Cultivated Imagery, Enduring Service
The Soldier's Lens
The Soldier’s Lens is an annual photography exhibition presented by the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts (FMoPA) that highlights the perspectives and experiences of active-duty service members, reservists, veterans, and their families.
Through photography, the exhibition explores the many dimensions of military life, from the intensity of service to the everyday moments of connection, family, and life beyond the uniform. The exhibition honors the stories of those who serve, raises awareness of veterans’ experiences, and brings the community together through the power of photography. The Soldier's Lens brings to light the personal perspectives of those who serve our country through the power of photography. This exhibition presents a compelling visual narrative that moves beyond headlines and news feeds, revealing the complex and often unseen dimensions of military life. From moments of active duty to quiet reflections during downtime, the images offer intimate access to a history of experiences shaped by common goals: to defend the nation, protect citizens, and maintain global security.
Founded in 2025, the inaugural exhibit received over 500 submissions from those in active duty, veterans, reservists, and their families, reviewed by a panel with expertise in both the arts and military service. The works speak to themes of resilience, identity, and connection, together forming a nuanced portrait of those who serve—the sacrifices they make and the challenges they face. Now entering its second year, the exhibit returns soon: not as a contest, but as an evolving archive of understanding, continuing to deepen public appreciation for the lived experiences of military communities.
Retired U.S. Army/National Guard member Norman Schimmel points to a photograph of himself that he submitted to The Soldier’s Lens Exhibit at the opening event, November 2025.
The Soldier’s Lens Exhibit Entrance, 2025.
Joni Godlove and Alexis Muellner, co‑founders and co‑curators of The Soldier’s Lens project, attend the opening of its inaugural exhibit, November 2025.
INSPIRATION
Founded in 2025 by FMoPA Chair and Tampa Bay Business Journal editor Alexis Muellner and his wife, Joni Godlove, an accomplished freelance graphic artist and former marketing vice president, The Soldier’s Lens offers an intimate window into military life through the photographs and stories of those who lived it.
Asked how the project began, Joni explains:
“My father was a career Airman, so I know what military life feels like from the family’s vantage. I was also moved by the work of my client, Tom Arthur, whose photographs from Vietnam I encountered while collaborating with him on a book project. His images—of camaraderie, courage, and resilience—stayed with me. When Alexis invited me to brainstorm ideas for upcoming FMoPA exhibits, I believed there were many more stories like Tom’s waiting to be seen. Sharing them is both an act of honor and a way to reveal what serving truly feels like, from the perspective of those who serve.
“From the beginning, I wanted the exhibition to reflect the extraordinary range of people who serve and to make sure their stories were seen. The photographs span generations, branches, ranks and backgrounds. Each story is distinctly its own, yet together they reveal something shared and deeply human about service.
“What began as a passion project has evolved into something more. We’re proud of where we’ve been and even more excited for what’s ahead.”
That evolution has been meaningful for Alexis as well.
“The Soldier’s Lens has created a powerful emotional connection, unlocking family archives, honoring the service and sacrifice of military members and their loved ones, and helping preserve the lived experience of those who served,” says Alexis.
That connection now reaches far beyond Tampa Bay. Submissions have arrived from throughout the United States and around the world, including Ukraine, Niger, Djibouti, South Korea, Sudan, Syria and countries across Central America. Closer to home, every inaugural sponsor has returned for a second year.
For Alexis, the response also speaks to what a museum can mean to its community, particularly in Tampa Bay, with its deep military roots and close ties to MacDill Air Force Base and U.S. Central Command.
“The long-term sustainability of the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts is a constant challenge, and an annual initiative like this helps build awareness, deepen community engagement and strengthen support for FMoPA’s mission, both locally and far beyond Tampa Bay.”
Acknowledgements
From the outset, Executive Curator Robin O’Dell and Exhibitions Manager Jodie Katzeff have been instrumental in realizing The Soldier’s Lens. Their expertise, professionalism, and meticulous attention to detail have shaped the exhibition at every turn, and their leadership completes the curation team. We extend our deepest gratitude for the countless hours they devoted to ensuring the success of this powerful project. Equally, we thank the entire staff of FMoPA and the Board of Directors — without their steadfast support and dedication, none of this would have been possible.
Robin O'Dell
Executive Curator
Robin O’Dell currently serves as Executive Curator for the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts. Robin has a Master of Arts degree in Photographic Preservation and Collections Management and over twenty five years of experience curating exhibitions and working with photographic collections. She is also a contributing writer for The Artisan Magazine and Creative Pinellas’ Arts Coast Magazine. Her responsibilities include curating exhibitions, programming, oversight of collections, and building and maintaining relationships with members, staff, donors, and the community.
Jodie Katzeff
Exhibitions Manager
Jodie Katzeff earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Art History from the University of Florida and studied for her Doctorate at the City University of New York, where she completed her coursework in Art and Architecture of the 20th Century. She brings over 10 years of collections management and experience to FMoPA. Most recently she served as the Chief Registrar at Gladstone Gallery in New York City. Jodie is excited to be a part of FMoPA’s exhibition team and the growing art scene in Ybor City. When she is not looking at art, Jodie loves to cook, garden, and spend time with her family. She is also very passionate about healthy living.
Current Exhibit The Soldier’s Lens 2026
On view at FMoPA Nov. 5, 2026 – Jan. 10, 2027
About FMoPA
The Florida Museum of Photographic Arts brings world-class photography to life. As a hub for both historic and contemporary photographic art, we showcase influential national and international artists while enriching our community through creative educational programs for all. More about FMoPA