KNOXVILLE - The Professional Photographers of East Tennessee (PPETN) proudly announce their 2026 Photo Expo, Collected Exposure: A Gathering of Creative Perspectives by the Professional Photographers of East Tennessee. This juried exhibition will be held at The Emporium in downtown Knoxville from September 4 - 25, 2026, and will feature up to 50 photographic works by PPETN members.

Selected through a competitive jurying process, the images highlight the artistic range and storytelling talent of East Tennessee’s photography community. The 2026 juror is Jack Retterer, a Knoxville-based fine art photographer, poet, digital artist, and educator with more than 50 years of photography experience. Retterer currently teaches Fine Art Photography at the University of Tennessee and is an active instructor and speaker for arts and photography organizations across the state. Known for blending visual imagery with poetic expression to explore the human experience, he brings a deeply reflective and informed perspective to the selection process. Awards for Best of Show, 1st Place, and Photographic Distinction will be presented during the exhibition.

The show opens during Knoxville’s First Friday Art Walk on September 4, with a public awards presentation at 5:00 PM in the Emporium’s Lower Gallery. Guests are invited to meet the artists and view their works - many of which will be available for purchase.

Exhibition Details

● Title: Collected Exposure: A Gathering of Creative Perspectives by the Professional Photographers of East Tennessee
● Dates: September 4-25, 2026
● Opening Reception & Awards: September 4, 2026, at 5:00 PM
● Location: The Emporium, 100 S. Gay Street, Knoxville, TN 37902
● Admission: Free and open to the public
● Contact: Jessica Millard at info@jessicamillardportraits.com or (423) 923-4392

The Professional Photographers of East Tennessee is a collective of skilled photographers dedicated to advancing the art and profession of photography in the region. PPETN offers education, networking opportunities, and resources to help photographers of all levels thrive in their craft. ppetn.com.

Located in the heart of downtown Knoxville, The Emporium is the hub of visual arts for the region and home to the Arts & Culture Alliance. With multiple gallery spaces and a year-round calendar of exhibitions, The Emporium provides a platform for local and regional artists to share their work with the public and fosters creative growth within the community.