Walking into a room filled with hearts is uplifting. You can almost imagine your favorite version of Hallelujah playing in the background. You can’t help but smile.  So please do yourself a favor and visit the fourth annual Have a HeArt for Big Brothers Big Sisters display at the Upstairs Artspace in Tryon.

In a fascinating and very well-attended opening night, this year’s HeArts project was unveiled along with three shows at the Upstairs: Valeria Wartson-Doost’s “Reparations for Nina;” Madame Magar’s The Headdresses of Nina Simone; and the paintings and sculpture of Linda Larsen.

More than 50 area artists have contributed unique works of HeArt to support this current benefit for Big Brothers Big Sisters. These artists have done their part, and now there’s plenty to strike your fancy. With entries ranging from beautiful and sweet to quirky and whimsical, at least one HeArt is sure to stir some connection with each viewer.

Please visit the show and find the HeArt that is calling your name. Winter hours at the Upstairs are 11 a.m-5 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday.

This silent auction fundraiser has a history of intriguing the public for good reason. Winners donate to the youth mentoring programs of Big Brothers Big Sisters, while also getting to take home a piece of “HeArtwork” that continues to please. Many of these supporters have become ardent HeArt collectors, vying for their favorite pieces each year.

Silent auction bidding continues through Saturday, Feb. 14, culminating with the exciting closing bids event from 4-6 p.m. Winning a HeArt could really warm your Valentine’s Day and would surely brighten the future for a local charity serving area children.

-Submitted by Karen Dacey