MILWAUKEE - At the Milwaukee Public Museum, the lively exhibit Chicano Now: American Expressions is the second part of actor Cheech Marin s presentation of Chicano culture to mainstream America.
Marin s personal art collection formed the core of the first part, Chicano Visions: American Painters on the Verge, an art exhibit which has already traveled the country. This second part, an interactive multi-media exhibit, hopes to interpret Chicano culture and its growing role in American society.

San Antonio artist Enedina Vasquez called it an opportunity for Chicanos to embrace their cultura and tell their stories.
When visitors enter the exhibit, they are confronted with brightly colored lights and bold graphics; television screens feature personalities such as George Lopez, Carlos Santana, Marin, Paul Rodriguez and Culture Clash as a testament to the Chicano influence on popular American culture.
Nearby, a traditional family altar has been created by Senora Vasquez, whose gentle voice explains the meaning of the elements on display: candles, copal, bouquets of marigolds, a molcajete and other family items displayed on a brilliantly colored serape.

Leaping around the corner is a bright yellow lowrider with flames on its sides. Visitors experience a realistic interpretation of this classic and authentic Chicano cultural expression. Marin narrates as passengers view other lowrider cars on the windshield and hydraulic jacks cause the car to shake and lurch in response to the provocations of other vehicles.

Chicano is a name proudly used by many Mexican-Americans as an expression of pride in their culture. This heritage has become an increasing part of American daily life and this influence can be felt in music, food, sports and politics. Milwaukee is the exhibit s last stop on its nationwide tour.

What: Chicano Now: American Expressions, interactive exhibit
Where: Milwaukee Public Museum, 800 W. Wells St., Milwaukee
Tickets: Exhibit entry part of museum admission.

11; 8 (age 62 and older); and 6 (ages 3 to 15).