Portrait Artists of Arizona was founded in 2008, by Pamela Jonas.  Curious as to whether there were other portrait artists in the Valley struggling to find support and encouragement of this particular art form, she started sending out emails and posting some signs at local art supply stores.  Nearly 20 people showed up at the first informational/planning meeting September 2008 and by January 2009 we had 25 paid members. In the first few months, we met for discussion and critique, but soon we were holding painting sessions with live portrait models, called Portrait Studios, alternating every other month with general meetings. Out of our membership, several talented professional artists volunteered their time to do demos and informational presentations, e.g. Chris Saper, Linda Brandon, Dodie Ballantine, and Linda Fox. By the end of 2009 we had 40 members.

In 2010, we implemented new Officers, a Membership Chair and formed the Members Exhibition Committe to begin the planning of our first exhibition. We also applied for and received our 501 (C ) 3 status as a tax-exempt non-profit organization. Our first Guest Demonstration was given by nationally acclaimed portrait artist and highly sought after instructor David Leffel. Nearly 40 local portrait artists (members and non-members) attended this special event.  We added a Workshop Series given by members Linda Brandon and Jim Garrison. Member Demos were given by Jean Hildebrant, Jim Garrison, Rosalie Vacarro and Saltness Parks.  The Portrait Awards Program began in July where members would bring in their portraits to be voted on for ribbons and cash prize. By the end of 2010 we had 53 members.

In 2011, we held our First Annual Members Exhibition at ASU Gammage Auditorium in March, with 24 members represented and 31 portraits exhibited. Additional opportunities for participation were added with Chair positions for Models and the Portrait Studios, and Programs. Our members span all levels of artists, from fledgling beginners, to nationally-acclaimed, award-winning professional portrait and figurative artists and instructors; they live as far North as Prescott to as far South as Tucson and throughout the Phoenix metro area.  We continue to plan and provide opportunities for learning, to grow and develop friendships with other portrait artists, and to share this art form with the community.

In 2011, PAOA was awarded a grant from the Arizona Commission on the Arts to assist us in our operations.