Featuring noteworthy artworks by some of the best oil painters across the country, is the annual National Juried Salon of Traditional Oils—brought to the public by Oil Painters of America. This year's event is hosted by James R. Ross Fine Art gallery in Indianapolis, Indiana, and will showcase 150 impressive oil paintings.
Albert Handell, OPAM, Deep Woods, oil on Belgium linen, 28 x 28"
“The OPA is committed to the advancement of traditional representational painting, but collectors can expect to see paintings in a wide range of styles, from extremely loose and impressionistic, to highly finished trompe l’oeil,” explains executive director Kurt Anderson. “[In addition], over $15,000 in cash and merchandise will be awarded. Gold, silver and bronze medals are awarded in both the OPA Master artist category and the Signature and Associate artist category. Among the many additional Awards of Excellence are prizes for special genres of painting, such as landscape, cityscape, seascape, still life, portrait, figurative and animals.”
Anderson also notes that Master artist Robert Johnson, this year’s featured artist, will be judging the event and offering demonstrations during the opening night. “He is known for his strong, skillful drawing and classical foundation of good painting,” says Anderson, “But there will be about 20 other OPA Masters represented in the show, including such artists as Indiana’s own C.W. Mundy.”
C.W. Mundy, OPAM, Rose Floral in Pink Vase, oil on linen, 20 x 16"
Mundy is celebrated for his still life work, but “I also paint landscapes and figures, and have been acknowledged for these as well,” he shares. “[For the upcoming show], I’m most excited about all the social interaction between artists and attendees. I love to talk with others about art and the philosophies behind the art.”
With his still life show piece Rose Floral in Pink Vase, we can see why Mundy has achieved the label of Master artist. “Combining realism and impressionism was the reason for this particular series of still life,” Mundy says. “I painted the vase realistically and took the liberty to have freedom in the flower petals and the palette-knifed leaves.”
Michael Situ, OPAM, Sunset Reflection, oil on canvas, 12 x 16"
Yet another Master artist in the show, Michael Situ, contributes Sunset Reflection—illustrating his unique style in depictions of coastal scenes. “Sunsets are one of my favorite subjects to paint,” he says, “and recently, I have really enjoyed lots of variations on that theme. “I think it connects me to my childhood and a sense of gratitude for another beautiful day. I love seeing the colors reflected in the water, when the sunset’s light passes through. The golden hues after a sunset are some of the most beautiful moments to capture." Sunset Reflection was inspired by a vista in Laguna Beach, California. “I think it is the best place to see the sunset,” he says.
Collectors and artists mingle at the 2023 OPA Salon hosted by Illume Gallery West in Philipsburg, MT. Photo courtesy of Tim Newton.
The opening reception and award ceremony for the OPA Salon will be held on Thursday, July 25 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Awards will be announced at 7 p.m. Admission is free and all paintings will be for sale. The exhibition will remain on view at James R. Ross Fine Art through August 17. —
2024 National Juried Salon of Traditional Oils
July 25-August 17, 2024
James R. Ross Fine Art
5627 N. Illinois Street, Indianapolis, IN 46208, (317) 255-4561
www.oilpaintersofamerica.com
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