Forged Field Artist Spotlight: Meet Petya McCulloch

Last Updated 7/24/2025

A Storyteller Through the Lens

As part of the Forged Fields: The Art of Agriculture exhibit currently on display in the Columbus Community Art Gallery, we're shining a spotlight on one of the talented photographers whose work brings the beauty and richness of rural life into vivid focus: Petya McCulloch of Petya McCulloch Photography LLC, located in the Trackside District - Downtown Columbus.

Originally from Plovdiv, Bulgaria, Petya's journey to Columbus is as inspiring as her photography. She came to the U.S. to play Division I tennis, first in Natchitoches, Louisiana, and later at Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she earned her MBA in leadership. 

A Lifelong Passion for Photography

Though she excelled on the court and in the classroom, Petya's love of photography never left her. It eventually became her full-time passion and career. She opened her downtown Columbus studio in 2024, located inside Pioneer Plaza at 2402 13th Street.

She specializes in smash cake sessions and custom studio photography, but also enjoys outdoor shoots, capturing once-in-a-lifetime moments with an eye for story and emotion. Petya brings a passion for storytelling through her lens, ensuring every session is as unique as the people in it.

Commitment to Community

Petya is not only dedicated to her clients but also to her community. She generously donates her time and talents to events like the Habitat for Humanity Golf Tournament Fundraiser, using her photography to support meaningful causes. She also is one of the tennis instructors for both the Columbus YMCA and the City of Columbus Parks and Rec Department.

Her work in the community reflects the values of connection, joy and authenticity.

About the Exhibit

Petya's photography is featured as part of the Forged Fields exhibit, celebrating the intersection of agriculture, creativity and rural life. The exhibit runs through July 31 at the Columbus Community Art Gallery, located on the second floor of the Columbus Community Building, 2500 14th St.

Gallery Hours are Monday - Thursday from 1-5 p.m. and Saturday from 1-4 p.m.

Learn More

To explore more of Petya's work or book a session, visit her website at www.petyamccullochphotography.com.

Come experience the artistry and heart behind her lens and see how agriculture storytelling and creativity come together in this powerful local exhibit.

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