FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
95 Paintings. Artists from Around the World. One Extraordinary Watercolor Exhibition.
National Watercolor Society’s 106th International Open Exhibition Opens Thursday, October 1, during San Pedro’s popular First Thursday ArtWalk
SAN PEDRO, CA — September 2026 — The National Watercolor Society invites art lovers to celebrate the opening of its 106th International Open Exhibition on Thursday, October 1, 2026, in conjunction with San Pedro ArtWalk. On view through November 1 at the NWS Gallery, the exhibition features 95 exceptional watermedia paintings selected from a highly competitive international field, showcasing the remarkable range, creativity, and innovation of contemporary watercolor.
The opening offers visitors an opportunity to experience the NWS exhibition while enjoying San Pedro’s vibrant monthly arts celebration, with galleries, artists, and creative venues welcoming the community throughout the evening.
The exhibition was juried by distinguished watercolor artists Ratindra Das, Robbie Laird, and Gale Webb, with internationally recognized artist Stephen Quiller serving as Judge of Awards.
“This exhibition is a wonderful reflection of where watercolor is today,” said Judy Saltzman, President of the National Watercolor Society. “The artists are exploring the medium in exciting and unexpected ways, while demonstrating the beauty, power, and versatility that continue to make watercolor so compelling.”
Experience the Art—and the Artists
The public is invited to join the National Watercolor Society for a special Celebration Weekend October 10–11, featuring live demonstrations, artist presentations, awards, and opportunities to meet exhibiting artists.
Saturday’s program will feature live watercolor demonstrations by accomplished artists John Salminen, NWS-GM; Joe Cibere, NWS; and Diane Chencharick, NWS. Visitors will have the opportunity to watch these artists work, learn about their techniques, and gain insight into their creative processes.
The weekend continues Sunday with the NWS Awards Ceremony and Reception, where Judge of Awards Stephen Quiller will recognize the outstanding works in the exhibition. More than $50,000 in cash and merchandise awards will be presented, along with recognition of new NWS Signature Members and Masters.
“Celebration Weekend is about much more than looking at paintings,” Saltzman said. “It is about coming together as a community to celebrate creativity, learn from one another, and experience the extraordinary talent represented in this exhibition.”
The NWS 106th International Open Exhibition will be on view October 1–November 1 at the National Watercolor Society Gallery, 915 South Pacific Avenue, San Pedro, California.
Gallery Hours: Wednesday–Sunday, 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Private tours: Available by appointment.
For exhibition, private tour, and Celebration Weekend information,
visit National Watercolor Society.
About the National Watercolor Society
Founded in 1920, the National Watercolor Society is one of the oldest nonprofit, artist-led art societies in the United States. NWS is dedicated to encouraging innovation in watermedia through exhibitions, education, demonstrations, workshops, and opportunities for artists and the public to connect and share their passion for the medium.
