Membership Enrollment

About the Open Call

Oil Painters of America (OPA) offers several membership categories for artists working in the oil medium, including Associate, International Associate, Signature, Master Signature, Student, Student Associate, Collectors’ Circle, and Gallery Membership. Membership is valid from January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026. Benefits vary by membership type but can include eligibility to jury for national and regional shows, participation in online showcases, access to digital newsletters and catalogs, full access to Lunch & Learn webinars and other online presentations, participation in annual student art competitions, exclusive access to members-only events, and special invitations to VIP receptions. Eligibility for Signature and Master Signature status requires specific exhibition history with OPA and an application process with deadlines typically between June 1 and October 15 for Signature, and September 1 for Master Signature status. Application can be done online or by mail.

What is Offered

Access to exhibitions, online showcases, educational webinars, newsletters, and community networking, with varying eligibility for competitions and voting rights based on membership tier.

Requirements

Open to all artists working in the oil medium. Specific eligibility criteria apply for different membership levels (e.g., age for student memberships, exhibition history for Signature/Master status, geographic location for International Associate). Associate membership is generally a prerequisite for Signature membership, and Signature for Master Signature. Student membership is for ages 14-23.

How to Apply

Apply online by filling out an application and paying dues, or apply by mail by printing and filling out an application and sending in dues. Renewing members can log in to their account to pay.