5 Reasons to Experience Grass Roots Car Culture — Automotive Photography by Blake Ferguson
- Blake Ferguson
- Jul 17, 2017
- 7 min read
Updated: Jul 29
Date Published: 07/17/2017
Date Edited: 06/03/2025
Purely Grassroots! The pinnacle of car culture worldwide, but especially here in Ontario! As a small, tightly knit auto event— there was no turn-out quite like the Grassroots event this year. Another successful weekend as a hobbyist photographer running alongside the partner in crime: Behn and his modified 2000 Volkswagen Jetta MK4 VR6! Where we found ourselves conquering new terrain, we laid to experience the whole-hearted connectedness of car culture, encountering familiar faces from the Greater Toronto Area.
With no regard for the details, the only excitement was forward to automotive photography and the day of conquering the scene with my Sony A300. Unfortunately, I cannot pinpoint the venue location, defining Grassroots through exclusive grass parking in a naturally filled atmosphere. In the heart of summer, a unique auto event unfolded- one that was not just for the petrolheads but also for those who cherished the company of their furry friends. This car show was a celebration of passion, where the roar of engines mingled with the joyful barks of dogs, creating a vibrant tapestry of fun-filled outings.
The event was purely a humble atmosphere, away from the competition that more of the city culture beheld. From the bragging and boasting of typical gatherings. Instead, it fostered a friendly environment, welcoming project car owners from all platforms. Here, the focus was on camaraderie and shared enthusiasm for car modifications and customizations rather than competition.
The array of car platforms was as diverse as the attendees themselves. From the stance of JDM cars to the tuned classics and those rare, raunchy American-built projects- each vehicle told its own story. Among them were Pontiacs with scissor doors and vulgarly loud sound systems, evoking the wild, west-coast vibe. These cars and their disregard for public opinion represent bold statements of individuality.
As a car photographer, it warmed my heart to witness the event draw a wide range of generations. Grandfathers with a deep appreciation for classics stood alongside children who marvelled at the latest Nissan 370Z. The event was a melting pot of ages, each contributing to the rich tapestry of experiences.
While interstate car shows often cater to a younger audience, this Grassroots event offered a fascinating experience that rivalled them. Unlike the endless displays of aftermarket parts and modifications, this gathering captivated me through its cultural depth. It was a testament to the enduring allure of cars and the communities they inspire, a celebration that transcended the ordinary and embraced the extraordinary.
For those curious about how the term Grassroots aroused- while referring to a platform of custom cars— learn more about the rich history and culture by continuing the read below. If you want to get into the car show coverage— browse below!
The Grassroots 2017 Experience
Through another successful weekend chasing automotive photography pleasantries in Ontario- through a long drive home back to Newmarket, it pondered my mind- what is Grassroots? The only knowledge so far was that it was a unique, tightly knit car show. Let us look deeper into the history of car culture and where this term originates.
What is the History Behind the Phrase— Grassroots?
The term Grassroots evokes the soil-level roots of plants. In practical usage, Grassroots refers to the fundamental levels of a movement or organization. Merriam-Webster defines it as:
'Originating… in or at the grassroots' (i.e., the basic level of society).
Historically, the phrase emerged in early 20th-century American politics. For instance, Indiana Senator Albert Beveridge and his 1912 Progressive campaign asserted that:
Generally, Grassroots movements are those constructed from ordinary citizens and local levels upward, the opposite of imposed top-down. The term subsequently expanded beyond politics to encompass any bottom-up community initiative, emphasizing participation by ordinary individuals rather than elites.
Through another successful weekend chasing automotive photography pleasantries in Ontario- through a long drive home back to Newmarket, it pondered my mind- what is Grassroots? The only knowledge so far was that it was a unique, tightly knit car show. Let us look deeper into the history of car culture and where this term originates.
Grassroots in Car Culture
In the automotive subculture, Grassroots similarly signifies enthusiast-driven, non-commercial activities. Grassroots car scenes are organized by hobbyists – through local clubs, street meets, or amateur races – rather than by industry corporations or big-budget promotions. For example, the fan-driven Radwood meet is explicitly titled the Grassroots car show that celebrates the rides of the 1980s and 1990s. Such events contrast with corporate auto events; they are laid-back gatherings where community passion and authenticity are paramount. The common phrase through car culture Ontario is:
“Smaller, community-driven events…where enthusiasts of various ages and backgrounds congregate”.
In these settings- hobbyists swap tips, show cars, and build camaraderie. Grassroots car culture thus embodies a bottom-up, participatory spirit: ordinary fans contribute their time and creativity rather than being passive consumers of a polished commercial auto event.
#1 — Community-organized Gatherings and Races.
