Whiskey Paintings are miniature watercolor paintings created with alcohol spirits by a lifetime member of the Whiskey Painters of America (WPA). This organization is the most unique and exclusive miniature painting society in the world. Membership is limited to 150 painters. To be considered for inclusion, an artist must be sponsored by an existing member, provide proof of participating in accredited art exhibits, submit samples of his/her watercolor paintings, and undergo a review by the membership committee. Several shows held each year to showcase the members’ stunning watercolor miniatures that capture the essence of whiskey painting.
Judy was accepted as a member of the Whiskey Painters of America in December, 2025.
“Unwritten rules require that an applicant paint a watercolor by candlelight after 10pm, no larger than 4”x5”, painted by dipping the brush in some form of alcohol. This can often result in a Manhattan swamp scene, a Martini landscape or a mixed up Fuzzy seascape.”
- The Whiskey Painters of America
Whiskey Painters of America History
The origin of this unique group began in the late 1950s in Akron, Ohio, with a small collection of professional artists from the Akron Society of Artists. The founder, Joe Ferriot, was an artist and the owner of a plastics company. While traveling for his firm, he often painted watercolor miniatures, designing a pocket-sized palette out of an aspirin box to hold his paint, and creating screw-together brushes that fit neatly inside this small box, which could easily slip into his shirt pocket.
After business hours, Joe would unwind at the nearest ‘watering hole,’ enjoying relaxation and friendly imbibing. To the delight of bartenders and patrons, he would pull out his small painting kit and create stunning whiskey paintings by dipping his brush into his glass of booze. He would then give away these miniature masterpieces, quickly becoming an instant celebrity and making many new friends. His whiskey paintings became highly sought-after commodities, and he rarely ever had to buy a drink!
Joe encouraged his fellow artists to join in the fun after their regular gatherings. They would paint together, put their creations into a hat, and each would retrieve one, going home with a fellow artist's work. To facilitate this, Joe had his factory design and produce mini palettes, which he distributed to his friends. Many artists still cherish those original palettes and use them today!
On a foggy night in 1962 at the Tangier Night Club in Akron, Ohio, 11 members convened, forming a charter with by-laws and governing rules, and elected Joe as president. Thus, 'The Whiskey Painters of America' was born, uniting artists who shared a passion for creating watercolor miniatures and whiskey paintings.
Notable watercolor artists among WPA members past and present include: Edgar Whitney (1891-1987), Wayne Sessions (1924-1984), Carlton Plummer (1929-2020), John Pike (1911-1979), Joe “Cheap Joe” Miller (1939-2023), Don Getz (1934-2018), J. Everett Draper (1915-2006), Arne Westerman (1927-2017), Skip Lawrence, Sterling Edwards, Tony Couch and more.