If you didn’t make it to the 22nd National Exhibition & Convention this month in Fredericksburg, TX, you missed a lot. It was better than ever. But don’t despair, just begin planning and saving for next year!
Events like these are reminders of who we are and who we want to be. This year, I met so many top artists for the first time — artists I had interviewed and written stories about but never met or whose artwork I had not seen in person. While you can read all the books, magazines or surf the net from dawn to dusk — each helpful and invigorating in their own ways — to be face-to-face with the art and the artist is like drawing a Royal Flush in a Vegas poker game!
The exhibition itself was superb, presenting an amazing array of talent, subject matter, and style. At any other show, we might expect to see a handful of paintings that knock our socks off, blow our hair back or electrify our senses—but the exhibition at Insight Gallery this year hit all those categories and more. Painting after painting revealed craftsmanship any professional artist would be proud to call their own; paintings that exemplified what can be achieved with hard work and dedication. Underscoring the impression the show made on me were the many red dots that caught my eye and told me that art lovers felt the same.
Once the reception was over, the crowd gathered for another exciting awards ceremony—replete with surprises, awards and well-earned nods for the winners from their peers. It was time to celebrate and acknowledge the culmination of months of preparation by many of the finest artists in America. We wish every one of you who participated could have been there too.
By Sunday morning, Insight gallery owner Meredith Plesko told me that 40 paintings had already been sold. Checking in with her this past week, she informed me that the count is now well over 50 and has amassed nearly $200,000 in sales. Plesko was still awaiting several clients who had their sights on larger pieces, which leads her to believe that totals will undoubtedly rise even higher. The gallery loved hosting the OPA and, speaking on behalf of those who attended, all had a fantastic time!
Southwest Art magazine again put on their first-class opening event, the “Pampered Paint Out,” this year and Kimberly Moore whipped up an unforgettable day, including a continental breakfast, lunch and a wine and cheese send-off to help revive tired artists who painted the hours away.
When Friday night rolled around, it was time to relax and enjoy a beautiful evening during American Art Collector magazine’s “Party Under the Stars, Texas Style.” Dining outside under a glorious old oak tree at the historic Pat’s Dance Hall, guests spent the night sampling some of the best barbeque in Texas and listening to one of Austin’s hottest up-and-coming country bands, “The Lonesome Heroes Band.” It was a perfect end to a perfect day. Thanks to Joshua Rose, Amy Gause and Alex McKee for putting together such a memorable event for OPA members!
However, competing and sharing with colleagues, as well as the wonderful opportunity to network and party with vendors and new friends, is only a part of the convention’s value. There were demos by such masters as Sherrie McGraw (this year’s judge of awards), Kenn Backhaus, Scott Burdick, John Michael Carter, John Cosby, and Elizabeth Robbins. We all learn from watching those who wield a skillful brush and, this year more than ever, we came away inspired. I think what impressed me most about the demonstrations were how generous and kind each artist was as they shared their insights and answered questions. There were no showboats, no posturing—only stars within our tribe bent on helping us all move forward. They appeared so at ease. They were in their natural element and among friends.
Friday, Saturday and Sunday each brought presentations touching on various aspects of a professional artists’ life. Each speaker contributed insights to our understanding of all that this crazy business requires.
One of my favorite presentation events was Southwest Art’s editor-in-chief Kristin Hoerth’s interview with Sherrie McGraw on Sunday morning. Hoerth delved into McGraw’s life and influences, and the artist responded with warmth and wit and practical advice. To achieve what McGraw has achieved and to see the quality of her craftsmanship reminds us all that hard work and determination pay off. Now and then we see an artist attain a flash of popularity only to fade from view shortly thereafter. But the real masters lay down a solid foundation and then add to it brick by brick, year by year, challenging themselves, extending a hand to others, and remaining open to life and art. Sherrie is truly one of those.
