The TDDA proudly hosts its annual ornament auction this 2012 Christmas season. Last year’s auction raised $800, all of which was graciously put towards the Tryon Gallery Trot’s budget for their season.

The auction will open on the evening of the TDDA sponsored Christmas stroll on Friday, Dec. 7 from 5-8 p.m. at Skyuka Fine Art. It will conclude with last minute bids and a reception on Saturday, Dec. 15 from 6-8 p.m. with bidding ending at 7 p.m. Winning bidders not present will be notified. Prizes from local merchants will be awarded to artists as well.

Local artists are invited to participate by donating handmade ornaments for this auction (multiple ornaments will be graciously accepted).

“Last year’s ornaments were outstanding little one-of-a-kind masterpieces,” said Steve Cobb, president of the TDDA.

Many of them ended up having very exciting last minute ‘hot bidding wars. The TDDA is hopeful that many artists who have participated in any of the popular Tryon Gallery Trots will consider donating ornaments.

Donation deadline for the auction will be Dec. 4. Ornaments should be signed, ready to hang and dropped off at Skyuka Fine Art located at 133 N. Trade St. in downtown Tryon. They will be hung on a rotating Christmas tree for optimal viewing.

Prizes will be awarded to artists in three categories; highest money brought in by one ornament, hottest bid activity and most creative ornament.

For more information, contact Kim Nelson at Skyuka Fine Art; 828-817-3783, or info@skyukafineart.com.

– article submitted by Kim Nelson