More Information About NOAPS
In the 1980's and early 1990's there was an apparent decline in the exhibition and sale of traditional-type paintings. It appeared as though watercolor, pastel and other mediums appearing behind glass were, in conjunction with various graphic mediums, completely dominating the gallery and museum scenes.
In 1990, a small group of artists and art lovers gathered to form a society for the purpose or promoting art that is produced in the traditional form of painting in hope of helping to maintain it's place in the national art scene. A rigid criteria was developed to insure adherence to the spirit of the tradition.
Oil is the most respected of the traditional mediums, and has historically been painted on either rigid panels or stretched canvas. A 20th century medium, acrylic, has been developed that handles in much the same way as oil, and is most often used that way. A great many "oil painters" have changed almost exclusively to the newer medium. Thus was born the National Oil & Acrylic Painters' Society.
Some resurgence in popularity of the mediums that we are promoting is evident, and we of NOAPS like to think that we may have had a small influence in this.
Our annual national exhibit is the visual fruit of our efforts. Each year, we select approximately 80 paintings from the many hundreds that are submitted for jury. Entries come from all 50 states as well as several foreign nations. The work selected for exhibit is always representative of this wide geographic participation.
The society is open to all. Our membership includes both professional and amateur artists, gallery owners and personnel, collectors, art lovers, friends of the arts, and many people who just believe there is merit in perpetuating this part of our culture.
NOAPS Home Page Membership Application 2000 Calendar Exhibit Information