As we prepared to say our goodbyes, we had a last reminder of the practical side of art as a profession. Bill Bush, owner of Frederickburg Artists’ School and a certified public accountant, shared his thirty years of experience dealing with such issues as taxes, insurance, agent relationships, gallery representation, and the finer points of “doing business.” We left fully charged!
This was a long post, but for those who couldn’t be with us in Fredericksburg, I wanted to share how rich the national exhibition and convention experience can be. I wanted to urge you now to begin planning for next year’s so you can take it all in for yourself. You won’t be sorry.
For those who were there, you each did your part. You painted Fred RED—and they won’t soon forget you!
Events
Party Hearty! For the Fourth Year, American Art Collector Sponsors a Great Shindig!
Friday night at the OPA national exhibition, American Art Collector (AAC) magazine will throw a party to be remembered. This year’s will take up Texas flavor and go all out—great food and music under the stars at Pat’s Hall, a historic Texas dancehall, surrounded by some of the most talented artists in the country. What more could you ask for?
As is always the case, the staff of AAC puts a lot of thought into producing their signature event, and this year is no exception. Editor Joshua Rose gives us the inside scoop:
On an earlier visit to Fredericksburg, we discovered a local BBQ joint called Cranky Franks. We immediately fell in love with their pulled pork and BBQ’d chicken and have eaten there on every subsequent trip. When we found out that this year’s party would be in Fred, there was no question who we’d have cater it.
And on a trip to Santa Fe, we met The Lonesome Heroes, an Austin-based country-western duo. They are wonderful singers, songwriters, and performers, and we all became friends quickly. We are very excited that they’ve agreed to come down from Austin to play for our party!
Imagine this—sitting on picnic benches under a giant, historic oak, drinking lemonade, eating some of the best BBQ you’ll ever taste and listening to the beautiful songs of one of Texas’s best country-western duos. We can’t think of a better way to spend a night in Fredericksburg, Texas.
Amy Elliott Gause, AAC’s sales and marketing director, is equally excited about this year’s event: “We couldn’t have found a better place to host our annual party at the OPA National Exhibition. This just might be our best yet—and we are currently arranging for the group of elk who showed up last year to make a special appearance this year as well!”
All I can say is YUM—great BBQ and music under that vast Texas sky, good-looking cowboys, sexy cowgirls, terrific sponsors, and hundreds of creative friends who love to talk about art. My kind of fun—
As the song goes, “The stars at night are big and bright, deep in the heart of Texas—” See you under the oak tree!
View some photos from last year’s American Art Collector’s party
Southwest Art adds flair to the 22nd Annual National Exhibition
One of the top sponsors for Oil Painters of America’s national exhibition in Fredericksburg, TX, May 15-19, is Southwest Art magazine. Always quick to jump on the bandwagon and support fine artists and their work, they are once again offering two events you won’t want to miss.
First up, on May 15, will be the “Pampered” Paintout, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Kimberly Moore, SW Art’s regional sales manager, and her staff will be out in force to show the artists great spots to paint en plein air and to provide breakfast and lunch. If you attended last year’s debut Pampered Paintout in Evergreen, CO, you know it was one of the five days’ best painting parties. As Moore says, “It was a wonderful event and was so well received that we wanted to do it again! It gives the artists an opportunity to relax and paint while being pampered for a day with food, drink, music, and fun! SW Art loves working with such high caliber artists, and being able to host this exciting event is really a joy!”
This year, activities will take place in and around the beautifully restored Tatsch House at the Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park facility. Built in the mid-1880s by master cabinetmaker Peter Tatsch, using local stone, it is reminiscent of early Fredericksburg. It was recorded by the Historic American Buildings Survey of the U.S. Department of Interior and the home’s detailed plans were placed in the Library of Congress in 1936.
