The Marion Art Center opened its doors on Friday night to artists and guests who gathered to kick off the Winter Members Show at a reception.

Retired Executive Director Wendy Bidstrup said the variety and quality of the works of art are impressive for this year’s show.

“The artists submitted photographs, pastels, watercolors, oils, acrylics and mixed media,” said Bidstrup. “Here at the Art Center the works are taking up two floors.”

Bidstrup is filling in for Executive Director Deborah Bokelkamp for the time being while she is on leave.

The show features 76 pieces from 25 area artists. From portraits to ports of call, the subject matter is varied.

Fairhaven resident Jay Ryan, who is also on the board of directors, has shown his watercolor paintings at the Center before.

For this show, Ryan submitted a watercolor titled "Joe" featuring a bearded model with an eye catching yellow background.

"My focus is generally on large, figurative works of art," Ryan explained.

Formerly the principal at Rochester Memorial School, Ryan holds a certification as an art teacher and in graphic design from the Massachusetts College of Art and Design.

In addition to painting, Ryan is an active member of the center, having participated in several plays and courses on painting in watercolor as an instructor.

The exhibit runs through Feb. 27. The Marion Art Center is located at 80 Pleasant St. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Friday from 1 to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.