2026 SPE Annual Conference: Catalyst for Exchange
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print this pageIn Memoriam: Douglas McCulloh (1959–2025)
Honored Educator, Curator, and Photographer
Friday, November 07 - 9:00AM to 9:15AM
3824 Main St, Riverside, CA 92501
The Society for Photographic Education honors the life and legacy of Douglas McCulloh, an engaging and unconventional California photographer, curator, and educator whose impact on photographic arts and community storytelling continues to resonate deeply. Doug passed away on January 5, 2025, at his home, surrounded by loved ones, including his wife and collaborator of 42 years, Dawn Hassett.
As Interim Executive Director and Senior Curator of Exhibitions at UCR ARTS, Doug was known for his warmth, humor, and generosity of spirit. His leadership brought forth landmark exhibitions such as Digital Capture: Southern California and the Pixel-Based Image World, The Impact of Images: Mamie Till's Courage from Tragedy, and In the Sunshine of Neglect, a sweeping survey of photographic practice in the Inland Empire. His curatorial vision illuminated how images shape the cultural landscape of California and beyond.
A graduate of UC Santa Barbara and Claremont Graduate University, Doug's creative practice explored systems, geography, and chance. His projects—Chance Encounters: The L.A. Project, Dream Street, On the Beach, and the monumental The Great Picture—embodied his belief that "artistic practice should challenge the status quo." His work has been exhibited internationally, including at the Smithsonian Institution, London's Victoria & Albert Museum, and the Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing.
Doug was also a passionate collaborator, working for over 15 years with author Susan Straight on projects like More Dreamers of the Golden Dream and Wild Blue Yonder, heartfelt tributes to Southern California's people and places. He was widely admired by colleagues for his empathy, wit, and mentorship, qualities that defined his presence as both curator and educator.
Doug's curiosity and capacity for connection left an indelible mark on the field of photography. In his words and actions, he reminded us that art is a form of "making trouble" — a way of engaging the world with honesty, courage, and imagination.
The Society for Photographic Education extends heartfelt condolences to Dawn Hassett, the UCR ARTS community, and all who were touched by Doug's life and work.
speaker
Douglas McCulloh
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