About the WOCP
The World Organization of China Painters is not just a museum—it’s a living, breathing organization that has brought together artists from around the world. Governed by a Board of Directors, the organization works to preserve, promote, and extend the art of porcelain painting. Volunteers and staff help run the museum, ensuring that each visitor learns not only about the history of the art form but also its contemporary relevance.
The Founding Painter
Pauline was a native Oklahoman. The elegant porcelain artistry for which she became famous began as a hobby in the forties. Extraordinarily skilled, she recognized that a three century old art form was being lost to the world and, characteristically, began a second life's work to recapture and rejuvenate the fine art. She sought out and taught individuals with talent, then traveled throughout the area lending her abilities to the organization of porcelain painting clubs so that her pupils could extend her teaching.
The WOCP Museum’s collection is recognized as one of the finest in the United States. This collection represents the achievements of porcelain artists who have made lasting contributions to the art form.
The Timeline of the WOCP and the Porcelain Art Museum
1940’s
A Passion for Porcelain Painting
Pauline Salyer begins exploring porcelain painting as a personal hobby in the 1940s. Her extraordinary skill begins to emerge as she works to perfect this art form.
1962
Oklahoma Federation of China Painting is Founded
Pauline started an organization in Oklahoma to foster the appreciation of porcelain painting and share her passion with others.
1967
The China Painter Magazine Launches
Pauline publishes the first issue of The China Painter, a bimonthly magazine focused on porcelain painting. It would later evolve into a quarterly publication. She served as Publisher and Editor.
Pauline Authors Her First Book
She writes her first book, Great Artists of China Decoration, which helps expand knowledge on the art form.
1977
World Organization of China Painters (WOCP) is Founded
Pauline establishes the World Organization of China Painters, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization aimed at preserving and promoting the art of porcelain painting. Her love of the art form led to establishing porcelain painting clubs all over the world.
First Worldwide Convention Held in Oklahoma City
The first-ever WOCP Convention is held in Oklahoma City, bringing together hundreds of porcelain artists from around the world.
1983
Museum Property is Purchased
Pauline purchases WOCP’s first corporate headquarters property in Oklahoma City (2641 N.W. 10th) to house a world-class museum and library dedicated to porcelain art.
Authors Her Second Book
Pauline publishes Oriental China Painting, a book based on her visits to China’s porcelain factories—some of the first visits to China after the revolution
1989
Grand Opening of the WOCP Museum
The World Organization of China Painters Museum officially opens during the 12th biennial Oklahoma World Show, showcasing and preserving a fine porcelain art collection. Over 7,500 people from around the world attended that convention.
Educational Art Institute Began
An event held biennially at the University of Southern Colorado to provide continuing education for teachers of porcelain painting.
1991
Pauline’s Passing
Pauline A. Salyer passes away, leaving behind a legacy in the world of porcelain painting. Her vision and contributions continue to influence artists and organizations globally
2016
Museum Moves to New Location
Referred to as the Porcelain Art Museum, a new property was purchased, and the collection was relocated to 2700 N. Portland Ave. in Oklahoma City.
2027
50th Anniversary of the WOCP
Pauline’s dream continues to thrive through the Porcelain Art Museum, the magazine, special events and educational programming.