On Both Sides of the Lens

Documenting the Puerto Rican Diaspora

Inspired by the legacy of Frank Espada, Hiram Maristany, Sophie Rivera, Charles Biasiny-Rivera, Roger Cabán, Felipe Dante, and many more, CENTRO had the goal of having a visual record that communicated the last five years of the Puerto Rican diasporic experience. Through an open call, the work of 33 photographers was selected for this first iteration of On Both Sides of the Lens: Documenting the Puerto Rican Diaspora.

“We not only celebrate the work of the 33 awarded photographers, but also a long tradition, widely documented in our archives, in which our photography artists have turned their gaze toward their communities. This documentary and artistic work reflects who we are and how we see ourselves from within,” said Ángel Antonio Ruiz-Laboy, CENTRO’s Associate Director of Arts & Culture. “It captures our everyday life in all its nuances and celebrates us by celebrating our culture and how it integrates into American culture. This first instance of the project, which we hope to repeat regularly, documents the past five years of the Puerto Rican diaspora.”

Featured Artwork: Vania J. Arroyo. Haciendo pelo en la cocina, 2023. Image courtesy of the artist.