Granville Artist Laura Atchison Blends Passions for Photography and Painting

Co-owner of Art@43023 gallery shares her creative journey from aerospace engineering to artistic expression.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 10:03am

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Laura Atchison, a photographer, painter, and co-owner of the Art@43023 gallery in Granville, Ohio, has had a lifelong passion for the arts. After studying aerospace engineering and computer science, she pursued a career in portrait photography and has now expanded into fine art photography and painting, showcasing her work at the community-focused gallery.

Why it matters

Atchison's story highlights the power of following one's creative passions, even if the path is not straightforward. Her journey from a technical background to becoming a successful artist and gallery co-owner demonstrates the value of artistic expression and the importance of community-driven art spaces like Art@43023 in supporting local artists.

The details

Atchison grew up with a strong aptitude for math and science, but she always maintained a deep interest in art and photography. After graduating from Ohio State University with a degree in English literature, she worked as a computer programmer and training specialist before deciding to pursue portrait photography full-time. In 2020, Atchison joined Art@43023 as a member artist and later became a co-owner, helping to keep the gallery open as a space for artists to showcase their work and the community to experience art.

  • Atchison graduated from St. Clairsville High School in 1988.
  • She studied aerospace engineering and computer science at Ohio State University before graduating with a degree in English literature.
  • Atchison started her portrait photography business in her 20s.
  • She began taking oil painting classes at the Bryn Du Art Center in 2012.
  • Atchison joined Art@43023 as a member artist in August 2020.

The players

Laura Atchison

A photographer, painter, and co-owner of the Art@43023 gallery in Granville, Ohio, who has had a lifelong passion for the arts.

Susan Klemetti

The co-owner of Art@43023 gallery, who praises Atchison's discerning eye in selecting artists and her marketing skills.

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What they’re saying

“I've had an interest in art and photography my entire life. I can remember experimenting with art forms in elementary school, from metalworking to sculpture to pointillism. All of it delighted me, but I always returned to photography. I wanted to understand everything – composition, lighting, exposure, development and storytelling. It's always about the story you're telling.”

— Laura Atchison, Photographer, Painter, and Co-owner of Art@43023

“Laura is the ultimate business partner. I particularly appreciate her discerning eye when selecting which artists to show at our gallery. And I would be truly lost without her marketing skills. And as an artist her works are technically polished, but what makes them special is her artist's lens. She shows our local Granville scenes and citizens through her very artistic eyes.”

— Susan Klemetti, Co-owner of Art@43023

What’s next

Atchison plans to continue showcasing her photography and paintings at the Art@43023 gallery, while also expanding her portrait photography business and exploring new artistic mediums.

The takeaway

Atchison's journey from a technical background to becoming a successful artist and gallery co-owner demonstrates the power of following one's creative passions, even if the path is not straightforward. Her story highlights the importance of community-driven art spaces like Art@43023 in supporting local artists and fostering artistic expression.