The National Oil and Acrylic Painters’ Society returns to celebrate yet another year of unparalleled oil and acrylic work for their Best of America National Juried Exhibition. For the 33rd edition, the event is held at Principle Gallery in Alexandria, Virginia, and boasts an impressive 135 paintings in a variety of subject matter from NOAPS members.
Robin Williamson, Holding on to a dream, , oil, 36 x 24"
“We expect to have a very high caliber show this year, with some very prominent artists,” says NOAPS president Pat Tribastone. “I’m just astounded by the high level and quality, and really excited to these paintings in person. [In addition], visiting historic Alexandria is a real pleasure. We like to go all over the country with our shows so that more people can attend and have access.”
A demonstration by Trent Gudmundsen at the 2022 Best of America at Wilcox Gallery.
In addition to the exhibition of paintings, NOAPS features a two-day plein air competition, where artists can come to paint the hustle and bustle of the harbor city. After a demonstration on August 9 by Tony D’Amico, a NOAPS Signature Member, artists can explore the “beautiful scenic street scenes and harbor life of Alexandria,” says Tribastone. “There’s a lot of material to work from.”
Following the competition is the wet paint wale of the completed plein air works on Friday, August 11. Shortly thereafter, awards will be presented at Principle Gallery during a luncheon at 12 p.m., of both the exhibition paintings and the competition works. Signature Member judges Tony D’Amico, Barbara Nuss and Robin Williamson, who also have work in the show, will award a total of $35,000 to 13 art categories, with the grand prize going to best of show.
Barbara Nuss, Secret Garden, oil, 16 x 20"
Special activities include a gallery review featuring Tribastone and Hebe Brooks, master artist and board member. “This has been a popular event for the last few shows, where we walk around the gallery space and talk about individual pieces and have private artist critiques,” Tribastone explains.
Jennifer Heine, Ruminations, oil and acrylic, 24 x 30.” Best of Show for 2022 Best of America.
Tribastone also notes that the mission of such an esteemed event such as Best of America, is to inspire, above all else. “I hope we get a lot of members, artists and collectors to come and see the work in person, because it’s going to be truly an amazing show,” she says.
An opening reception will kick off the exhibition on Friday, August 11, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. All event information can be found at www.noaps.org. —
NOAP's Best of America National Juried Exhibition
When: August 11-September 10, 2023
Where: Principle Gallery, 208 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314
Information: www.noaps.org
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