The 2012 collectible Morris the Horse Christmas ornament is currently on sale.

These ornaments, individually designed by local artists and produced by the Charleston Mint in 24 karat gold on jewelers’ brass, are sold to benefit Tryon Fine Arts Center operations and programs. These ornaments are shipped around the world and many people own every one made since Tommy Thorne-Thomsen produced the first one in 1991.

Thorne-Thomsen designed the ornaments through 2002 and since then local artists Paul Koenen and Kathleen Carson have provided designs for the annual decoration.  This year’s design by Carson offers a whimsical Morris decorating a tree of Christmas presents.

To purchase the 2012 ornament, call 828-859-8322 or visit Tryon Fine Arts Center, Tryon House, Tryon Mountain Hardware or Kathleen’s in Saluda.  Many designs from previous years are also available for purchase.

The fine arts center is open Tuesday-Friday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

– article submitted by Marianne Carruth