Oil Painters of America

OPA Bids Farewell to Its Greatest Fan the Legendary, One-of-A-Kind Joyce Pike OPAM (1929 – 2022)

Oil Painters of America · Nov 14, 2022 · 6 Comments

To our OPA community, we sadly announce the passing of one of the all-time greats, Master Signature artist Joyce Pike. Growing up in California, Joyce always knew she was destined to be an artist. She began her formal art studies with Sergei Bongart at the age of twenty-three, and later continued with Viona Ann Kendall and Howard Reed. With hard work and perseverance, she earned her spot as one of the country’s premier artists, widely recognized for her beautiful impressionist floral still lifes and landscapes. When OPA created the Master Signature designation in 1997, Joyce was one of only 3 women to receive this prestigious honor, proving that women could be just as successful as their male counterparts in what was then considered a male-led industry.

A natural teacher, Joyce became a sought-after educator who inspired several generations of art students over her 50+ years of teaching. She was a regular instructor at the prestigious Scottsdale Artists’ School and taught for many years at the Art League of Los Angeles and the Los Angeles Valley College. Joyce authored several how-to-paint books through Northlight Publishing and went on to produce over forty-five one-hour painting videos.

Neil Patterson OPAM presents Joyce Pike OPAM with the Golden Brush Award

In 2012, Joyce received OPA’s highest honor, the Golden Brush Award, given to an outstanding member who embodies the spirit of volunteerism and generously gives of his/her time and expertise for the betterment of the organization. As one of OPA’s biggest fans, Joyce spent countless hours working on behalf of OPA. For many years, Joyce wrote regularly for OPA’s Brushstrokes newsletter. Later, she would Co-Chair OPA’s Master Signature Advisory Committee with Zhiwei Tu OPAM. Over the course of her involvement with OPA, she would be called on numerous times to jury, exhibit, locate potential galleries, demonstrate, or participate in the organization’s educational programs. More importantly, Joyce served as a sounding board for hundreds of OPA artists, providing them with sage advice, inspiration, and encouragement.

Over and above everything, Joyce was all about faith, family, and friends. She felt enormously blessed to have lived such a wonderful and full life. With her family by her side, Joyce spent her final weeks doing what she loved most, painting. As if on cue, Joyce put the final touches on her last painting and passed away peacefully in the days to follow, surrounded by loved ones.

Joyce will be greatly missed, but her legacy will live on for many years to come.

Zhiwei Tu OPAM

L to R: Master Signature artists Zhiwei Tu, Joyce Pike, and Calvin Liang

I was very sorry to hear that OPA Master Joyce Pike recently passed away. Joyce was an exceptional artist who spent many years volunteering her time and expertise to Oil Painters of America. In the early 90’s, she called many people encouraging them to join the organization. She worked tirelessly spending hours helping OPA Founder Shirl Smithson build OPA into one of today’s leading art organizations in North America. For 20 years, Joyce served as the Chair of the Master Signature Advisory Committee. In 2007 she asked me to serve as the Co-Chair of the Master Signature Advisory Committee, but she did the most work to let me have more time to create art.

More importantly, Joyce was a dear friend always looking out for my best interests. She visited my studio many times and offered me praise and encouragement to continue my painting and to write many articles on my art. She always said that I was her Chinese son and treated me like a son.

Thank you so much Joyce – we will miss you forever!

Scott Royston OPAM

Words cannot describe what a beautiful lady Joyce was to not only me but to the art community. Her loss will never be forgotten. Not only was she a friend and a mentor but also a sister in Christ. She gave every bit of her gifts to glorify God. She’s shared her knowledge freely to encourage others to grow in their careers as artists and I am grateful to be one of those people. The last call that I received from Joyce was basically telling me goodbye. She knew she was going to be with the Lord very soon and to this day it just brings tears to my eyes when I think about that phone call. It hit me even harder than the call that I got telling me that she had passed. But her spirit and her memory will always live on and I will always remember her with every painting I do. Joyce, if you can hear my voice, I want you to know that I love you and could you just ask the Lord to save a small place for me in heaven as I look forward to seeing you again soon. Grace.

