This year’s exhibit featured an outstanding collection of work from more than 50 photographers, each bringing their own perspective, creativity, and storytelling through the lens. From striking action shots to peaceful natural scenes, the showcase once again highlighted the incredible talent found within our community and surrounding region.
This is the 34th year for the Kimberlin Photo Showcase.
The exhibit is currently on display at the W.G. Rhea Public Library from May 3–25, 2026, and we were honored to celebrate these artists during our public reception and awards ceremony on May 3rd.
We’re excited to recognize this year’s winners:
🏆 Best in Show: “Desayunando” by Sarah Cendejas
Action
🥇 Taking it on the Cheek – Michael Grace
🥈 Earned, Not Given – Nicole Blackburn
🥉 Bunched – Barb Edwards
Altered Images
🥇 Angel at Ephesus – Laura Sherrod
🥈 The Looking Glass – Beth Mathis
🥉 Timeless in Blue Suede – Rodger Jowers
Architectural
🥇 Stair – Judith Putnam
🥈 New Mexico Museum of Art – Karen Geary
🥉 Returning to Nature – Caleb Grissom
Black & White
🥇 Quiet Wonder – Brandi Kogut
🥈 Waking the Water – Julie Bisgaard
🥉 La Gare – Judith Putnam
Mobile
🥇 Morning Rise – Becky Crawford
🥈 The Custom House in Blue – Freda Wallace
🥉 Interesting – Collette Wilde
Natural World
🥇 Caribbean Cascades – Alba Fuentes Novoa
🥈 The Invitation – Brandi Kogut
🥉 Bee at the Buffet – Michael Grace
People
🥇 Sherrod with Alvarez – Laura Sherrod
🥈 Pink Hot Line – Barb Edwards
🥉 Her Own Kind of Sparkle – Crystal Norwood
Travel
🥇 Let Me Take Your Photo by the Big Nose – Karen Geary
🥈 Stillness in Layers – Cassie King
🥉 Whispers of Paradise – Emilie Sheppard
Wildlife
🥇 Desayunando – Sarah Cendejas
🥈 Bald Eagles Mating – Amanda Burton
🥉 Contemplation – Karen Geary
Youth Division
🥇 Symphony of the Deep – Scarlett Sheppard
🥈 The Bugle Bull – Scarlett Sheppard
🥉 Husky Blues – Scarlett Sheppard
A Showcase Built on Legacy & Support
This event would not be possible without the continued generosity of Dr. Danny and Mrs. Martha Jo Kimberlin. Through their travels to more than 100 countries, the Kimberlins have captured the beauty and diversity of the world through photography — and their passion continues to inspire this showcase year after year.
Their financial support allows this event to not only exist, but to grow into a meaningful opportunity for photographers of all ages and experience levels to share their work, be recognized, and continue developing their craft. We were also honored to have Dr. Danny’s photography on display during this year’s exhibit.
Elevating the Experience for Artists
One exciting addition to this year’s showcase was the implementation of a detailed judging rubric. Each entry was evaluated using clear criteria, and scoring sheets were made available to participants. This effort was designed to provide meaningful feedback and encourage continued growth for every photographer involved.
About This Year’s Judge
This year’s showcase was judged by Nathan Morgan, who works in the Office of University Relations at the University of Tennessee at Martin, where he leads visual storytelling and contributes to the university’s broader communications efforts.
Nathan began his career in photojournalism and has received recognition from organizations such as POYi, the National Press Photographers Association, and the Tennessee College Public Relations Association. His experience and thoughtful evaluation brought a high level of insight and care to this year’s judging process.
Photo: Best in Show: “Desayunando” by Sarah Cendejas