Membership

About the Open Call

2026 Membership enrollment for Oil Painters of America is currently open, with membership valid from January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026. OPA supports and promotes traditional, representational art, and all artists working in the oil medium are encouraged to apply. Membership processing typically takes 2-3 weeks, and payment is required upon application. Available membership tiers include: Associate Membership ($80) for all oil artists, offering eligibility for all shows (including National) and online showcases. International Associate Membership ($80) for artists outside the US, Canada, or Mexico, providing digital newsletters, catalog, email updates, access to online webinars, and eligibility for the Spring Online Showcase competition and Wet Paint Competition awards. Signature Membership ($80) requires specific exhibition history (e.g., four National OPA shows or a combination of National, Regional, or Salon shows) and an application between June 1 and October 15. Master Signature Membership is conferred based on exceptional merit and accomplishment, with a submission deadline of September 1, and requires prior Signature Membership. Student Membership (free) is for individuals aged 14-23 interested in oil painting, offering participation in the annual student art competition and access to Lunch and Learn webinars. Student Associate Membership ($40) is for students aged 14-23, allowing participation in student art competitions, all shows, and online showcases. Collectors’ Circle Membership ($80) provides exclusive access to OPA events, a VIP reception at the National Exhibition, a virtual National Catalog, and a virtual Quarterly Brushstrokes Newsletter. Gallery Membership ($80) is for galleries representing at least one current OPA member, for inclusion in OPA’s Gallery Preview. Additional tax-deductible contributions are also welcome.

What is Offered

Membership benefits include eligibility to participate in national and online shows and showcases, digital newsletters and catalogs, access to Lunch & Learn webinars and other online presentations, opportunities for awards in competitions, voting rights (for some tiers), exclusive access to members-only events, special invitations to VIP receptions, and listing in the OPA’s Gallery Preview (for Gallery Members).

Requirements

Open to all artists working in the oil medium. Specific requirements apply for different membership tiers: Associate Membership is open to all oil artists; International Associate for artists outside US, Canada, or Mexico; Signature and Master Signature require specific exhibition history; Student Memberships are for individuals aged 14-23; Gallery Membership requires 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 mail by printing an application and sending in dues. Renewing and rejoining members can log into their account on the OPA website or mail their check to Oil Painters of America PO Box 2488 Crystal Lake, Illinois 60039-2488. Applications for Signature and Master Signature status have specific submission windows.