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. Membership enrollment for 2026 is now open, with validity from January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026. Available membership categories 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 US, Canada, or Mexico, offering digital benefits and eligibility for online showcases and Wet Paint Competition. Signature Membership ($80) and Master Signature Membership, conferred based on exhibition history and artistic merit. Student Membership (free) for ages 14-23, providing access to student competitions and webinars. Student Associate Membership ($40) for ages 14-23, offering access to all shows and online showcases. Collectors’ Circle Membership ($80) for art lovers and collectors, granting exclusive event access and publications. Gallery Membership ($80) for galleries representing at least one OPA member. Applications can be submitted online or via mail, with processing taking 2-3 weeks.

What is Offered

Eligibility for national and online exhibitions, access to online showcases, digital newsletters and catalogs, email distribution for updates on OPA events, full access to Lunch & Learn webinars and other online presentations, participation in annual student art competitions (for students), VIP reception at OPA’s National Exhibition (for Collectors’ Circle), and voting rights (for eligible membership types).

Requirements

Applicants must be artists working in the oil medium. Student Membership is for individuals aged 14-23. Signature and Master Signature Memberships have specific exhibition history requirements. International Associate Membership is for artists outside of the United States, Canada or Mexico. Associate membership is required for Signature status eligibility.

How to Apply

Apply online by filling out the application and paying dues via the provided button, or apply by mail by printing and completing an application and sending in dues. Renewing members can log in to their account or mail a check to Oil Painters of America PO Box 2488 Crystal Lake, Illinois 60039-2488. Specific deadlines apply for Signature and Master Signature status applications (June 1 - October 15, and September 1 respectively).