But that’s not all! On Sunday morning, SW Art’s Editor in Chief Kristin Hoerth will interview this year’s distinguished Artist Sherrie McGraw at the Admiral Nimitz Museum & Convention Center from 9:00 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. Hoerth says she is very much looking forward to the whole week of OPA events, but especially to speaking with McGraw: “I’m thrilled to be able to sit down and chat with Sherrie. My conversation with Daniel Greene last year was enlightening and entertaining, and I have no doubt that this year’s interview will be just as compelling. We at Southwest Art are so pleased to be part of these events. The OPA has a long and distinguished history of producing wonderful shows that bring artists together and present impressive paintings to collectors, and it is our pleasure to help support these endeavors.”
Register for OPA 2013 National Exhibition events here.
See you all there in the best little art town in Texas!
See you all there in the best little art town in Texas!
This Year Make a Personal Commitment to Invest in Your Career
Whether you are new to oil painting or a seasoned professional, we encourage all OPA members to attend the 2013 OPA Exhibition & Conference in Fredericksburg, TX, May 15 -1 9, 2013.
It’s so important to continue to invest in yourself and your career!
Artists for the most part are solely responsible for their own professional growth and development. The OPA Exhibition & Conference is THE place to acquire both creative and professional skills that will help you successfully manage your career.
The time is now!
Don’t procrastinate! This is the time and this is the place for you to learn from some of today’s best artists and business professionals, discuss topics that are important to you, and extend your social and professional network with like-minded peers. Join your fellow artists for an exciting and informative week that will inspire you to achieve your full potential as an artist.
Register Today!
The entire 5-day conference is just $265 for OPA members! An affordable investment that you will be glad you made. Register for the 2013 National Exhibition and Convention.
Highlights
Painting Demonstrations by:
| • Juror of Awards Sherrie McGraw OPAM | • John Michael Carter OPAM |
| • Kenn Backhaus OPAM | • John Cosby |
| • Scott Burdick | • Elizabeth Robbins OPA |
Presentations include:
Contemporary realist painter Scott Burdick takes on the challenging and ongoing debate between modernism and traditional art as he methodically contrasts the great painters from the late 19th century with examples of 20th century and contemporary Modernism. Join Scott Burdick for this fascinating and enlightening discussion.
This talk deals with a topic all creative’s face; a personal, unique vision and a path to help one achieve it. Factors such as Risk, Ego, Fear and External vs. Internal Motivation will be discussed as well as some positive options to help direct or redirect those who feel they have either strayed from their path or have never found it. Joe Paquet has been painting for 30 years and teaching for the last 17 years. He is a signature member of the Plein Air Painters of America, the Salmagundi Club of New York as well as the California Art Club.
The business of art can seem very cryptic. Well-respected artist John Cosby will address this anecdotally and with more practical methods that cover the idea of solving business problems so they fit in an artist’s lifestyle. Cosby has owned three galleries, painted professionally for 30 years and curated museum shows around the country. While being an engaging speaker, it is his experience and delivery that makes this a talk you do not want to miss!
Montana attorney Bill Frazier specializes in art related legal issues representing artists, galleries, collectors and museums. Author of over 350 articles for national art and legal publications, including a regular column in Art of the West Magazine, Mr. Frazier is uniquely positioned to provide attendees with a wealth of knowledge on a number of art related topics. This session will cover the basics of copyright law, trademarks, internet piracy, contract analysis and interpretation, and tips to help protect you from internet scams.
Art publisher and entrepreneur B. Eric Rhoads will teach you the tricks, techniques and tactics for brand building. He believes that being a great artist is not enough. Branding is not accidental and requires a specific process. Rhoads will walk you through the basics of brand building and show you the tools necessary to become better known than you ever thought possible. With a strong brand come strong sales, which will result in your living the life of your dreams.
Join SW Art Magazine Editor-in-Chief Kristin Hoerth, for an informative and in-depth interview with Master Signature artist and this year’s Distinguished Artist Sherrie McGraw. McGraw studied and taught at the Art Students League of New York and has become one of America’s foremost artists and teachers. Her work has received numerous awards and has shown in major art institutions and museums, including the Butler Institute of American Art, where she will have a solo show in 2013.
