Julio César Morales
Interrupted Passage
2008

Interrupted Passage
The video Interrupted Passage presents Julio Cesar Morales’s performance staged in the former home of Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo, a mid-nineteenth-century Mexican general serving in California. Reenacted here is Vallejo’s acquiescence to Americans who were attempting to overthrow Mexican governance of the region. When a small militia arrived at Vallejo’s house to arrest him, he invited them in and shared a meal. The emphasis on the role of food in Morales’s version connects this historic event to the current proliferation of food-based culture and social interaction in California.
Julio César Morales is an influential artist known for his multidisciplinary approach to exploring complex socio-political themes. Morales has built a prolific career that delves into issues of labor, memory, surveillance technologies, and identity strategies. His work spans various media, including painting, video, and installation, each piece serving as a poignant commentary on the lived experiences of marginalized communities. Morales often incorporates elements of his own cultural heritage, providing a deeply personal lens through which broader societal issues are examined. His art has been exhibited internationally, showcasing his ability to blend personal narrative with critical analysis seamlessly. Through his thought-provoking work, Morales challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about power dynamics, cultural identity, and the pervasive impact of technology on human life. His innovative practice continues to inspire and provoke dialogue within the contemporary art world.