Myles Herman

Approximately a week or so before Joyce passed, she called to say goodbye. She was almost in a celebratory mood since she was finally going to go be with GOD. She was hoping for this for some time. In her typical helpful style (a little tongue in cheek) she stated when I get there, “I’m going to teach God to paint”. She seemed to be truly looking forward to that experience. She passed on all of her love and gratitude to Cilia (my wife) and I, as well as all who have touched her life.

OPA’S FIRST VIRTUAL CONVENTION TAKES PLACE THIS WEEK

Oil Painters of America · Sep 14, 2020 · Leave a Comment

If you watched the 2020 National Awards Ceremony on Thursday evening, September 10, or took part in the International Wet Paint Competition you know that our Convention is now under way. If you participated in the Wet Paint event you are already registered for the remainder of the 2020 OPA Convention. If you have not signed up yet, there is still time. Convention activities will resume with the virtual awards ceremony announcing the winners of the International Wet Paint Competition on Thursday, September 17. The following is a condensed version of the presentations and activities planned for this year’s convention, with a number of world renowned artists and speakers offering their insights in the world of art, and related topics.

On Thursday evening, September 17, at 6:30 p.m. Central Time, Juror of Awards John Pototschnik OPA will announce his decisions concerning the winners of OPA’s First International Wet Paint Competition. This event was open to all current OPA members, as well as non-OPA artists throughout the world, with awards being given in three separate divisions: OPA member plein air, OPA member studio, and non-OPA member open division. You may view the International Wet Paint Competition Awards Ceremony live on Facebook or if you are registered for the Convention you may view it on Zoom.

Following the Awards Ceremony past OPA president, Kurt Anderson OPA will present a talk on the importance of representational oil painting in today’s current art scene. He will include insights into the significant role that OPA is playing in the pursuit of our mission of advancing “the cause of traditional, representational fine art by drawing attention to the lasting value of fine drawing, color, composition and the appreciation of light” and “preserving and promoting excellence in representational art”.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18

Convention activities begin again on Friday morning, September 18, at 10:00 a.m. with Signature member David Dibble’s address on how to “Change Your Studies, Change Your Art”. Da vid will explain how his attention to the elements of value, shape, color and composition work into his creation of paintings that embody clarity and conviction after first having been created as small plein air or studio studies.

A short break, from 11:15 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., will follow David’s presentation.

Attorney John DiGiacomo, Esq. will begin his lecture on “Intellectual Property Protection for Artists” at 11:30 a.m. With extensive experience in intellectual property, internet law, corporate law and international law, John will discuss how to ensure the safety of your intellectual property; the creations of your mind such as your artistic works and designs. His vast knowledge of this area of information is attested to by his having appeared in front of courts of appeals and arbitration organizations such as the World Intellectual Property organization and the South African Institute of Intellectual Property Law.

Take a break for lunch from 12:45 p.m. to 1:15 p.m.

OPA member Rusty Jones opens the Friday afternoon session with a demonstration of his talent of painting Western American landscape, reminiscent of John Singer Sargent, Julian Onderdon, Portofino Salinas, and Edgar Payne. His use of colors and depth of perception draw the spectator into his paintings, making one feel as if they are not looking at a canvas but standing on the edge of a field, lake or whatever the landscape.

A short break, from 2:30 p.m. to 2:45 p.m., will follow Rusty’s demonstration.

