Orcas Center opens 2010 with a new exhibit from the National Endowment for the Humanities, “Picturing America,” on Friday, Feb. 5.

The show traces the history of America through artistic masterpieces. Great American art brings our stories to life and helps ensure that these ideals are studied, passed on and remembered. 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. 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 p.m., featuring local experts to talk about and answer questions about the work.