"This exploratory study examines the construct of the lowrider car as part of a barrio aesthetic of U.S. Chicanas and Chicanos, and this material component of the culture is equally part of the social identity of this cultural community of United States. Within Chicana/o communities, lowrider cars are built and designed as symbolic meaning [systems] within the sub-populations of U.S. Chicana/o citizens. This is especially true for those who participate in the ritual of displaying their... Show more"This exploratory study examines the construct of the lowrider car as part of a barrio aesthetic of U.S. Chicanas and Chicanos, and this material component of the culture is equally part of the social identity of this cultural community of United States. Within Chicana/o communities, lowrider cars are built and designed as symbolic meaning [systems] within the sub-populations of U.S. Chicana/o citizens. This is especially true for those who participate in the ritual of displaying their vehicle creations. In order to participate in the ritual of riding in cars or bicycles that have been re-configured to conform to lowriding culture and ridden in appropriate public events and locations, requires full knowledge of particulars and parameters of Chicano/a culture and the lowriding component thereof. Nevertheless, not everyone subscribes to this expressive cultural behavior as not everyone engages in the lowriding ritual and/or embraced this type of modified car as a symbol of Chicana/o culture. This paper reports on some ten (10) individual interviews conducted with Chicanas/os who have built lowriding cars. In addition, this research included systematic observations of two car shows and a content analysis of popular media. The research findings suggest three appropriate and salient themes: A Socialized Practice, an Aesthetic Identity, and Representation of Aesthetics. I give these the respective names; 'I Just Grew-Up with It,' 'It's Part of My Culture,' and 'I'm Mexicano Regardless.'"--Page ii. Show less
