image credit: representative image of a durational performance at the momentary in bentonville, ar. photo by stephen ironside

DC EMPTY: christian cruz

saturday, 13 janaury 2024

11.00 am - 7.00 pm

free admission, complimentary drinks (21+)

161 glass st.

dallas contemporary is pleased to announce DC EMPTY, breaking backs: a solo exhibition of living portraits created by conceptual and multimedia artist and educator christian cruz. this one-day solo installation featuring three durational performances spanning seven hours is scheduled for january 13, 2024 during the museum’s open hours from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. a reception will be held immediately following the conclusion of the performance.

cruz's day-long series of performances will unfold through the efforts of three compensated performers, each engaged in acts of labor throughout the gallery space. breaking backs critically explores tools of empowerment and resistance, encompassing hybridization, juxtaposition, and integration tactics. the installation of three performances, crafted in rasquachismo style—a term commonly used in chicano and mexican art movements that characterizes aesthetics of the working class, which make the most from the least—serves as symbolic allegories for struggle, hope, and grief.breaking backs: a solo exhibition of living portraits is funded by the city of dallas office of arts & culture and the national endowment for the arts through the “culture of value” grant.