"Double Take" Wins Best in Show: Discovering the Artistic Beauty of the Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library

As I journey through this "Inverted World" of photography, I'm thrilled to share some incredible news! My photograph, "Double Take," featuring the stunning Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library in Memphis, TN, has been awarded Best in Show – Most Modern Architecture at the prestigious "Libraries Are Beautiful – Inside and Out" photo contest!

This honor, celebrating the beauty and modernization of libraries nationwide during National Library Week, is a dream come true. I was initially contacted by the Benjamin L. Hooks Public Library to assist them in this competition, and I immediately agreed. Little did I know, this project would lead to such an amazing achievement.

Although I've visited the Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library countless times, this project required me to see it with an artist's eye. And what I discovered truly blew me away. From the intricate tile work and soaring roof in the foyer to the whimsical children's library that feels like a scene straight out of the Smurfs, this building is an architectural marvel.

"Double Take" captures the striking modern architecture of the library, specifically focusing on [mention specific architectural elements that caught your eye, e.g., the clean lines, the interplay of light and shadow, the unique angles and reflections]. I was captivated by how the library's design seamlessly blends functionality with artistic expression.

[Share your experience taking the photo, incorporating the "Inverted World" concept if applicable. For example:] "Stepping into this project felt like entering an 'Inverted World,' where familiar spaces revealed hidden depths. The challenge was to capture the essence of the library, not just as a building, but as a living, breathing space that inspires and connects. I spent hours exploring, waiting for the perfect light and angle to capture the library’s unique character."

The "Libraries Are Beautiful – Inside and Out" photo contest, organized by [mention the hosting organization if available], aimed to showcase the diverse beauty of libraries, both physically and metaphorically, and how they enrich our communities. To have my image selected by a panel of experts in art, architecture, and design, and then to win the popular vote, is an incredible honor.

Photography, for me, is about discovering and revealing hidden beauty. I have had the luxury of photographing a few of the nations greatest libraries and exhibiting in the gallery of the Hooks Library. Libraries have always been special places for me, repositories of knowledge and gateways to new worlds. To be able to combine my passion for art and photography with my appreciation for these vital community spaces is incredibly rewarding.

I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the organizers of the "Libraries Are Beautiful – Inside and Out" photo contest, the expert judges, everyone who voted for my photograph, and especially the Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library for their collaboration and inspiring architecture.

If you're in Memphis, I highly recommend visiting the Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library. And you can see more of my work, including more from my 'Inverted World' series, on [website or social media handles]. I'm so excited to share my passion for photography and architecture with you."

This win is a significant milestone in my photography journey, and I’m incredibly grateful for this recognition. Thank you again to everyone who made this possible. Please check out the full gallery.