Who We Are

The Pittsburgh Watercolor Society, founded in 1945 to develop, encourage and maintain interest in watercolor painting is celebrating its 75^th anniversary in 2020!

The original membership of 20 was one of the first groups to be affiliated with the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts. The membership of the Pittsburgh Watercolor Society has grown to over 250 artists who enjoy this opportunity to explore and share their broad range of styles and techniques.

As we begin this 75^th anniversary year, we invite you to join us for any or all of the amazing exhibits and events that we will be presenting. A current list of exhibits, new member screenings, classes and other events can be seen on our Calendar by clicking here.

The Pittsburgh Watercolor Society presents two major exhibits per year, and others as opportunities become available. Waterworks is a members-only show with awards selected by a regional juror. Members choose their best piece to exhibit.

Aqueous Open is an international juried exhibition with entries open to artists from around the world. The show is selected by a nationally, and in some cases, internationally, known juror. The selected juror may also travel to Pittsburgh to teach a workshop. In some cases, the exhibit may have two jurors, such as a Juror of Selection and a Juror of Awards.

In addition to the Juror's workshop, PWS presents several one-day workshops and other member-related events throughout the year. General meetings are held twice a year to update members on group exhibits, workshops, activities and more.

Membership in the Pittsburgh Watercolor Society is a privilege, and an exciting way to meet artists who share a common interest in watermedia. New members are juried in twice a year, spring and fall, by a panel of Board members. Members have many opportunities to volunteer some time or talent to the group. It is a great way to get involved, meet other members and is always appreciated, big or small. For more information, see the Join Us page.