In the summer of 2012, the UnBound! group exhibition was first launched as an invitational exhibition to build community and support artists. In 2026, UnBound! remains Candela’s only recurring open call exhibition and reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting artists at various stages of their careers. There is no theme; however, the exhibition is dedicated to featuring a wide range of photographic artworks and artist books that represent what photography looks like in the moment. The exhibition takes an additional step by providing collection and funding opportunities to select artists. 

The mission of the Candela Collection is to support UnBound! artists through the acquisition of works from the exhibition while furthering Candela Photographic Arts’ broader commitment to supporting artists and advocating for contemporary photographic practices. The collection currently includes 149 photographic artworks and artist books, representing a growing archive of contemporary photographic practices and approaches to the medium that have shaped UnBound! over the years. In addition to collection acquisitions, 2025 marked the introduction of artist honorariums, which were awarded to 2 participating artists in order to provide financial support for solo exhibition features in the 2026 programming year.

As we celebrate this summer for the first time as a 501c3, our intention is to look beyond UnBound! and garner substantial financial support for Candela Photographic Arts’ ongoing mission and year-round programming.