One of the larger group exhibits of sculpture in Orcas Center’s history will open Friday evening, July 3. A reception for the 14 participating artists will be held in the Madrona Room beginning at 5:30 p.m.

The show, “Tons of Art,” is large in another sense as well: the size of the works displayed. Although sizesvary, big art pieces will dominate, with several towering well above viewers’ heads. Many of the works will be displayed outdoors in a “sculpture walk” beginning at the existing giant metal Orca whale and leading to the center entryway.

In both subject matter and styles, the show will range from the traditional to the contemporary and from the whimsical to classic, says exhibit coordinator Joe Floren. In some cases, he says it will likely challenge viewers’ preconceptions of just what sculpture is.

Media use runs the gamut from wood, stone, marble, and steel, to less familiar materials, including porcelain and gunpowder.

Participating artists include both long-time local favorites and newer arrivals to the island’s sculptor ranks: Walter Henderson, Aleph Geddis, Rocky McGinnis, Todd Spalti, Zackarya Leck, Hannah Alex-Glasser, Pete Welty, Paul Lindersmith, “River” Jim Rorabaugh, Dwight Duke, David Haslett, David Densmore, Fred Enge, and Ryan Lawless.

The show will continue throughout July.