Tryon is an “artsy” kind of town and never more so than on the annual Art Trek weekend, this year June 27-29.
Sponsored by Tryon’s Upstairs Artspace, this year’s Trek promises a lively weekend for all as the whole town joins in the fun. A day of discovery and surprise awaits those who follow the mapped route through summer-green foothills to the studios of 24 of the areas most talented artists, and return to Tryon and surrounding towns to explore the vibrant shops, galleries and restaurants, many of which will offer art-themed specials. The weekend begins with an opening reception and silent auction at the Upstairs gallery from 5 – 7:30 p.m., Friday June 27 with studio tours and in-town events, Saturday and Sunday.
Central to the weekend events, of course, are the artists themselves, whose studios will be open, Saturday June 28, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday June 29, noon – 5 p.m. In addition to seeing where and how these talented artists work, beautiful one-of-a-kind pieces can be purchased right on the spot. This year’s artists include painters, encaustic artists, fiber artists, metal artists, potters, collage artists, mixed media artists, an acoustic guitar/ukulele artist, a wood carver and sculptors. In addition to the work in their studios, each artist will submit a representative piece for a silent auction installation at the Upstairs. These pieces will be on display for bidding beginning at the opening reception on June 27 until the closing reception on Friday July 25.
Trekkers can pick up maps and begin their tours with a free continental breakfast at the Upstairs at 10 a.m. on the 28. Later they can break for other than cultural nourishment at one of the area’s popular restaurants offering exclusive Art Trek luncheon and dinner menus and specials. Lavender Bistro and Saluda’s Green River Barbecue are excellent choices for the weary trekker in need of a break. An afternoon stop at Walker O’Duggan’s Coffee and Ice cream Pub, newly located at the entrance to the town, should be added to the itinerary as well. What’s a summer road trip without ice cream?
Art Trek has been a staple of the summer art scene in Tryon since 2009. Art lovers and collectors from throughout western North Carolina and upstate South Carolina look forward to the opportunity each year to see some of the region’s most talented artists at work. Add to that this year, the town of Tryon has gone Art Trek crazy and you have a weekend destination to circle on your calendar.
A list of the participating artists and free maps to the open studios can be picked up at the Upstairs gallery and at local businesses in Tryon. The Upstairs is located at 49 South Trade Street in Tryon. The hours are 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., Tuesday – Saturday. For additional information about Art Trek 2014 visit www.upstairsartspace.org or call 828-859-2828.

– article submitted
by Clare O’Sheel