2024 New Membership Information
Membership Chairperson: Bess Alexander
  • Schedule for Applications for Membership:
    • Submission of applications: August 15, 2024 - September 28, 2024
    • Application evaluation: September 28 - October 7, 2024
    • Notification of results: October 8 - 12, 2024  
  • Submission Process:
    • The submission and jury process will be completed virtually.
    • The application and .JPG files (<3 MB each please) of 3 unmatted paintings should be submitted electronically using email in the application
    • All applicants will be notified within one week of their status.
    • Application below (includes submission information)
New Membership
The Central Ohio Watercolor Society accepts nominations for new members on an annual basis.  Individuals are eligible for application for membership if they are interested in furthering the use of transparent watercolor as a form of artistic expression with demonstrated skills of professional quality and live in Ohio.

Any member in good standing may recommend to the chairperson of the membership committee the name of a potential member.

The selection of new members occur during the "Schedule for Applications for Membership" listed above.  New members will not be selected at any other time.  Each potential new member shall submit three matted (not framed) pieces, following the requirements of submission and will include the application provided below. The paintings must conform to the transparent watercolor criterion of the organization:
  • Per the COWS By-laws, the definition of transparent watercolor is as follows:
    • Transparent watercolor only may be used as the painting medium. “Transparent watercolor” is defined as paint so marked and advertised as “watercolor” by the manufacturer.  Thus all other water-based media and any white paint shall not be used.  The paint may be applied directly as it comes from the tube or pan, or diluted with water.  No other material shall be permanently added to the painting surface or mixed with the watercolor medium, except graphite pencil may be used for the initial structural drawing.
    • The surface on which the watercolor is applied shall be paper, sized only by the manufacturer. No additional substance shall be applied to the support material nor any other support surface used. 
    • Paintings copied from photographs, other than your own, videos, or during a workshop or classroom situation are not eligible. They MUST be original artwork.

Any questions, please contact the Membership Committee Chairperson
Returning Members
Members are required to pay membership dues in full by January 1 or each year and demonstrate enthusiasm for the purposes of the society by participation in its meetings and events. 

Members may hold any elective office and committee assignment, submit information about potential members, bring guests to any program meeting of the society, participate in exhibitions and other events and activities of the society.
Watercolor is unique in its unparalleled ability to portray light. Your style may be tight or loose, fast or slow, thick or thin, and bright or subtle. We celebrate its uniqueness!