The Upstairs Artspace’s Collectors’ Tour fundraiser concludes this week with two more chances to look at art collections in Tryon homes. James Blanton and Gary Corn

will welcome guests to their home, Mill Farm Inn, on Wed., Sept. 12, and Linda and Chris Tinkler will host the final tour on Thurs., Sept. 13.
At Mill Farm, art historian and author Michael McCue will help Blanton and Corn guide visitors through a widely varied collection of paintings and other pieces, including works by many Tryon artists of historical importance.
The Tinklers have an eclectic collection of regional artists and outsider art, with a sprinkling of New England artists. The first tour, which took place Friday at the home of artist Margaret Curtis and Harold Maass, featured a mix of contemporary and Haitian art.
“We’re looking forward to sharing what we love about the art on our walls,” said Chris Tinkler. “Judging from the first tour, the next two are going to be informative and fun.”
From 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on both nights, visitors will stop by the home of the evening, where the hosts will offer a brief tour to highlight some of their favorite pieces. Guests will be encouraged to ask questions, or simply peruse the art and socialize over hors d’oeuvres and wine.
After leaving the homes, visitors will be invited to coffee and dessert at the Upstairs, where they will be able to look over works donated by friends of the gallery to be sold in the annual Silent and Live Art Auction. The auction fundraiser concludes with a reception and live auction on Sat., Sept. 15.
Tickets for the tours are available at the Upstairs, 49 S. Trade St., Tryon; at Tryon House;, La Bouteille wine and beer boutique; or from one of the hosts. For more information, or for directions to the homes, call the Upstairs at 859-2828. Business hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday.
– article submitted
by Harold Maass