George McCullough was a renowned artist and art teacher who lived in New York City and later moved to California and to Fort Wayne, Indiana. McCullough's primary mediums were painting and etching. He began his artistic journey by obtaining a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) from Iowa State University.

McCullough's dedication and talent were recognized with a prestigious Fulbright Scholarship, which allowed him to study art at the Academia Belle Arti in Florence and the Academie de la Grande Caumiere in Paris. These experiences exposed him to various artistic techniques and styles, enriching his artistic repertoire.

As an art teacher, McCullough played a vital role in inspiring and influencing numerous students. He initially taught at the Fort Wayne Art School when it was located on West Berry Street and later became an Associate Professor of Art at IPFW (Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne). His commitment to art and education elevated the importance of art in the community, fostering a thriving artistic environment during that era.

McCullough's artistic style primarily revolved around impressionism. This style is characterized by visible brushstrokes, an emphasis on capturing the effects of light and atmosphere, and a focus on the sensory experience of the subject. As a self-described colorist, McCullough emphasized the significance of color in his artworks. Color served as a primary means of expression, creating harmony, conveying emotions, and unifying the composition. His vibrant and harmonious color palettes aligned with the impressionist style, capturing the transient qualities of light and atmosphere.

During a visit to the National Gallery in Washington, D.C., McCullough had the opportunity to copy masterpieces from renowned artists. This experience showcased his appreciation for art and his eagerness to learn from the techniques and compositions of established artists. By studying paintings such as Van Gogh's "The Olive Pickers," Cezanne's "Baroque Vase of Flowers," Corot's "In the Studio," Velazquez's "The Needlewoman," and Monticelli's "Women, Men and Dogs," McCullough gained valuable insights into different artistic styles and approaches, further enriching his artistic development.

After retiring from teaching duties in 1989, McCullough had more time to pursue his artwork and engage in trips abroad. One notable experience was his participation in an art-related workshop program in Gera, Germany. Gera, located near Leipzig and Weimar, was still part of Communist Russia at the time. The art program was sponsored by the state, providing artists with necessary materials. International participants were offered housing and even a light breakfast before starting their work in the Wald Haus, a building located in the picturesque Thuringian Forest. The Wald Haus served as a social center and provided a large courtyard for the artists. McCullough had the opportunity to collaborate with artists from Germany, Czechoslovakia, Greece, Poland, Romania, Russia, and the United States during this exchange program.

George McCullough's passing on October 15, 2005, marked the end of an era in Fort Wayne's artistic community. However, his legacy as a skilled artist and passionate teacher lives on. His works continue to be enjoyed and displayed throughout the midwest, serving as a source of inspiration for both established and emerging artists. McCullough's impact on the artistic community of Fort Wayne, Indiana, remains profound, as his contributions have enriched the local art scene and shaped the artistic landscape for years to come.