Big congratulations are in order: the National Watercolor Society has just opened its 106th International Open Exhibition, and the results are worth celebrating. Out of a seriously competitive international field, 95 paintings made the cut — and together, they’re a great snapshot of where watermedia is right now, in all its creativity and range.
One figure stands out as a point of pride for the Society: 42% of the accepted artists are NWS Associate Members. That’s not a small thing — it’s proof that what gets you into this show is the work itself, not membership tier or pedigree.
Ratindra Das, Robbie Laird, and Gale Webb served as Jurors of Selection, while Stephen Quiller took on the role of Judge of Awards.
If you’re anywhere near San Pedro, California, this fall, clear some space on your calendar. The exhibition runs through November 1, 2026 at the NWS Gallery. I hope you enjoyed this sneak peek at some of the top award winners!
Great paintings don’t happen by accident — and at Watercolor Live, you can learn the thinking behind one of this year’s NWS award-winning artists: Michelle Nixon.
