Each painting accepted into a juried WSO exhibition earns Merit Points. When a member has accumulated ten points, they receive the Bronze Award and Signature Status. Merit Awards receive recognition at conventions. After achieving this level, the member will continue to accumulate points, working toward higher awards.
| Merit Award Level | Member’s Cumulative Merit Points |
|---|---|
| Celestial Award | 100+ points |
| Comet Award | 75-99 points |
| Diamond Award | 50-74 points |
| Platinum Award | 25-49 points |
| Gold Award | 20-24 points |
| Silver Award | 15-19 points |
| Bronze Award and Signature Status | 10-14 points |
Earning Merit Points
Points are earned by having a painting accepted into a WSO exhibition. Additional points are earned by winning awards at a WSO exhibition.
Start now and keep a list of the WSO exhibitions you have been accepted into and the awards received. Download a copy of the Merit Award Worksheet and keep track of your points. When you have earned 10 points, send the form to the Merit Award Chairperson at awards@watercolorsocietyoforegon.com. After you’ve tracked your first 10 points, WSO will keep track of all future points.
Award points for exhibitions from Spring 2009 to present
| Exhibition Award | Merit Points Earned |
|---|---|
| Best of Show (1st Place) | 5 points |
| 2nd Place, 3rd Place, or 4th Place Award | 4 points |
| 5th Place, 6th Place, and Awards of Distinction | 3 points |
| Accepted into the exhibition but did not earn an Exhibition Award | 1 point |
Award points for exhibitions Fall 2008 and previous
| Exhibition Award | Merit Points Earned |
|---|---|
| Sweepstakes | 5 points |
| 1st Place, 2nd Place, or 3rd Place Award | 3 points |
| Accepted into the exhibition but did not earn an Exhibition Award | 1 point |
Point totals below were updated December 2024.