Compete Oil Painters of America’s 35th National Juried Exhibition
Opportunity Description
U.S. National Deadline: March 6, 2026 – Don’t miss your chance to be part of one of the most prestigious showcases of representational oil painting in North America! Oil Painters of America invites you to enter the 35th National Juried Exhibition, hosted by the Steamboat Art Museum in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, on view May 29–August 29, 2026.
This exceptional exhibition will showcase the finest works in draftsmanship, color, and composition, featuring a diverse range of styles and subjects.
ELIGIBILITY
Artists eligible to compete are citizens – both natural born or otherwise – of the continent of North America who are OPA members (you can apply online for membership prior to entry).
- Paintings must be created on one singular flat substrate and framed and wired for hanging. Multiples are unacceptable – i.e., diptychs, triptychs. The substrate must not exceed the maximum size set forth in the prospectus. Be sure to read each prospectus carefully, as the acceptable size of the substrate changes depending on the gallery/museum.
- Your submission must be originally conceived: your own reference, your own drawing, your own concept and must have been self-painted.
- No direct copies of stock images, historic photos, or of any reference to which you do not hold total copyright are allowed.
- Paintings created in an instructional setting, including but not limited to workshops and art classes are not considered original artwork.
- All paintings must be framed and wired for hanging.
- Painting must have been created within the last 3 years.
AWARDS
The total national awards will be approximately $100,000 in cash and merchandise, including a $25,000 Best In Show.
FEES
The jurying fee for entries is: first painting is $35.00, second painting is $15.00 and third painting is $10. Only one painting can be accepted. You must be a paid member through December 31, 2024 at a cost of $80.00. If you are not a member of OPA you must apply and be accepted before you enter the exhibition here.
APPLY ONLINE
Visit us for complete Prospectus and easy online entry. Acceptance notification March 27, 2026.
SALES
All work must be for sale. No NFS. Paintings that do not reflect the artist’s current pricing structure may be disqualified from the competition. Artists will receive 50% of sale price with the other 50% going to the Steamboat Art Museum and OPA.
About:
Oil Painters of America (OPA) is a not-for-profit organization representing more than 4,000 artists throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico. Founded in 1991,OPA is dedicated to preserving and promoting excellence in representational art. Its primary focus is to draw attention to the lasting value of fine drawing, color, composition and the appreciation of light.
The mission of OPA is to advance the cause of traditional, representational fine art by providing a forum in which artists can display their art in regional and national competitions. In addition, the organization is committed to providing educational opportunities to its members through its newsletter, critique program, scholarships, workshops, seminars, and demonstrations by today’s masters.
Oil Painters of America (OPA)
P.O. Box 2488
Crystal Lake, Illinois 60039-2488
Phone: 815-356-5987
About:
Housed in the iconic First National Bank/Rehder Building (1905/1920) and on the National Registry of Historic Places, Steamboat Art Museum is located in the heart of downtown Steamboat Springs. Established in 2006, the museum presents rotating exhibitions of artwork by living masters whose work is relevant to the culture and heritage of the West. The Steamboat Art Museum is accessible to all, open to everyone and admission is free.
Steamboat Art Museum
807 Lincoln Ave.
Steamboat Springs, CO 80487
