Taking center stage as this year’s Distinguished Artist is renowned Master Signature artist Harley Brown.  Mr. Brown will speak with Allan Duerr, co-publisher of Art of the West Magazine about his long and successful career in the arts.  “It is a rare opportunity to be able to listen and learn from someone of his stature,” said OPA President Neil Patterson. “We are extremely honored to have him joining us in Scottsdale.”

On Saturday morning, Kristen Thies, author of “Wisdom and The Dreamer: Achieving Fulfillment in the Arts” will share her wisdom and insights gleaned from her successful career in Fine Art.  Ms. Thies is recognized for her long-time association with Richard Schmid, having served as his Executive Assistant for ten years.  She was instrumental in the publication of Schmid’s landmark book “Alla Prima: Everything I Know About Painting,” and was Executive Producer of his first four instructional videos and DVDs.  Ms. Thies is also co-owner of West Wind Fine Art Gallery which represents a select group of artists including Richard Schmid, Nancy Guzik, and her partner and husband, Timothy R. Thies.

Following Ms. Thies on Saturday will be OPA Signature member Kurt Anderson who will present, “Moving Beyond the Receipt Shoebox:  Practical Accounting and Administration for Artists.”  A successful artist in his own right, Kurt’s day job for eight years was working as a data analyst for an accounting firm.  Drawing on his quirky love of business plans and spread sheets, Kurt will provide the audience with step by step, no nonsense tips on how to get better organized for long term success.

On Saturday afternoon, Master Signature member Doug Higgins will be on hand to demonstrate his painting expertise.  From his home in Santa Fe, NM, Doug travels extensively throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and Europe painting landscapes and seascapes on location. He exhibits his work throughout the country and is represented in many prominent collections both here and abroad.

OPA is pleased to be partnering with the Scottsdale Artists’ School, offering OPA members the chance to participate in a week long Plein Air Wet Paint Sale beginning Wednesday, April 21 through Wednesday, April 28.  In addition, Scottsdale Artists’ School is opening studio space for Indoor Studio Painting, Monday, April 26 through Wednesday, April 28.  Participants will have the opportunity to display and sell their paintings at the Scottsdale Artists’ School over the opening weekend of the show.  All OPA members are eligible to participate.  More details to follow.

OPA members can look forward to wrapping up an exciting week of events by attendingAmerican Art Collector Magazine’s Closing Party on Saturday evening, May 1.  Headquartered right in the heart of downtown Scottsdale, American Art Collector Magazine – one of OPA’s long-time supporters- is planning a fun, memorable late night extravaganza.  OPA members can attend free of charge. Non-OPA members are welcome to join the celebration by purchasing a ticket in advance.

Sunday wraps up the week long activities on a high note with a morning of free painting demonstrations by some of OPA’s most seasoned Signature and Master Signature members.  Once again, Scottsdale Artists’ School will be hosting these demonstrations and the public is encouraged to come and watch these artists at work.