Latino/Chicano, Lowrider and Gangbanger T-Shirt Art Collection

The collection consists of display samples of Latino, Chicano, lowrider and gangbanger t-shirt designs, decals, patches, and cards from the 1980s to the 1990s. The display samples are printed on off-white or black tyvek and heat transfer sheets; many of the tyvek samples are in the shape of t-shirts. Also included are heat transfer patches, decals, and greeting cards. The samples and items are in both color and black and white. Some of the designs were supplied by Francisco's Exotic T's, Photo-Lith International, and SSI. Only two designs have identified illustrators: "Zaraic" and "Clapez". Many of the designs draw on gang-related street art forms--tattoo flash and graffiti placas. There are also designs inspired by Christian iconography; album cover design; and lowrider artwork. Some designs reference Latin music; others are targeted to Latinas, children and military veterans. There are designs emphasizing Central and South American countries, as well as some U.S. cities and states. A few designs reference Chicano Power and Mojado Power. See also the finding aid for the physical collection.