Oil Painters of America 2026 Membership Enrollment

About the Open Call

Oil Painters of America (OPA) is dedicated to the preservation of representational art. The 2026 Membership enrollment is currently open, with membership valid from January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026. This opportunity encourages all artists working in the oil medium to apply and join a community that supports and promotes traditional, representational art. Various membership options are available: Associate Membership ($80): Open to all artists working with oil medium. Accepted artists are eligible to jury for all shows, including the National Show, and participate in all online showcases. International Associate Membership ($80): For artists outside the United States, Canada, or Mexico. Benefits include digital newsletters and catalogs, general email distribution, full access to online webinars and presentations, and eligibility for the Spring Online Showcase competition and Wet Paint Competition at the annual convention. Not eligible for OPA physical exhibitions. Signature Membership ($80): Conferred through two options: 1) Automatic status by exhibiting in four national OPA shows, OR three national OPA shows and three regional/salon shows within an eight-year period (regional/salon shows must be within the last five years). 2) Committee Review by exhibiting in three national OPA shows, OR two national OPA shows and three OPA regional/salon shows (regional/salon shows must be within the last five years). Associate membership is a prerequisite. Applications for Signature status are reviewed between June 1 and October 15 for approval at the December board meeting. Master Signature Membership: Conferred by the OPA Board of Directors based on exceptional merit and accomplishment. Typically requires prior Signature Membership. Deadline for submission is September 1. Student Membership (Free): For individuals aged 14-23 with an interest in oil painting. Includes participation in the annual student art competition and access to Lunch and Learn webinars. Does not include voting rights or eligibility to hold office. Student Associate Membership ($40): For individuals aged 14-23 working in oil. Includes participation in the annual student art competition, all shows, and online showcases. Does not include voting rights or eligibility to hold office. Collectors’ Circle Membership ($80): For art lovers and collectors, offering exclusive access to members-only events, VIP reception at the National Exhibition, virtual National Catalog, and quarterly Brushstrokes Newsletter. Gallery Membership ($80): Open to galleries wishing to be listed in OPA’s Gallery Preview, provided they represent at least one current OPA member. Application for new members can be completed online or by mail. Renewing and rejoining members can pay dues by logging into their account or mailing a check to the provided PO Box address. Processing may take 2-3 weeks.

What is Offered

Membership services and benefits including eligibility for national and online shows, access to educational webinars, networking opportunities, and a community dedicated to representational art.

Requirements

Applicants must work in the oil medium. Specific requirements apply for Signature and Master Signature memberships, typically involving a history of exhibiting in OPA national, regional, or salon shows. Student memberships have age requirements (14-23 years old). Associate membership is generally a prerequisite for Signature and Master Signature status.

How to Apply

To apply for Associate Membership: New members can apply online by filling out an application and paying dues via the website, or by printing and mailing an application with dues. Renewing members can log into their account on the website or mail a check to Oil Painters of America, PO Box 2488, Crystal Lake, Illinois 60039-2488. Specific online application links are provided for International Associate, Student, Student Associate, Collectors' Circle, and Gallery Memberships. Signature and Master Signature members must submit applications between specific dates for review.