SPECIAL EVENT | Swell Plates Dinner at Merenda

Join environmental anthropologist and Merenda co-owner Dr. Lauren Crossland-Marr for an evening inspired by the Francisco Eme: Future Rituals & La eco-resistencia  exhibition.

Drawing from Eme’s work and her own research, Dr. Crossland-Marr introduces environmental anthropology, a field that explores how humans understand and live within ecological systems.

Tuesday, February 10, 2026, 6–7PM

Merenda Wine Bar

3375 Mission Ave, Oceanside, CA 92058

$45 per person

 

An extension of  Visit Oceanside’s Swell Plate Series.

Artist Alliance Journaling for Creatives | Writing Your Mission Statement

In this virtual workshop series, artists are invited to turn their journal into a studio companion and idea incubator. Through interactive Zoom sessions we’ll explore simple, repeatable practices artists can use to generate content, clarify ideas, and deepen connection to their work.
JUNE TOPIC: WRITING YOUR MISSION STATEMENT
In this interactive journaling workshop, you’ll:
– Explore your core values and creative motivations
-Use guided journaling prompts to uncover your personal “Why”
-Shape words that inspire your art, fuel your career, and connect you with audiences
You will receive a Zoom link in the emailed RSVP confirmation receipt.
Ticket Prices:
Artist Alliance Member: Free

 

Plein Air Paint Out with OMA Artist Alliance: Buddy Todd Park

This is a small park with great views. There are lots of lovely mature trees, ocean vistas from the west side, playgrounds, and paths as well as plenty of shade. Parking is free and restrooms are available.

Open to All Levels!

Whether you’re a seasoned plein air painter or just starting your artistic journey, this event is for you! Beginners and experienced painters can find fresh inspiration in the urban and natural landscape.

How to Participate:

Register for the event on the San Diego Plein Air Painters Meetup Group site: https://www.meetup.com/painter-86/
Bring your painting supplies, easel, and canvases. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat for the California sun!
This is a non-instructional event.
Paint to your heart’s content and enjoy the dynamic surroundings.

Become an OMA Artist Alliance Member:

Join and learn more about Artist Alliance and the activities at Oceanside Museum of Art at: https://oma-online.org/membership/
Ticket Prices:
Artist Alliance Member: Free
 

Coffee And Conversation With OMA Artist Alliance | The Emotional Palette: Color as Communication

Relax over a steaming cup of coffee while engaging in lively conversations with local fellow artists and explore the captivating exhibitions at OMA for free. OMA’s Artist Alliance extends a warm invitation to sculptors, painters, photographers, and artists of all backgrounds to join in the experience.

The Emotional Palette: Color as Communication

Color is powerful—learn how artists use it to guide feeling, mood, and meaning.
Audience Takeaway: Name the emotional intention behind one color in their palette.
Presenter Prompt: Share how you choose colors and what emotional language they carry for you. Presenter to be determined*
*Please submit your name and website to cathy@artstudiosandiego.com to be selected as a presenter.
Ticket Prices:
Artist Alliance Member: Free

Art for All

Join OMA’s Free First Sundays for Art for All! Each month, OMA welcomes friends and neighbors on Free First Sundays to join in Art for All, our fun hands-on art-making experience led by artists and cultural partners from our community.
Whether you’re new to art or have your own creative flow, Art for All is the time to let your imagination soar. Visit our current exhibitions to spark your creativity! Explore different art-making materials through creative projects at each session while learning from local and regional artists. Check back each month to see what we’re up to next!
These informal drop-in workshops are open to all ages. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. All materials are provided free of charge, while supplies last. All levels welcome!
Ticket Prices:
Free

 

Taste of Art Workshop | Matisse and His Charming Cut-Out Collages

Kick off your weekend with a bite-sized happy hour version of our renowned Studio Arts workshops. Gather with friends in an artistic space designed to amplify your creative side.
Join arts educator Robin Douglas, as we dip our toes into the work of celebrated artists over drinks and nibbles, followed by a rapid demonstration of their styles. You’ll then be guided to interpret these artists and create your own singular, spectacular work of art. We’ll help you express your unique style and ensure you have a blast doing it.

Matisse and His Charming Cut-Out Collages

Simply beautiful and organic shapes will be cut from brilliant Color Aid paper inspired by Matisse. Arrange and rearrange shapes before adhering to a sturdy background, ready for framing.
All levels of experience are encouraged to participate. OMA provides food, drinks and supplies; all you have to do is get yourself out of work, grab your friends, and have fun!
Ticket Prices:
Adult: $65
Member: $50
Space is limited. Register today!

Studio Arts Workshop | The Colors of Venice

Join us for Studio Arts, when OMA transforms into an artist’s studio, offering skill-building workshops led by distinguished professor and arts educator Robin Douglas.
Inspired by world renowned artists, you will explore different media, techniques and subjects found in an artist’s studio. After a brief slide presentation for inspiration and context the session will continue with demonstrations.

The Colors of Venice

Monet was inspired to paint the reflective light off the water canals and architecture of Venice, Italy. Drawing inspiration from Monet’s limited but vibrant color palette and his thick brushstrokes, this studio will create energetic and fluid paintings that evoke visual poetry.
This full day workshop held from 10:00am–2:00pm is meant to get you in the art making groove and develop new approaches to seeing and creating artworks. Whether you have a lifetime practice or are new to expressing yourself, we exchange ideas and techniques in a supportive and challenging environment. Students of all levels are welcome to stretch their creative muscles and build community with us.
All supplies and light refreshments for each workshop are included in the cost. A break for lunch and relaxed discussion will occur midday. Please bring your own bagged lunch or feel free to visit one of the restaurants close by on our provided list.
Ticket Prices:
Adult: $100
Member: $70
Space is limited. Register today!
 

Neon Afterlife Reception at OMA West

Celebrate the newest exhibition at OMA West, Neon Afterlife. Enjoy champagne and charcuterie as you mingle with artists and art lovers at OMA’s Annex Gallery, located inside the Seabird Resort in downtown Oceanside, at 101 Mission Avenue, Oceanside, CA 92054.
Ticket Prices:
Free

SPECIAL EVENT | Patron Party

OMA’s Patron, President’s Circle, Founder’s Circle, Millennium Club, and Director’s Circle members are invited to join us for a casual meal, refreshing drinks, a celebration of your support, and an insider update from Executive Director Maria Mingalone.
Not yet a Patron, President’s Circle, Founder’s Circle, Millennium Club, and Director’s Circle level member? Join or upgrade today!
Ticket Prices:
Patron & Donor Level Member: Free

Art Business Lab | Building a Virtual Presence & Marketing Your Art

In today’s art world, a strong online presence is just as important as the work itself. This workshop helps artists identify their actual and ideal audience and understand who they are really speaking to—collectors, curators, or community. From there, participants will explore how to define a clear brand voice, using archetypes to guide how they present themselves authentically. We’ll break down the major social media channels, showing how to choose the right platforms for your goals, and share practical strategies for creating posts, reels, and videos that truly connect. Artists will leave with the tools to confidently market their work online and build relationships that last.
A limited number of scholarships are available for artists who wish to attend but cannot support the fees at this time, contact katie@oma-online.org to inquire.
Ticket Prices:
Adult: $65
Member: $60
Artist Alliance Member: $50

 

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