Fitton Center to host OAPN conference

Hamilton, Ohio – The Ohio Arts Professionals Network (OAPN) today announced the 2026 OAPN Conference will take place at The Fitton Center for Creative Arts in the heart of Hamilton, Ohio — a dynamic, art-forward city known as The City of Sculpture.

Save the dates for October 18 to 20, 2026, and get ready for a boutique, all-in-one conference experience like never before.

The 2026 event marks a milestone for OAPN, the first conference fully housed in one central venue - the Fitton Center - conveniently bringing together juried showcases, the exhibit hall, professional development sessions, networking, and more all under one roof. This exciting shift makes for an immersive experience in a venue designed to inspire.

“We are absolutely thrilled to bring our 2026 conference to Hamilton and begin this new partnership with the incredible team at the Fitton Center for Creative Arts,” said Jessica Rosenblatt, Executive Director of OAPN. “Working alongside Ian MacKenzie-Thurley from the Fitton Center and Shawn Stidham from Travel Butler County, we’re setting the stage for a conference experience that’s artistically rich, accessible and full of energy.”

Located along the Great Miami River, Hamilton, Ohio, is a progressive and picturesque city just north of Cincinnati, celebrated for its growing arts scene, historic architecture and vibrant downtown. As the City of Sculpture, visitors are greeted with dozens of large-scale public artworks, adding to the creative atmosphere and walkability of the area.

Attendees will enjoy free parking throughout the city and quick access to OAPN’s partner hotels, including The Well House Hotel Hamilton, Tapestry Collection by Hilton and the Courtyard by Marriott Hamilton—both just a short walk from the Fitton Center, making travel logistics easy and convenient.

“Hamilton is arts focused and proudly celebrates the arts within our city, from murals to sculpture to music,” said Hamilton Mayor Pat Moeller. “Hamilton is excited to host the 2026 Ohio Arts Professional Network Conference at the Fitton Center for Creative Arts, a real treasure for our entire region. We look forward to welcoming OAPN as we share inspiring art and an exciting vision for the future in a beautiful city.”

“We’re thrilled to welcome the Ohio Arts Professional Network Conference to Hamilton in 2026. A vibrant arts scene and strong community partnerships make Hamilton an outstanding choice,” said Tracy Kocher, President & CEO of Travel Butler County. “We look forward to welcoming OAPN attendees for immersive art and education experiences in a city that is fueled by creativity and collaboration.”

Previous OAPN conference locations have included Toledo, Cleveland, Dayton, Sandusky, Newark, and more—but 2026 promises to be an unforgettable new chapter.

More details coming soon! Keep an eye out for announcements about “I Want to Showcase” applications for juried showcases, professional development proposal submissions, and registration. 

Want to stay in the loop? Visit www.oapn.org to join our email list for conference alerts, and become a member today to take full advantage of our ongoing virtual professional development sessions and in-person mini networking events happening across the state as we gear up for OAPN 2026.

Get ready to connect, grow, and be inspired at the 2026 OAPN Conference in Butler County. We can't wait to see you there!

The Fitton Center for Creative Arts is located at 101 S. Monument Avenue on the Riverfront in downtown Hamilton, Ohio.

Building Community Excellence through the Arts and Culture