Shows/Events

My painting Bathed in Sunlight (12×24 inches, Oil on Linen Panel) will be included in the 17th Annual Oil Painters of America National Juried Exhibition of Traditional Oils. Only 200 paintings were selected from over 2,000 submissions for inclusion in the show which will be held at Dana Gallery in Missoula, Montana. The opening festivities are scheduled for May 2nd – 4th, 2008. Among many events during opening weekend, renowned artist Ramon Kelley will give a demonstration of his painting approach on May 2nd, and a lecture and presentation about J. W. Waterhouse will be given by Peter Trippi, Editor of Fine Art Connoisseur Magazine. Many of today’s top artists are included in this exhibition and it promises to be an exciting event.

Oil Painters of America was founded in 1991 by Shirl Smithson primarily to focus attention on the lasting value of fine drawing, color, composition and the appreciation of light. As a beginner or a master painter, the feeling of tremendous satisfaction that came from capturing that special moment, realistically and spiritually, was a bond that united us all. Another strong motivation was the observation that traditional drawing and painting skills were not being taught in the colleges and universities. OPA, with Shirl leading the way, became the voice for renewed understanding and appreciation of representational art. Through newspaper articles, radio talk shows and numerous magazine features, OPA’s mission was presented with many examples of outstanding artwork. Fortunately, the message was heard as evidenced by the increased attendance by collectors and the general public at the major art shows and galleries throughout the country. Large museums such as the Art Institute of Chicago have assembled exhibitions by traditional artists like Mary Cassat and Edgar Degas. They have opened their doors to sellout crowds.