It has been a century since a small group of local artists broke off from the modernist art movement and formed a small society aimed at preserving, teaching, and exhibiting traditional representational art. To put that milestone in perspective: Oregon Society of Artists (OSA) was formed shortly after the end of World War I, during the height of Prohibition, and only six years after the national recognition of a woman’s right to vote. Much has changed in the world since 1926, and our organization has evolved alongside it. 
 
When it first started, OSA did not have a dedicated building or staff. Our founders taught art and exhibited their work, wherever space was available— in private studios, in stores, and other public spaces. Through the extraordinary generosity of volunteers and donors, we eventually purchased our property at SW Park Place. Local architects and contractors designed and built our facility. It is a testament to the stewardship of that generation that by the mid-1950s, OSA had successfully paid off its mortgage in full. 

As our membership grew, so did our impact. In 2007, we formalized our commitment to the public good by becoming a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. In 2018, we reached another milestone by hiring our first full-time staff member—a team that has since grown to three dedicated professionals who manage our increasingly complex operations. 

Today, our offerings have expanded far beyond our original scope. From our vital free art programs for veterans to workshops led by preeminent national artists, we have become a multifaceted hub for creativity. While we remain a home for classical representational art, we now celebrate a wide variety of mediums, styles, and techniques, and host a range of community programs. 
 
Over the years, thousands of volunteers have built this institution—working in the gallery, tending to the garden, fixing the building, promoting the organization, serving on committees and the board of directors. Their collective effort has transformed us into one of the leading art centers on the West Coast. 

To more accurately reflect the vibrant, diverse, and professional institution we have become, the board of directors is excited to announce that in our hundredth year, we are transitioning our name to Oregon Art Center. 

While this name change reflects our growth, our core values remain steadfast. As Oregon Art Center (OAC), we will continue our nonprofit mission, providing the excellence in education and exhibitions you have come to expect. 
 
This transition will be seamless for our community. All current members of OSA will automatically become members of OAC, with all membership rights, benefits, and renewal dates remaining unchanged. Whether you are a beginner student, a lifelong art lover, or an accomplished professional, our doors remain open to you. Most importantly, our location, our mission, and our 501(c)(3) status remain exactly the same. 

As we honor the artists who built this institution, we step forward together as Oregon Art Center. This milestone is possible because of your passion, generosity, and engagement, and we are proud to celebrate it with you.  

Thank you for being part of our story. We are honored to have you with us as we begin this next chapter as Oregon Art Center. 

Karen Russell
OAC Board President