National Exhibition Juror of Awards, Rose Frantzen, will be interviewed by the editor of American Art Collector and Western Art Collector Magazines, Joshua Rose, from 2:45 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Well known throughout the world for her figurative works, landscapes, and still lifes, Rose is not afraid to incorporate diverse stylistic elements into her works that bring contemporary perspectives to her traditional alla prima approach. Find out more about her through Joshua’s personal interview

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19

OPA Signature Member Kelli Folsom opens Saturday morning with her still life demonstration “Taking Risks and Painting Bold”. Having received her B.F.A. from Lyme Academy of Fine Arts, in Old Lyme, CT, Kelli has a background in life drawing, painting, and sculpture with in-depth study and classical techniques. She prides herself on painting directly from life in one or two sittings to pass on the perception and experience to the viewer. Kelli will impart information on how she creates her feelings of intimacy with subjects through her paintings.

A short break, from 11:15 a.m. to 11:30, a.m. will follow Kelli’s presentation.

From 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. CMO of Boldbrush and FASO (Fine Art Studio Online), Dave Geada, will present his lecture “Breaking Through the Artist’s Wall; How to Create and Sell More Art While Spending Less Time Marketing”. Dave will help artists move to their next level of marketing and step around the stumbling blocks that might be inhibiting their art sales. He will present a better way to market art online, a topic that is of particular importance during these times of social distancing and limited physical exhibitions. Learn from Dave how to spend less time and get better results.

Take a break for lunch from 12:30 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Susan Hotard OPA will round out the day of demonstrations with her presentation “How to Create a Great Portrait” from 1:00 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. Well known for her beautiful, lifelike portraits Susan will demonstrate how she captures the tones and textures of her subjects’ faces and embraces the subtle expressions of children as well as adults. Susan has taught portrait, figurative, and still life workshops in Texas and Louisiana.

A short break, from 2:15p.m. to 2:30 p.m., will follow Susan’s presentation.

A group critique session will be the final presentation of the day from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Some of OPA’s most well respected artists will offer their expertise on a handful of pre-selected paintings. This is a good way to hear input on a multitude of styles and subjects which might introduce you to an idea that you have not had before this time.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THE 2020 NATIONAL CONVENTION

Checking in with OPA Board Members during Covid-19

Oil Painters of America · Apr 27, 2020 · Leave a Comment

We thought it would be interesting to ask some of our Board Members what they have been up to since being quarantined. Here’s what they have to say:

Bill Suys OPA

I came home from teaching at the Scottsdale Artists School on Feb. 8 and fell unbelievably ill for about 3 weeks. An already scheduled chest scan showed either pneumonia or covid-like areas, which tells me I have fully made the transition from an ‘invincible’ young man to one of the ‘vulnerable’.

The incredible shutdown that followed made it clear that this is an economic threat as much as a medical threat. As much as ‘Art’ means to us, there will be an impact on our sales. As I described in my OPA blog on March 30, it is time to focus on the ONE thing that makes us artists. The PROCESS of art and creation is why I’ve done this my entire life, and the past year has convinced me I need to rededicate myself to focusing on my artistic soul.

I believe the highest level of productivity is ‘creative productivity’ — whether in business or Art — and it is best nurtured when many factors come together to create a creative environment. The pandemic was not conducive to this environment, and the disorganization in my studio had gotten to a point where I knew this was a time to take charge and make some changes!

My studio is not huge, but I wanted to create a more welcoming ‘nest’ that would encourage me to dwell and focus on why I do what I do. The first step was to order a reading chair that would allow me to take advantage of the many beautiful art books I’ve accumulated, and I want to take the time to absorb what they have to teach me. At the same time, I will be able to look around and view my recent work with an eye on how I can drill down to what each existing piece needs to grow, and what I need to consider and explore if I hope to grow as an Artist.

I have gone through a challenging period over the past year or two as I I have gone through a challenging period over the past year or two as I have felt the urge to go ‘deeper’, but I know this inner pull is a healthy thing. This mess has done a lot to derail all of us, but I, for one, am starting to feel I’m on the right path and I’m excited to dig in.