At the core of Grassroots car culture lies the vibrant spirit of local gatherings – from early morning Cars & Coffee meet-ups to adrenaline-fuelled neighbourhood drag races and time trials. These auto events cater to openness and informality, championing participation above all else. For instance, the renowned Japanese Daikoku parking lot gathering in Yokohama is known for its welcoming atmosphere with no invite-only barriers and no judgment regarding the car you drive. Similarly, casual meets around the globe invite car enthusiasts of all skill levels to join the fun. These community events create a profound sense of belonging, where knowledge flows freely.
#2 — Do-it-yourself (DIY) building and tuning.
Grassroots enthusiasts take immense pride in their hands-on projects and budget-friendly custom car setups. Publications like Grassroots Motorsports showcase how everyday individuals transform their visions into reality by fabricating chassis, swapping engines, or repurposing parts from junkyard finds. Inspiring low-cost racing challenges, such as the renowned $2,000 Challenge. In this vibrant community, ingenuity and creativity reign supreme—an incomplete chassis in a garage acquires attention just as much as a polished show car. This DIY culture fosters inclusivity, allowing passionate amateurs to compete and participate despite limited resources, proving that true automotive excellence knows no price tag.
#3 — Inclusive, egalitarian ethos.
Grassroots events play a vital role in breaking down barriers to entry in the automotive community. As exemplified by gatherings like Daikoku, these meets are open to all—there are no invite-only restrictions. This inclusivity invites car enthusiasts from all walks of life, whether they drive vintage gems or budget-project cars.
The Vintage Japanese Motor Union (VJMU) in Los Angeles champions the idea that value lies in the vehicle of the personality it reflects rather than its flawless restoration. At VJMU gatherings, the celebration goes beyond perfection; they proudly recognize the best patina and work in progress, showcasing the spirit of personal creativity, passion and the overall process starting from the Grassroots.
Like these ideals, I found myself resonating with the research found. My enjoyment of photography started at Grassroots, especially with my Sony A300 camera. Although, through post-production techniques, I did strive for commercial polish, it all came about through the routes of the Grass.
In the Grassroots scene, the emphasis is not on rivalry but on fostering mentorship and community. New members can join with minimal requirements. This welcoming atmosphere starkly contrasts with the exclusivity of high-end car shows, where status and wealth often overshadow authenticity. Grassroots gatherings invite car enthusiasts to celebrate their love for cars, prioritizing genuine passion over polish and prestige.
#4 — Cultural expression and style.
An essential aspect of Grassroots car culture is that each vehicle serves as a canvas for owner identity. Modifications often embody personal or cultural expression as much as they enhance performance. Enthusiasts share the stories behind their rides: one dedicated owner in Los Angeles meticulously restored a 1973 Mazda RX-3, a tribute to the very model his uncle street-raced decades ago. Grassroots cars portray rich histories and themes that resonate deeply within their communities, transforming car shows into vibrant cultural festivals rather than mere technical exhibitions.
#5 — Community-driven (not commercial) events.
Grassroots gatherings emerge from the passion of car enthusiasts rather than the influence of sponsors or marketing agencies. Take Radwood, for example—a car show born from a love for the 1980s and 1990s nostalgia rather than as an orchestrated launch by the auto industry. Similarly, many Grassroots track events are spearheaded by local racing clubs, not promoters, fostering a unique dynamic where attendees have a direct say in awards, participate in DIY timing and organization, and help shape the agenda. These events embody pure, unfiltered passion, free from the bounds of social status or advertising. Typically, Grassroots meets operate with minimal fees and rely on volunteer staff; any profits generated are a secondary concern. This Grassroots model ensures that the focus remains on cars and community, preserving an authenticity that corporate car shows often fail to replicate.
Grassroots vs. Mainstream Car Scenes
Grassroots car culture differs sharply from the mainstream or commercialized scene. Mainstream events (commercial auto events, manufacturer-sponsored shows, or heavily staged competitions) emphasize product marketing, glossy displays, and professional showmanship. In contrast, Grassroots meetings are informal and participant-focused. Mainstream car shows might hand out trophies only to perfect custom car setups, but Grassroots events will celebrate everything from a beat-up drift car and its sideways skid to the quirkiest custom accent on a loyal street car.
Automotive enthusiasts often remark that Grassroots gatherings feel more welcoming – one journalist contrasted the era of “commercialized, big budget” drifting with the remaining little spotlight on the Grassroots level. (SpeedHunters) In Grassroots drift culture, for instance, low-key practice days at a local circuit are prized far above the glitz of a televised pro series. In short, Grassroots car culture thrives on authenticity and camaraderie, while mainstream scenes lean on spectacle and sales.
Grassroots values participation, DIY creativity, inclusivity, and personal expression. While Japanese and North American scenes have distinct flavours – from the specific cars and aesthetics favoured to the typical venues and organization – both live on the same foundation of enthusiasts celebrating car culture on their terms.
Browse Blake Ferguson’s Commercial Photography Portfolio.
Browse Blake Ferguson’s Fine-Art Photography Portfolio.
Book Blake Ferguson’s Photography Services.
Consult with Blake Ferguson about your Graphic Design project.
Comments