LA GRANDE — Art Center East, 1006 Penn Ave., opens two shows on Friday, Sept. 6, with a reception from 6-8 p.m.

“Start the Story at the End,” an autobiographical exhibit by photographer and artist Josh Raftery, will be displayed in ACE’s Orlaske Gallery.

The Main Gallery will feature “Journeys and Convergence,” a collaborative exhibit featuring the works of Jan Clark, Linda M. Peterson and Denise Elizabeth Stone. The artists will discuss their work, inspirations and creative processes in an artist talk beginning at 7 p.m. Sept. 6.

Raftery

According to an ACE press release, Raftery, a native of Phoenix, Arizona, “delves into the complex relationships between loss, memory, religion and science. Influenced by his personal experiences with loss and bereavement, he creates narratives of dystopia and uncertainty through mixed media, found objects, photography, and storytelling.”

His show continues through Oct. 26, and a closing reception will be held at 6 p.m. Oct. 25.

‘Journeys and Convergence’

The roots of “Journeys and Convergence” run deep. Clark, Peterson and Stone initially gathered to learn the batik watercolor method with Sue Orlaske, another local artist. Orlaske died in 2021.

As a group, they developed techniques and exhibited their work as the “Batik Convergence.” Chronicling 16 years of individual artistic journeys and collaborative creative work, “Journeys and Convergence” is connected by the themes of nature, color exploration and storytelling.

Clark’s lifelong passion for art is rooted in her love for nature and shaped by her experiences growing up in the landscapes of Bend. Her work, which spans a variety of mediums including oil, pastel, watercolor, and mixed media, vividly reflects her connection to the natural world. Clark’s artistic journey began in childhood with simple materials and evolved into a practice that includes realism, abstract art and batik watercolor.

Based in La Grande, Peterson’s work reflects the natural beauty and colors of Eastern Oregon. She specializes in watercolor, batik watercolor and collage.

Stone’s art is a blend of storytelling and archetypal themes, reflecting her background in education and psychotherapy. Stone’s work spans watercolor, batik, acrylic and mixed media.

Their show runs through Sept. 28, and a closing reception is set for Sept. 27, 6-8 p.m.

Raffle

Raffle tickets for an original artwork by Raftery, Clark, Peterson and Stone will be available for purchase in person and online at artcentereast.org, beginning at 6 p.m. Sept. 6. Proceeds from the raffle support the ACE Gallery Program.

The raffle winners for “Journeys and Convergence” will be drawn after Sept. 28.

The raffle winner for Raftery’s work will be drawn after Oct. 26.