Oil Painters of America - 2026 Membership Enrollment

About the Open Call

2026 Membership enrollment for the Oil Painters of America (OPA) is open, with membership valid from January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026. OPA supports and promotes traditional, representational art, encouraging all artists working in the oil medium to apply. Membership processing typically takes 2-3 weeks, and payment is required upon application. Available membership options include: * **Associate Membership ($80):** Open to all artists working with oil medium, eligible to jury for all shows including the National Show and participate in all online showcases. * **International Associate Membership ($80):** For artists outside the United States, Canada, or Mexico. Benefits include digital newsletters, catalogs, email updates, full access to Lunch & Learn webinars and online presentations. Eligible for Spring Online Showcase and Wet Paint Competition at the annual convention, but generally not physical OPA exhibitions. May vote but cannot hold office. * **Signature Membership ($80):** Conferred through exhibiting in national and/or regional/salon OPA shows within specific timeframes, or via committee review. Requires prior Associate membership. Application window is June 1 to October 15 for December board approval. * **Master Signature Membership:** Conferred by the OPA Board for exceptional merit and accomplishment. Requires prior Signature membership. Submission deadline is September 1. * **Student Membership (Free):** For individuals aged 14-23 with an interest in oil painting. Includes participation in the annual student art competition and access to Lunch & Learn webinars. No voting rights or office-holding. * **Student Associate Membership ($40):** For individuals aged 14-23 working in oil. Includes participation in the annual student art competition, all shows, and online showcases. No voting rights or office-holding. * **Collectors’ Circle Membership ($80):** For art lovers and collectors, offering exclusive access to members-only events, VIP reception at OPA’s National Exhibition, virtual National Catalog, virtual Quarterly Brushstrokes Newsletter, and invitations to all exhibitions and events. * **Gallery Membership ($80):** For galleries representing at least one current OPA member, includes listing in OPA’s Gallery Preview. Additional tax-deductible contributions are also welcomed to support OPA's mission.

What is Offered

Membership benefits include eligibility to jury for national shows, participation in online showcases, access to digital newsletters and catalogs, general email distribution, full access to Lunch & Learn webinars and online presentations, eligibility for awards, voting rights (for certain membership types), VIP receptions at National Exhibitions, invitations to exhibitions and events, and inclusion in the OPA’s Gallery Preview for gallery members.

Requirements

Artists must work in the oil medium. Specific requirements vary by membership type: Associate Membership is open to all oil artists. Signature and Master Signature memberships require specific exhibition history within OPA. Student memberships are for individuals aged 14-23. International Associate Membership is for artists outside the US, Canada, or Mexico. Gallery Membership requires representing at least one current OPA member. Prior membership is required for Signature and Master Signature status upgrades.

How to Apply

Apply online by filling out the application and paying dues via the website, or apply by mail by printing and completing an application form and sending in dues to Oil Painters of America PO Box 2488 Crystal Lake, Illinois 60039-2488. Renewing members can log into their account to pay dues.