low profiling |
Low N Slow, 2021-22 30" x 40"
Are There Bikas in Wonderland? 2023