Abstract

AJO, Mirna. The presence of women in the lowrider phenomenon. Zincografía [online]. 2023, vol.7, n.13, pp.68-100.  Epub Aug 04, 2023. ISSN 2448-8437.  https://doi.org/10.32870/zcr.v7i13.198.

On the border between Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, and El Paso, Texas, there was a very particular relationship between individuals and modified objects known as lowrider, which dates back to approximately 1930, although then it was produced by hand. It is about the tradition of transforming mechanics, hydraulics, structure, upholstery and aesthetics of automobiles, while respecting their original parts. Lowriders belong to the Chicano community and share a passion for this type of vehicle, which is why they organize celebrations between car clubs to exhibit them already transformed. Men outnumber women lowriders, who have been around since the start of this tradition, even starting their own independent clubs in the mid-1970s. In an ethnographic and participant observation exercise, testimonials were collected from some lowriders, who actively participate in the different transformation processes, from ventilation and upholstery to the design and painting process, who expressed their desire for individual recognition and gender as it is an important part of this lifestyle. This academic exercise allowed us to discover that the presence of women has been a pillar in this activity, and that they are looking for their own place in the lowrider world.

Keywords : women; lowrider; lifestyle; transformed object; nostalgia.

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