Dyson McLemore is shown with Alabama Governor Kay Ivey and his “2026 Governor’s Mansion Art Contest” winning entry, while Ivey holds his official certificate.
BRILLIANT — Dyson McLemore, age 9, a fourth-grader at Brilliant Elementary School, recently won third-place in a statewide drawing contest for fourth graders.
During the awards reception held on April 29 in Montgomery, he was able to meet Governor Kay Ivey and have his photo taken with the state’s top leader.
Dyson is the son of Brittney and Zack McLemore of Brilliant. Brittney said he was entered into the 2026 Governor’s Mansion Art Contest by his teacher, Jessica Reese.
There were three categories in the contest: drawing, painting and mixed media.
In his artist statement, Dyson noted, “I drew a camellia with other symbols of Alabama to show how beautiful Alabama is. I used watercolor pencils because I was inspired by my cousin who got me the pencils.”
Dyson’s cousin is Baylee McLemore, 21, originally from Brilliant, who now lives in Jasper.
Dyson has been drawing since he could hold a pencil, which is about eight years. His other hobbies include exploring in the woods, talking to his friends, going to yard sales and thrift stores and playing basketball.
See complete story in the Journal Record.
Subscribe now!