This presentation will address the tools needed to overcome an artist’s commonality in his or her painting efforts. For the most part, artists find themselves consumed with the single thought of just painting the scene, as they observe it. The powerful attraction of the visceral response that one experiences from standing in front of the subject is difficult to alter. Hence, the end result can become predictable and very similar to other painters’ efforts. An artist needs to develop skill sets to gain the ability to change and manipulate elements within his or her theme. This lecture and presentation will show, through description and visuals, how artists in the past and present have gone beyond literalism to find their own voice. Literalism can become a short and uneventful venture, whereas the exploration of conceptual thinking can put you on an endless journey that will last forever.
Join William E. Bush, owner of Fredericksburg Artists’ School and a Certified Public Accountant as he addresses “The Business Side of Art.” With over 30 years of experience, Bill brings a wealth of knowledge and practical information to the art community. His presentation will include discussion on various subjects facing the artist today, such as tax issues, insurance, agent relationship, gallery representation and other means of selling art.
American Art Collector Magazine’s Party under the Stars – Texas Style!
This is one party you won’t want to miss! For the 4th year running, the staff at American Art Collector Magazine is pulling out all the stops and hosting an evening of fun and camaraderie. Join us at the historic Pat’s Hall, where live music sets the stage for dancing the night away. OPA convention attendees will enjoy a down home Texas barbeque from Cranky Frank’s BBQ, and music from one of Austin’s hottest country bands, The Lonesome Heroes Band.
Southwest Art Magazine’s Pampered Paint Out!
What could be better than a day spent painting outdoors? How about one where you are truly pampered! Join Southwest Art Magazine’s Kimberly Moore for this unforgettable day that includes a continental breakfast, lunch, and a wine and cheese send off to end an amazing and perfect day!
Opening Reception & Awards Ceremony
Always a highlight and so much fun to watch! Come celebrate the tremendous artwork on display at this year’s exhibition and be there when this year’s award winners are announced.
For a complete schedule of events, speaker and seminar details and other registration information, please visit www.oilpaintersofamerica.com.
Fall 2012 OPA Online Showcase Winners
Prizes for the OPA Online Showcase are made available largely to a generous donation from Dorothy Driehaus Mellin and the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation. These awards typically boast $3,000 in cash for first place, $1,500 for second place and $500 for third place along with 10 honorable mentions.
Judges for the Online Showcase are selected from our Signature members, Master Signature members and other top oil painters in North America. Signature member Kathleen Dunphy was selected as judge for the Fall 2012 show, and has included some excellent comments for each of the paintings entered.
The Spring 2013 OPA Online Showcase will begin accepting entries on March 1, so be sure to enter to win excellent awards. Until then, enjoy the remarkable artwork of your fellow OPA Associate members from the Fall 2012 OPA Online Showcase.