Susan Abma

I have been trying to view the ‘downtime’ because of Covid-19 as a bit of a blessing in the way of time. It has given me more time to stop and smell (okay see) the ‘roses’ that our members are producing. Great work by Dave Santillanes, Bill Farnsworth, John Lasater, Heather Burton and Jing Zhao to mention just a few. Some, like J. Kenneth Grody, impressively took on a self-portrait challenge. Others, like me, took the time to regroup.

I am always tidy in my studio, except at the easel perhaps. 🙂 The Covid-19 is taken really seriously here as well (I’m in Alberta, Canada), so I haven’t left home in about a month.

As a result, my studio is even more organized than usual.

I have four large upright metal cabinets in my studio that hold art cards, paint, pencils, etc. in small plastic drawers. It makes my life easy. I can grab anything I need quickly.

The initial investment was not teeny, but I have had them more than 20 years and they’re still like new. For me, it was money well spent

Jane Hunt OPA

“Because my family is high risk, we’ve been quarantined for almost 6 weeks. I admit, for the first three or four I wasn’t handling it very well…reading too much news, and panicking because I couldn’t get my daughter’s seizure medication for weeks amid the shortages! Once I got the essentials figured out…acquiring meds, food delivery etc., I started to feel less overwhelmed.

It took almost a month, but I was finally able to pick a up paintbrush and get back to work. Best decision I could’ve made! Immersing myself in the thing that I love helped to challenge and distract my mind. Over the last week or so I’ve started to feel more like myself again. No matter how bad things seem, I think it’s always therapeutic to get back to painting.

Attached: a piece from a couple of days ago ‘cloudscape’ 11×14 will be headed to the reimagined Olmsted Plein Air (the show will be all virtual this year).”

Stephanie Birdsall OPA

This Coronavirus downtime has made a subtle difference in my days. It has given me the time to clean my studio and make new brush holders. Something I’ve wanted to do for a long time. But I feel like I’m a little in slow motion. I’m spending more time teaching my students through FaceTime, zooming, being sure that I check up on my friends that are alone.

It has given me the time to explore my neighborhood in Ct on foot because there are so few cars. I live on a very narrow, winding, hilly road, surrounded by homes dating back to the 1700’s. I’m finding so many places to plein air, as soon as the weather holds up. The slow spring coming to CT, seems to play to the slower days. I’m enjoying the peace, though . I find I’m meditating more, and watching podcasts of people I admire.

I feel like I’m recharging my batteries, getting ready to explode into spring!

We hope you have enjoyed hearing from some of our Board members. Please let us know how you have been spending your time during COVID-19.

An Interview With Master Ned Mueller

Oil Painters of America · May 1, 2017 · 2 Comments

Ned is a designated “Master with both the Oil Painters of America and The American Impressionist Society,” and is this year’s Distinguished Artist at Oil Painters of America National Exhibition in Cincinnati, Ohio, this coming May.

“Ned is a very accomplished and highly respected artist, having been drawing and painting for over 65 years. He is a graduate of the prestigious Art Center School of Design in Los Angeles where as still a student he also taught drawing classes. He has participated in many of the major invitational shows in the country, including the “Artist’s of America Show”, “Great American Artist’s Show”, “Prix de West Show”, “Oil Painters of America”, “Laguna Plein Air Show”, “Pastel Society of America”, “The Autry Western Masters Show”, “The Northwest Rendezvous Show” and the annual “Plein Air Painters of America Exhibition.”
He shows in some of the Finest Galleries in the country, has won numerous awards and is included in many private fine art collections. He is a Master Signature member of the Oil Painters of America, Plein Air Painters of America, California Art Club, Northwest Pastel Society, Puget Sound Group of Northwest Artists, Northwest Rendezvous Group, and the American Society of Marine Artists. Ned is the only Artist in the Northwest that has been designated as “Master Artist” status with both the Oil Painters of America and the American Impressionist Society. He continues to challenge himself to grow artistically. Ned has been asked to jury Regional and National Art Shows and he loves to teach and share his many years of knowledge and experience by teaching classes and workshops, regionally, nationally and internationally.”

