Bidding has begun in the Upstairs Artspace’s annual silent and live auction fundraiser. A wide variety of paintings and other works, all donated by supporters of the gallery, will be on display through Sept. 15.
To kick off the event, the gallery invites the public to look over the auction items on Thursday, Sept. 6, at “Bids & Bellinis.” From 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., visitors will be able to peruse the art over peach and sparkling wine cocktails. Wine and cheese also will be served.
“We’ve received some wonderful pieces,” said Lynn Sessoms, gallery co-manager. “We wanted to put together a fun, relaxed evening to give everyone a chance to come see for themselves.”
Visitors can place bids at any time on items included in the silent auction, which will conclude shortly after the live auction and reception on Saturday, Sept. 15, the final evening of the event.
Anyone who has something to share — a painting, sculpture or any interesting object someone might enjoy — can still contribute, says Sessoms, as the gallery will continue accepting donations until the live auction starts.
Anyone interested in viewing the show in smaller groups can do so during the “Collectors’ Tour” fundraiser on Sept. 7, Sept. 12 and Sept. 13. On those evenings, participants will visit three Tryon homes – one each night – and view the residents’ private collections over hors d’oeuvres. The guests will proceed to the gallery for dessert and coffee, and a chance to look over the auction items. Tickets are available at Tryon House, La Bouteille Wine and Beer Boutique, and at the Upstairs, located at 49 S. Trade St., Tryon.
For more information, call the Upstairs at 49 S. Trade St., Tryon; call at 859-2828; or visit the Upstairs website, www.upstairsartspace.org.
– article submitted by Harold Maass