2026 Membership Enrollment - Oil Painters of America

About the Open Call

Oil Painters of America (OPA) is offering 2026 membership enrollment, valid from January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026. The organization is dedicated to the preservation of representational art, specifically for artists working in the oil medium. Membership options include: Associate Membership ($80) for all oil artists, eligible for all shows including the National Show and online showcases. International Associate Membership ($80) for artists outside the United States, Canada, or Mexico, offering digital newsletters, online presentations, and eligibility for the Spring Online Showcase and Wet Paint Competition at the annual convention. Signature Membership ($80) requires specific exhibition history (e.g., four national OPA shows within eight years or a combination of national, regional, and salon shows), with an application period between June 1 and October 15. Master Signature Membership is conferred by the OPA Board based on exceptional merit, requiring prior Signature Membership, with a submission deadline of September 1. Student Membership (free) is for individuals aged 14-23 with an interest in oil painting, offering participation in an annual student art competition and access to webinars. Student Associate Membership ($40) for ages 14-23 provides eligibility for all shows and online showcases. Collectors’ Circle Membership ($80) offers exclusive access to OPA events, VIP receptions, virtual catalogs, and newsletters for art lovers and collectors. Gallery Membership ($80) allows galleries representing at least one current OPA member to be listed in OPA’s Gallery Preview. Applications can be submitted online or by mail, with processing taking 2-3 weeks.

What is Offered

Membership to Oil Painters of America, granting access to exhibitions, online showcases, digital newsletters, webinars, voting rights (for some membership types), and networking opportunities within a community dedicated to representational oil art.

Requirements

All artists working in the oil medium are encouraged to apply. Specific requirements apply for different membership levels: Student Membership (ages 14-23), International Associate Membership (outside US, Canada, Mexico), Signature Membership (requiring specific exhibition history and prior Associate membership), Master Signature Membership (requiring prior Signature membership), and Gallery Membership (representing at least one current OPA member).

How to Apply

New members can apply online by filling out an application and paying dues, or by printing an application and sending dues via mail. Renewing and rejoining members can log into their account online or mail a check to Oil Painters of America PO Box 2488 Crystal Lake, Illinois 60039-2488. Specific application deadlines apply for Signature and Master Signature memberships.