The Big: Art Center East’s Annual Open Exhibit begins with a free, in-person opening reception and awards ceremony on Friday, December 2, from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. The exhibit fills Art Center East’s Main and Orlaske Galleries with works by Pacific Northwest artists in various artistic mediums. “The Big” will be on display December 2, 2022, through January 28, 2023. ACE’s galleries are open to the public and admission is always free. 

“The Big” is an annual non-juried exhibit open to anyone 18 years of age or older. All artworks submitted for this year’s exhibit are eligible to win cash prizes awarded by exhibit judge Joshua Raferty, a Visiting Assistant Professor in Photography at Eastern Oregon University.

Awards include Best of Show, Best 3-Dimensional, Best 2-Dimensional, Outstanding Jewelry, Best Creative Sculptural Glass sponsored by Birddog Glass in La Grande, Best Creative Functional Glass sponsored by April Curtis, Best in Fiber sponsored by Knitkabob in Union, Best of Photography sponsored by Cook Memorial Library in La Grande for commercially-printed work, Fred Hill Best Photography Award for self-printed artworks, and Art Center East Honorable Mentions. 

The People’s Choice Award, sponsored by the Art Center East Board of Directors, is determined by visitors to the exhibit, each of whom may cast a vote throughout the exhibit’s duration. The winning artwork for the People’s Choice Award will be announced on Saturday, January 28, 2023. Artists are encouraged to begin preparing work for “The Big” 2023.

The public is invited to attend a free, in-person closing reception on Friday, January 27, 2023, from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. This reception is the final opportunity to view the exhibit and meet and talk with “The Big” featured artists. Complimentary drinks and hors d'oeuvres will be available.