Oil Painters of America 2026 Membership Enrollment

About the Open Call

The Oil Painters of America (OPA) offers various membership categories for 2026, valid from January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026. Categories include Associate Membership ($80) for all oil artists, International Associate Membership ($80) for artists outside the US, Canada, or Mexico, Signature Membership, Master Signature Membership, Student Membership (free for ages 14-23), Student Associate Membership ($40 for ages 14-23), Collectors’ Circle Membership ($80), and Gallery Membership ($80). Associate members are eligible to jury for all shows, including the National Show, and participate in online showcases. International members receive digital newsletters and catalogs, access to webinars, and can apply to the Spring Online Showcase. Signature and Master Signature statuses have specific exhibition requirements and application periods. Student members can participate in an annual student art competition and webinars. Application can be done online or by mail.

What is Offered

Membership benefits vary by category but generally include eligibility for OPA shows (including National Show and online showcases), digital newsletters and catalogs, access to Lunch & Learn webinars and other online presentations, special invitations to VIP receptions, voting rights (for some categories), and participation in annual student art competitions.

Requirements

Applicants must be artists working in the oil medium. Specific requirements apply for Signature and Master Signature memberships, including prior exhibition history with OPA. Student membership is for individuals aged 14-23. International Associate Membership is for artists residing outside the United States, Canada, or Mexico. Must be an Associate member to be eligible for Signature status. Must be a Signature member to be eligible for Master Signature status.

How to Apply

To apply for Associate Membership, new members can apply online by filling out an application and paying dues, or apply by mail by printing an application and sending in dues. Renewing and rejoining members can log in to their account to pay dues or mail a check to Oil Painters of America, PO Box 2488, Crystal Lake, Illinois 60039-2488. Specific online application links are provided for each membership type.