First Place
Sunshine Breakfast by Stan Rogers
16 x 20 Oil
Judge’s Comments: This painting has it all: Great design, accurate drawing without being too tight, energetic brushstrokes, thick and thin paint, wonderful play of color accents amid the grays. Well done! – Kathleen Dunphy, OPA
Second Place
Cracker Jack by Craig Pursley
18 x 18 Oil
Judge’s Comments: To pull off lettering in perspective and make it look accurate and not too distracting..what a feat! The red leads you right to the center of interest, a beautifully painted portrait, but your eye keeps moving around the painting to the door handle and light in the background. An ambitious and well-executed undertaking. – Kathleen Dunphy, OPA
Third Place
Autumn Marsh: Proverbs 2:2 by Thomas Kegler
30 x 40 Oil
Judge’s Comments: We’ve all stood somewhere similar to this spot and been awed by the hushed beauty at the cusp of the day. Thomas captured not only the look but the spirit of that moment – you can feel the emotion emanate from the canvas. Just enough detail on the grasses in the foreground and a lovely sense of mystery as detail and warmth diminishes into the background. – Kathleen Dunphy, OPA
Honorable Mention
32 x 36 Oil
Judge’s Comments: Another emotional painting- I love the sense of intrigue–What’s he reading? What’s tormenting him? The painting on the wall in the background is a nice touch to add to the story. Incredible draftsmanship and just enough soft edges to keep it from feeling too brittle. Lovely color harmonies. – Kathleen Dunphy, OPA
Honorable Mention
20 x 30 Oil
Judge’s Comments: Beautiful play of temperatures – you feel both the chill of the snow and warmth of the weak spring sun. Great drawing and depiction of “junk” – turning the mundane into art. I looked at this painting a long time before I noticed the fox next to the building – a great pay-off to the viewer without taking over the theme of the painting. – Kathleen Dunphy, OPA
Honorable Mention
20 x 24 Oil
Judge’s Comments: I must admit that any depiction of Sorolla’s studio would get my attention, but the execution of this piece elevates the scene from just a snapshot to a work of art. Lovely indication of Sorolla’s paintings in the background. Great design- the triangulation of the bright white color keeps the eye moving through the painting. That half-figure on the left looking into the painting is a bold and effective addition. – Kathleen Dunphy, OPA
Honorable Mention
24 x 30 Oil
Judge’s Comments: I love the implied areas in this painting – the darks on the left and the signs behind the figures on the right. Lovely paint quality and brushwork. The warm accents from the incandescent lights play beautifully against the cooler natural light. Wonderful indication of wetness on the pavement. – Kathleen Dunphy, OPA
Honorable Mention
10 x 8 Oil
Judge’s Comments: Above and beyond the subject matter, this painting engages with the viewer with strong brushwork and luscious paint. I stopped thinking about a ginger jar and an apple and instead followed the tracks of the artist through her strong brushwork. Fresh and energetic! – Kathleen Dunphy, OPA
Honorable Mention
20 x 16 Oil
Judge’s Comments: I kept coming back to this painting again and again – the various textures and unique subject matter grabbed my attention. Beautiful rendering of the elephant and dynamic lighting. A head-turner. – Kathleen Dunphy, OPA
Honorable Mention
24 x 30 Oil
Judge’s Comments: You need sunglasses to look at this painting! Wonderful feeling of light. Beautiful sense of time and place and accurately-depicted figures. Just enough detail to tell us what’s going on without losing that sense of blinding morning light. – Kathleen Dunphy, OPA
Honorable Mention
30 x 20 Oil
Judge’s Comments: Great design and paint quality! I love the way the bear almost blends into the background, focusing our eye on the little girl. Sweet without being too sentimental. – Kathleen Dunphy, OPA
Honorable Mention
24 x 30 Oil
Judge’s Comments: Intriguing textures – those little glints of red/orange coming through make for a lively painting.Good solid drawing and I love the temperature shifts in the indication of the bricks on the wall. – Kathleen Dunphy, OPA
Honorable Mention
22 x 28 Oil
Judge’s Comments: In addition to depicting a very moving subject matter, this piece is beautifully painted. The warm underpainting showing through provides unity throughout the work, and the thicker paint on the figure’s face creates a convincing sense of depth. Great textures and subtle color shifts in the background shadow. – Kathleen Dunphy, OPA
Upcoming OPA Events
- March 1 – May 15, 2013 — Spring 2013 Online Showcase
- May 17 – June 17, 2013 — 22nd National Juried Exhibition
- June 20 – August 31, 2013 — Salon Show, Petoskey, MI
- September 6 – October 8, 2013 — 2013 Western Regional Exhibition
- October 20 – November 17, 2013 — 2013 Eastern Regional Exhibition
Stay tuned for more updates on these premier oil painting exhibitions for 2013 at www.oilpaintersofamerica.com