***All Images Contained Within This Video Are The Works Of Ned Mueller And Are Protected Under His Copyright***

Plein Air Workshop
8/18/2017 – 8/20/2017
Plein Air Workshop
10/26/2017 – 10/28/2017
You can obtain more information at:
ScottsdaleArtistsSchool.com

OPA's 2016 National Juried Exhibition

Oil Painters of America · Jun 6, 2016 · Leave a Comment

Meet the Gold Medal Winners from the 25th National Juried Exhibition

Derek Penix is OPA’s 2016 Salon Show Gold Award Winner for Associate/Signature Division.

Derek Penix was born on December 29, 1980 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Penix grew up watching members of his family paint but didn’t pursue painting himself until after high school. After trying his hand at painting and selling his first piece he knew this was what he wanted to do for the rest of his life.
Over the years Penix’s work has changed greatly and continues to evolve with each painting. “I never want to be stuck painting only one way or only one subject matter. Variety is the spice of life and is especially that way for me with painting.”
Penix has had the opportunity to work under Quang Ho and later with C.W. Mundy. “They have helped me as an artist immensely. I am so thankful that they have been willing to feed into my life as they have.”
Penix has been recognized in many national competitions and publications. Even at a young age Penix was recognized in South West Art Magazine’s “21 Under 31” in 2010 and Oklahoma Magazine’s “40 Under 40” in 2014. 

Liu Huihan OPAM is OPA’s 2016 Salon Show Gold Award Winner for Master Signature Division.

Liu, Huihan born in 1952 in Guangzhou China. Huihan graduate from Guangzhou Academy of Fine Art in Oil Painting Department with BA in 1975. He taught in the Art School of Guangzhou Academy of Fine Art in 1979-1985. Huihan was a candidate and was accepted by Graduate school of Guangzhou Academy of Fine Art in 1985. He went to the United State of America to further his study in 1987, graduated from the Graduate School of the Academy of Art College in San Francisco with an M.F.A. in 1989. Huihan taught in the Academy of Art University in San Francisco in 1993-2005. He is a Graduate School Adviser at Academy of Art University.
When he was in China, he had been participated many show exhibitions both in regional and national. Since Huihan has moved to the United States, he has been participating in many national painting shows and invitational exhibitions. His paintings have won many awards and have been collected by both private collectors and museums such as: “Gold Medal for Best Painting” in California Art Club’s 92nd Annual Juried Exhibition; “First Place Winner” 9th Annual Mission San Juan Capistrano Plein Air Painting Event, Wilmington Trust Purchase Collection; “First Place Painting” Plein air exhibition in Bower Museum of Culture Art, Bowers Museum Contemporary Plein air Permanent Collection in Santa Ana ; “Best of Show In Painting-John Scott people’s choice Award” The 25th Western rendezvous of Art, Helena; “Gold Medal for the Master Signature Division at the Oil Painters of America Western Regional Show; “Members’ Choice Award for The Master Signature Division in Oil Painters of America National Exhibition. In 2012, Huihan’s painting “Spring of Miao Village” has been selected by the Organization committee for the Olympic Fine Arts 2012 (London), which was exhibited in London during the 30th Olympic Games in London, was permanent collection by the National Museum in China. Huihan’s work was featured in articles by many leading national artist/collector magazines such as Art of The West; Southwest Art Magazine; The International Artists Magazine and The Artist’ Magazine. Huihan conducts a few invitational painting workshops both in the United States and abroad.
Huihan and his wife Liang, Weizhen are both full time painters live in Kensington in the Bay Area of San Francisco. They both love to travel and have many trips to Tibet, France, Italy, and Taiwan for their painting subjects. His son, Liu Jian graduated in Cornell University in 2008.
Huihan is an Artist Member of Guangdong Artists’ Association China, Master Signature Member of Oil Painters of America, Master Member of American Impressionist Society, an Artist Signature Member of California Art Club, School of Art & Design Guangzhou University Professor in China.