Oil Painters of America Membership Enrollment 2026

About the Open Call

The Oil Painters of America (OPA) is dedicated to the preservation of representational art and invites artists to enroll for their 2026 membership, which is valid from January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026. Prorating is not available. This opportunity is open to all artists working in the oil medium, with various membership options available, each requiring payment upon application and a processing time of 2-3 weeks. These tiers include: Associate Membership ($80 USD), open to all oil artists and offering eligibility for all shows, including the National Show, and online showcases. International Associate Membership ($80 USD) is for artists outside the United States, Canada, or Mexico, providing digital newsletters, catalogs, email updates, full access to online presentations, and eligibility for the Spring Online Showcase and Wet Paint Competition; however, these members are not eligible for OPA physical exhibitions. Signature Membership ($80 USD) requires specific exhibition history in national, regional, or salon shows and an application between June 1 and October 15 for approval. Master Signature Membership is conferred by the OPA Board for exceptional merit, typically requiring prior Signature status, with a submission deadline of September 1. Student Membership (Free) is for individuals aged 14-23 interested in oil painting, allowing participation in the annual student art competition and Lunch & Learn webinars. Student Associate Membership ($40 USD) is also for ages 14-23, providing eligibility for the student art competition, all shows, and online showcases. Collectors’ Circle Membership ($80 USD) offers art lovers and collectors exclusive access to OPA events, a VIP reception at the National Exhibition, virtual catalogs, and newsletters. Gallery Membership ($80 USD) allows galleries representing at least one OPA member to be listed in OPA’s Gallery Preview. Additional tax-deductible contributions are also welcomed.

What is Offered

Membership benefits including eligibility for national and online shows (depending on tier), participation in online showcases, access to digital newsletters, catalogs, Lunch & Learn webinars, and other online presentations. Opportunities to achieve Signature and Master Signature status, networking with peers, and supporting representational art. Collectors' Circle members receive exclusive access to events and VIP receptions.

Requirements

Applicants must be artists working in the oil medium. Specific exhibition history is required for Signature and Master Signature memberships, and Student Memberships are for individuals aged 14 to 23. Associate membership is a prerequisite for Signature and Master Signature statuses.

How to Apply

To apply, artists can either apply online by filling out an application and paying dues through the provided button or apply by mail by printing and filling out an application and sending in dues. Renewing and rejoining members can login to their account online or mail a check to Oil Painters of America, PO Box 2488, Crystal Lake, Illinois 60039-2488. Specific application periods apply for Signature and Master Signature statuses.