Three people smiling and looking through a gold picture frame.
A row of used artist paintbrushes with paint on the handles and bristles, next to a partially visible colorful painted palette.
Two men working on a creative project at a table in a workshop. One is holding a paper or fabric mask, while the other is adding details to it. In the background, a person prepares food and another looks on.

About OAC  

Founded in 1926 as the Oregon Society of Artists, the organization has supported and promoted the visual arts in our region for nearly a century. In 2026, as we celebrate 100 years of service, we proudly begin a new chapter as the Oregon Art Center (OAC)—a name that reflects our continued growth, expanded programs, and commitment to serving a broad and diverse artistic community. 

Our mission remains the same: to promote the visual arts in the diverse communities of our region through educational and exhibition opportunities for artists at all levels of accomplishment. 

OAC is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members, students, staff, volunteers, and visitors. This organization does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, or sexual orientation in any of its activities or operations. At OAC, we support diversity and creativity. Our staff and board are committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, and we strive to make OAC a place where all feel welcome.  

OAC is committed to ensuring that all individuals, including those with disabilities, can fully access and enjoy our programs. We strive to provide an inclusive and accessible experience by adhering to best practices and accessibility guidelines. Our physical facilities are ADA compliant, offering accessible entrances, restrooms, and parking spaces. 

OAC Offers 

  • Classes for every level of ability and every age, covering a wide range of media including watercolor, acrylics, oils, “Procreate” for iPad, sketching, life drawing, sculpture, printmaking, color pencils, calligraphy, open studios and more. Classes are offered in-person or on Zoom. 

  • A robust Veterans' Art Program, open to veterans from all branches of the military. Click HERE to learn more. 

  • Single day workshops and multi-day weekend workshops presented two to four times per month. Workshop instructors are nationally known, and many come from across the country to offer new perspectives and opportunities to our local artists. 

  • Art demonstrations 

  • Drink & Draw events on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays each month 

  • We offer opportunities for artists of all levels to exhibit and sell their work in monthly juried or non-juried exhibitions held in the gallery 

  • Access to an extensive library of art-related books, from history to “how-to” 

  • Community and member special events 

A smiling couple embracing, the man wearing glasses and an apron, and the woman wearing a red beret and a colorful scarf, holding cups in a cozy setting.

Our values

At Oregon Art Center, we believe in the power of art to connect, inspire, and strengthen communities. We are committed to inclusivity, accessibility, and lifelong learning, and we strive to create a welcoming environment where artists of all backgrounds and skill levels feel supported, respected, and empowered to grow.