Sayart.net - Riverside Punk Rock Exhibition Celebrates Underground Music Scene Legacy

A new exhibition titled '60 Miles East' at the Riverside Art Museum's Art Alliance Gallery is shining a spotlight on the vibrant punk rock, hardcore, and ska music scene that thrived in Riverside from the late 1980s through the early 2000s. The showcase, which runs until April 12, was co-curated by journalist Ken Craword and photographer Zach Cordner, two childhood friends who grew up attending local shows together every weekend. Their personal connection to the movement adds an authentic, grassroots perspective to the historical retrospective. The exhibition aims to document an era when underground music flourished in the Inland Empire, providing a platform for countless local bands and creating a tight-knit community of musicians and fans. Through rare photographs, concert flyers, vintage band t-shirts, and oral histories, visitors can experience the raw energy and DIY ethic that defined Riverside's alternative music culture during its peak years. Craword and Cordner spent months collecting memorabilia from former band members, show promoters, and scene veterans to create a comprehensive narrative of this influential period. The curators hope the exhibition will serve as both an educational resource and an inspiration for younger generations who may not realize the rich musical heritage in their own backyard. Cordner expressed particular excitement about seeing youth engage with the displays, reading the detailed wall texts, and absorbing the stories of creative rebellion and artistic expression. He believes understanding this history could empower a new wave of musicians and artists to rebuild and revitalize the local scene. The timing feels especially relevant as many communities across America witness resurgences in grassroots music movements. The Riverside punk scene was characterized by all-ages shows in unconventional venues, from VFW halls to warehouse spaces, where teenagers could express themselves freely. Bands often recorded their own tapes, designed their own artwork, and booked their own tours, embodying a self-sufficient spirit that resonated far beyond the city limits. This exhibition captures that independence and creativity, showcasing how the scene provided an outlet for youth who felt disconnected from mainstream culture. The gallery space has been transformed to evoke the atmosphere of a 1990s punk venue, complete with period-appropriate decor and a soundtrack featuring local bands. Interactive elements allow visitors to listen to recordings from pivotal shows and watch video interviews with scene pioneers. The curators have also included a map pinpointing legendary performance spaces, many of which no longer exist, preserving their memory for future generations. Educational panels explore the social and cultural context of the era, including how the scene provided a sense of belonging for diverse youth. Community response has been overwhelmingly positive, with former scene participants bringing their own children to share stories of their youth. The exhibition has sparked reunions among old friends and bandmates who haven't connected in decades. Local music teachers are already planning field trips to introduce students to this important chapter of regional cultural history. The project demonstrates how art institutions can play a vital role in preserving subcultural heritage that might otherwise be forgotten. Those interested in experiencing '60 Miles East' can visit the Riverside Art Museum's Art Alliance Gallery during regular museum hours through April 12. Additional information about special events, including panel discussions with curators and musicians, can be found on the museum's official website. The exhibition stands as a testament to the enduring power of music to build community and shape identity.