Southern California creativity shines at Oceanside Museum of Art’s Artist Alliance Biennial

Get ready to be inspired—Oceanside Museum of Art is once again putting Southern California’s artistic talent on full display with its highly anticipated Artist Alliance Biennial, opening Saturday, Nov. 22. This exhibition celebrates creativity at its finest, bringing together a wide range of work from painters, sculptors, ceramicists, fabric artists, and more. From vivid acrylics and watercolors to carved marble, eggshell art, mixed media, and innovative textiles, the Biennial is a feast for the eyes and a testament to the depth of talent in the region.

A Symphony of Artistic Voices
Katie Dolgov, director of Exhibitions and Collections at OMA, described seeing the works come together as a powerful experience.

“When you step into the gallery and see everything together—the colors, the forms, the vision, the stories—you feel it immediately,” Dolgov said. “Every artwork tells its own unique story, and yet all together, they sing. It’s Southern California art at its absolute best.”

Founded in 2012, the Artist Alliance is a membership affiliate of OMA that has grown into a community of more than 550 artists. The Biennial is considered the “crown jewel” of the Alliance, providing artists with recognition and professional growth opportunities. The exhibition also acts as a launchpad for careers: the first-place winner will receive a solo exhibition at OMA in 2027 or 2028, and the top three winners take home monetary prizes.

Rigorous Selection, Stunning Results
Jurors reviewed more than 1,300 submissions through a virtual platform, scoring each piece blindly.

“We narrowed it down through several rounds of scoring, eventually testing the top works against the gallery floor plan to ensure a cohesive, impactful exhibition,” Dolgov said. “It was challenging, but the result is breathtaking.”

Dolgov praised fellow jurors Patric Stillman and Chantel Paul for their collaboration and insight.

“OMA’s Artist Alliance submissions revealed an inspiring range of creative diversity in style, content, and artist experience. It’s exciting to witness the region’s artists pushing boundaries while celebrating their authentic vision. In times of uncertainty and upheaval, artistic expression reminds us of who we are and offers the clarity, courage, and connection we need most,” Stillman said.

“The 2025–26 Artist Alliance Biennial provides a special platform for both up-and-coming and established regional artists to share their work with a wide and engaged audience,” Paul said.

Artists Celebrate Their Moment
Participating artists expressed deep appreciation for being selected.

Ellen Dieter shared: “I am so thrilled to announce that this painting, Cloud 9, was juried into the Oceanside Museum of Art 2025-26 Artist Alliance Biennial. I am over-the-top, over-the-moon thrilled to be part of this exhibition. Oceanside Museum of Art is a long-time favorite of mine. I’ve been a member for many, many years of the Museum and the Artist Alliance. To be able to have a painting hanging on the walls of this gorgeous Museum is such an honor.”

Cathy Carey said, “There were 1,361 submissions, and out of all those excellent artworks, only 53 pieces were chosen. I am really delighted that I am included in this really fantastic exhibition.”

Fellow artist Susan Osborn said, “I am very thrilled to be included in this exhibition, the 2025-26 Artist Alliance Biennial. It’s very prestigious that I am selected to be shown with very accomplished artists. Oceanside Museum of Art has been very supportive of regional artists and has always put on excellent exhibitions.”

A Feast for the Senses
What makes this year’s Biennial especially exciting is the sheer range of media and styles. According to Dolgov, the exhibition spans painting, pottery, woodwork, fabric art, collage, and even eggshell sculpture.

“The range is incredible,” she said. “Each medium brings its own story, its own voice. And when they’re all in the same gallery, they create a kind of symphony—you can see the energy and creativity of Southern California artists in full bloom.”

Opening Night Celebration
The opening on Nov. 22 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. will include a meet-and-greet with artists and jurors, plus the announcement of prizes. Visitors can explore the full scope of creativity, speak with participating artists, and experience a carefully curated exhibition showcasing the region’s most compelling talent.

Dolgov emphasized that the Biennial reflects OMA’s broader mission of supporting artists at every stage.

“The Artist Alliance isn’t just about putting artwork on the wall—it’s about building community, fostering growth, and celebrating creativity,” she said. “We’re highlighting incredible talent, yes, but also showing how vital and vibrant our local arts community is.”

Whether you’re an art collector, a curious visitor, or simply looking for inspiration, the Artist Alliance Biennial promises an unforgettable experience. Learn more here.