STEAMBOAT SPRINGS - The Oil Painters of America National Convention draws artists, collectors and art enthusiasts toward an unparalleled collection of representational oil paintings  by nationally and internationally acclaimed painters. 

The conference venue changes yearly. Steamboat Springs was chosen to host this year's event and exhibition. "Artists Rich Galusha and Shirley Stocks of Wildhorse Gallery and the staff of Steamboat Art Museum provided the impetus for the selection, says executive director Kathryn Beligratis. Visiting artists share their excitement on the inspiration they find in Yampa Valley."

Steamboat Magazine asks visiting artists to share why they love Oil Painters of America.


Rita Roberts- "It's a good support for opportunities to exhibit and it pushes you to get better. The members are extremely good at what they do. It's a stiff competition to get into this exhibit especially. The regional shows are a good place to start. There's a lot of learning opportunity."







Pam Slung- "You go to some incredible places and meet the most amazing people who share your passion to paint. It's really nice to have a shared passion with other people. You paint alone but you are inspired by others." 








Jim Magner-  "I think career wise it's important to be a member of significant organizations that are difficult to get in. Also, the social aspect, I love getting to talk to various painters from around the country. 








Dave Shepard- "It's a prestigious organization, it has really good reputation. I'm from Canada, I'm trying to show more in the U.S. This is my first exhibition I'm showing at, this is my first year."









Jeremy Goodding- "A big part of being involved is recognition and being able to compete in the competitions. When you get into them it's noteworthy as you are building your career. It took me several years before I got into the shows more consistently. If you get accepted it's a huge honor. If you win awards, it's that much more.  You have the opportunity to work next to the best painters in the country. I've met artists here I would have never met otherwise." 



Catherine Van Berg- "You get to paint with professionals. You get to hang out and learn their tricks. Painters are a bunch of fun anyhow, so it's great to get to paint with them and see what they produce."








Heather Burton- "There is a lot of opportunity for artists beginning to advanced in furthering your career by meeting other artists and improving your work."