Fofito Morales
Fotógrafias por Jose Jimenez Tirado
Born and raised in Santurce, Puerto Rico, Fofito Morales is an art promoter and cultural manager, a visionary leader in the independent art scene of the island. His passion for Puerto Rican heritage has served as his inspiration. His contributions to the independent music scene in Puerto Rico include world-known venues like El Café Seda and Aquí Se Puede in Old San Juan and La Respuesta, home to Puerto Rico's underground & independent artists. This last venue has revived and served as a catalyst for the contemporary art and cultural Santurcina scene since it opened its doors in 2008. Reconnecting with the fantastic cultural scene present in the historic Puerto Rican & Latino neighborhood of El Barrio in NYC, Fofito created La Marqueta Retoña in 2013. It was an initiative to revitalize this historical site's social and cultural elements through art, music, and community activities. His vision is for La Marqueta Retoña to be a vital bridge and connection between Puerto Rico and New York. A place for celebrating our Latin culture, educating and instilling a sense of pride in the next generation of residents living in El Barrio and beyond. In 2018 he once again played a critical role in reviving the economy in Santurce after hurricane María with his project Dulce Santurce, and now in the Pandemic with Santurce Virtual. Fofito is also the producer of the mural festivals, Los Muros Hablan and Monument Art New York City, and Liliana and Silvio's proud father.
What inspires you?
I am inspired by my children and the love for Puerto Rico.
What does community mean to you?
Community means family, tradition, past, present, and future.
Favorite Film
‘Dead Poets Society’ with Robin Williams.
Favorite Song
‘Venga La Esperanza’ by Silvio Rodríguez en Chile, 1990.
Favorite Book
‘Terrazo’ by Abelardo Díaz Alfaro.
Favorite Place
My favorite place is my kitchen with my children.