More than 4 months without electricity, without water — a crisis caused by a natural disaster, but made possible by over a century of U.S. colonialism. For about a million Puerto Ricans, this is still their daily reality. Without a vote in Congress, and with increasingly restrictive laws and regulation, the island has had little power in helping itself, becoming more dependent every day on outside help.

Day 155, 156, 157 is an educational experience, working to put the current crisis into perspective. The weekend programming will be composed of an exhibition of photographic and sculptural work, depicting the tragedy and the prevalent need in Puerto Rico. Proceeds from the exhibition will go toward helping small Puerto Rican farmers re-establish their farms and rebuild their communities.

Photography has a long and intertwined history with the book form. The synergy between the book and the photograph has not only continued, but significantly expanded as a powerful platform for photographers to present their work.

This May, Candela Books + Gallery will feature a compelling selection of work from eleven well-crafted, self-published and small press photography books: