For more than six decades, the South Oakland Art Association (SOAA) has brought artists together to learn, create and share their work with the community. Founded in 1960, the nonprofit organization continues to support both emerging and established artists through exhibitions, educational programs, community outreach, and artistic fellowship.

One of the greatest benefits of SOAA membership is the opportunity to connect with fellow artists. Members often gather outside of meetings for plein air painting excursions, museum visits, photography outings, and day trips throughout Michigan. These shared experiences foster friendships, artistic growth and a strong sense of community. This summer, members enjoyed a plein air painting meet-up, with another planned later in the season.

SOAA artists also enjoyed participating in the Royal Oak Outdoor Art Fair, one of Michigan's premier outdoor art events. Held in the beautiful setting of Memorial Park, the fair offers visitors an opportunity to experience fine art, live music and the welcoming atmosphere that makes Royal Oak a destination for art lovers. SOAA also collaborates with the Royal Oak Arts Council to support the fair and help ensure its success.

The association will continue its summer activities by participating in the Hazel Park Art Fair on August 22-23. In September, SOAA will host a booth at the Trenton Art Festival on September 19, providing another opportunity for the public to meet local artists and view their work.

These community events allow SOAA members to connect with the public, share their artwork and promote the value of the arts throughout southeast Michigan.

Looking ahead to the fall, SOAA's most anticipated event of the year will be its Annual Art Show at the Royal Oak Historical Society Museum. The exhibition will run from November 7 through November 21, with an opening reception on Sunday, November 8. The annual show showcases the diverse talents of SOAA members and celebrates the vibrant artistic community that has sustained the organization for 66 years. Community members are encouraged to attend and experience the wide range of artwork created by local artists.

SOAA's monthly meetings resume on September 8 at 7 p.m. at the Mahany/Meininger Community Center, 3500 Marais Avenue in Royal Oak. Meetings are open to members and guests, and feature presentations by professional artists working in a variety of media.

Upcoming meeting dates are September 8, October 6, November 10, and December 1 at 7 p.m. at the Leo Mahany/Harold Meininger Community Center.

At the November meeting, members will be challenged to create a nature-based art piece. In addition, every month members participate in a fun and spirited Artist of the Month contest. The contest gives members an opportunity to share current or past artwork in a variety of categories.

SOAA remains committed to keeping the arts accessible and welcoming to all. Membership is open to anyone aged 18 or older and costs just $30 per year. Whether you are an experienced artist, a beginner looking to learn or simply someone who appreciates the arts, SOAA offers opportunities to connect, create and be inspired.

For more information about membership, meetings and events, contact SOAA at SOAA200@gmail.com.