National Endowment for the Humanites show at Orcas Center — Opens Feb. 5

On Friday, Feb.5,  Orcas Center opens 2010 with a big new exhibit from the National Endowment for the Humanities, PICTURING AMERICA. tracing the history of America through artistic masterpieces. Our nation is united by our devotion to shared ideals. Great American art brings our story to life and helps insure that these ideals are studied, passed on and remembered. For instance, the composition of James Karales memorable photograph of the 1965 Selma-to-Montgomery civil rights march echoes Emanuel Leutze’s portrayal of Washington Crossing the Delaware, reminding us that each generation makes their own sacrifices for freedom.

From early southwestern pottery through 20th century architecture, this series of 40 large panels views America through examples of painting, sculpture, photography, architecture and the decorative arts of ceramics, glass, quilting and silver.

Fine reproductions of familiar favorites such as Audubon, Edward Hopper, Mary Cassatt, Dorothea Lange, Frank Lloyd Wright and the Chrysler Building will fill the lobby and Madrona Room. Shown throughout the U.S. and featured on TV, this exhibit can now be enjoyed by everyone, children and adults, here on Orcas Island through February.

The exhibit is sponsored by the Palettes and an all-island reception will be held Friday, Feb.5 from 5.30 to 7 pm featuring local experts to talk about and answer questions about the work.