OPA Event Schedule and Details
This schedule covers all events surrounding the 2026 OPA National Juried Salon Opening Weekend, including painting demonstrations, an artist lunch, an awards reception, and a juror walkthrough of the exhibition. Here is what to expect and how to take part.
OPENING WEEKEND
July 31 – August 1, 2026
The 2026 OPA National Salon opens with a full weekend of events in Hamilton. All events are complimentary and open to the public. Registration is appreciated so we can plan accordingly.
FRIDAY, JULY 31
Opening Reception, 5:00 - 7:00 PM
Cassens Fine Art, 215 W Main Street, Hamilton, MT
The exhibition opens to the public with a reception at Cassens Fine Art. Join exhibiting artists and local and visiting collectors for an evening in the gallery. Awards totaling approximately $20,000 in cash and merchandise are presented at 5:30 PM by Juror of Awards James Crandall OPAM.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 1
Behind the Easel: James Crandall OPAM, 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Willow + Sage Event Space, 167 South 2nd Street, Hamilton, MT
Watch James Crandall OPAM develop a painting from start to finish while discussing the principles behind his process: composition, value, color harmony, and the use of light. Crandall brings decades of experience as both a concept illustrator and fine artist to the easel. Questions are welcome throughout.
From Palette to Plate, 12:15 – 2:15 PM
Grano, 203 W Main Street, Hamilton, MT
A relaxed lunch at Grano in downtown Hamilton. A good opportunity to sit with fellow artists and collectors before the afternoon session. Guests order from the menu and are responsible for their own bill.
Wine and Wisdom, 5:15 – 6:30 PM
Cassens Fine Art, 215 W Main Street, Hamilton, MT
The weekend closes at the gallery. James Crandall OPAM walks through the awarded works, sharing what distinguished each painting and what he looked for during the jurying process. A glass of wine and a closer look at the show.
getting here
The nearest commercial airport is Missoula Montana Airport (MSO), approximately one hour north of Hamilton. Car rental, private shuttle, and rideshare options are available from Missoula. Public transit between the two cities is limited, so booking transportation in advance is recommended.
Bitterroot Valley Shuttle offers shared ride service between MSO and Hamilton. Reservations must be made more than 48 hours in advance. Call or text 406-550-0001 or visit bitterrootvalleyshuttles.com
where to stay
City Center Motel
415 West Main Street, Hamilton, MT 59802
(406) 543-3193
Walking distance to Cassens Fine Art and the weekend's downtown venues.
Bitterroot River Inn
139 Bitterroot Plaza Drive, Hamilton, MT 59840
(406) 375-2525
Located approximately two miles from downtown Hamilton.
REGISTRATION
All Opening Weekend events are complimentary. Please complete a registration form for each person attending so we can plan accordingly. Questions? Contact Liz Pusch at OPA: lpusch@oilpaintersofamerica.com
Cassens Fine Art is honored to host the 2026 OPA National Juried Salon and looks forward to welcoming artists, collectors, and guests to Hamilton this summer.
For questions about the exhibition or purchasing artwork, please contact the gallery at 406-363-4112. For questions about shipping, awards, various requirements, or other OPA events, please contact Liz Pusch at OPA: lpusch@oilpaintersofamerica.com
We look forward to seeing you at the end of July!