Martina Colova

Biography

Martina Colova is a New York-based photographer, originally from Bulgaria, who has spent over fifteen years in the vibrant cultural landscape of New York City. Known for her intimate and evocative portrait and nature photography, Colova’s work delves deeply into themes of female identity, self-expression, and the intersection of humanity with the natural world. Her unique perspective is informed by both her Eastern European roots and her extensive experiences in the dynamic artistic environment of NYC.

Colova’s educational background in photography is rooted in a commitment to both technical excellence and artistic exploration. She holds an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Commercial Photography from LaGuardia Community College and a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Photo & Imaging from Queens College. Her academic journey was distinguished by her membership in the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and her recognition as a Gardiner-Shenker Scholar. She also served as an ambassador for the President’s Society Environment program at LaGuardia Community College, reflecting her dedication to the arts as well as environmental awareness.

Her photography has been featured in a number of prestigious exhibitions and projects. These include Emerging Perspectives, Photo Lounge (PA), Art in the Time of Corona, Vol. 3 (DabArt, CA), and the Cameras for Science initiative. Colova’s work has also been showcased in the Archive Wagner Project, underscoring her ability to capture complex narratives through the lens of a camera.

Colova’s work has been featured in several prominent publications, including Interiors and Portraits of an Epicenter: NYC in Lockdown, where she documented the emotional and physical landscapes of New York City during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, she is a contributor to A Zip Code Memory Project and collaborated with Judith Helfand Productions on the documentary film TOGETHER, NOT ALONE, which explores collective resilience during times of crisis.

Through her photography, Martina Colova continues to capture and amplify voices, particularly those of women, creating visual stories that resonate with authenticity and emotional depth. Her work is a testament to the power of the visual medium to convey complex human experiences, fostering connection and reflection in a rapidly changing world.