royal institute of oil painters open call
Know before you apply
- Oil painters aged 18 or over
- Painters seeking a major group exhibition
- Painters inspired by winter rituals
- Oil paintings only
- Open worldwide to artists aged 18+
- Prizes and awards worth over £10,000
Artists are invited to submit work for exhibition alongside members of the Royal Institute of Oil Painters at the ROI Annual Exhibition 2026
The Royal Institute of Oil Painters was founded in 1882 and is the only major British art society that promotes and exhibits work of the highest standard exclusively in oil paint.
The ROI Annual Exhibition features work by many exciting emerging painters alongside the work of more established names.
Works on a Theme: Winter Rituals
This year’s special theme is ‘Winter Rituals’, for which The ROI Themed Painting Prize is on offer to the best interpretation. The theme invites oil painters to explore the traditions, repeated actions, gestures and rhythms that shape our experience of winter, from personal routines and acts of devotion to cultural traditions and collective gatherings. It reflects on the character, moments, identity and symbolism of contemporary life.
N.B. The theme is optional, one aspect of a larger exhibition, to which oil paintings of all subjects are welcome.