Compete OPA National Salon: Exhibition of Small Paintings
Opportunity Description
U.S. National Deadline: June 12, 2026 – Oil Painters of America invites submissions for the 2026 National Salon, an exhibition of small-format representational oil paintings hosted by Cassens Fine Art in Hamilton, Montana, on view July 31–August 29, 2026.
This juried exhibition will showcase approximately 180 outstanding works of excellence in draftsmanship, color, and composition while celebrating diversity in style and subject matter. Up to $20,000 in cash and merchandise awards will be presented.
Don’t miss this opportunity to exhibit among today’s top oil painters! Submissions are accepted online from April 1 through June 12, 2026. Learn more and apply through Oil Painters of America.
ELIGIBILITY
Membership is required to enter, and applications are currently being accepted. (you can apply online for membership prior to entry).
- Only original paintings are acceptable for entry. They must be created by hand, solely by the artist submitting the painting and be original in concept and design.
- Paintings must be created on one singular flat substrate and framed and wired for hanging.
- Canvas size: May not exceed 320 square inches (unframed). Example: 16” height x 20” width = 320 sq. in
- Paintings must have been created within the last 5 years
- 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.
AWARDS
The total awards will be approximately $30,000 in cash and merchandise.
FEES
$35 first painting, $15 second painting, $10 third painting. Only one painting can be accepted. Membership is required to enter, and applications are currently being accepted. (you can apply online for membership prior to entry).
APPLY ONLINE
Download Prospectus. Acceptance notification June 26, 2026.
SALES
Artists will receive 50% of sale price. Please take this into consideration when setting your price. All work that is submitted must be for sale and priced in accordance with the artist’s current pricing structure.
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
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