Tryon Painters and Sculptors (TPS) is celebrating 45 years and continuing the tradition of being a haven for local artists.

“Artists wanted camaraderie, a place to paint and a place to display their work,” said TPS President Aviva Kahn. “Our members are very loyal – it’s like a family here; it is a family.”

TPS will begin its celebration with the Tryon Gallery Trot this Saturday, Aug. 10 with a new show, “Moment in Time.”

In August 1968 the charter members of TPS met, elected officers and started the group’s dedication to the needs of local artists. Although all 20 original members were enthusiastic, Lou Ingwerson was truly the driving force of the organization.

The impetus for the group’s formation was to be recognized as a viable organization and to be given space in the planned Tryon Fine Arts (TFA) building. Soon after this meeting,  makeshift space was planned for housing the new group in the balcony of the TFA Center. In 1970 the group took over a storage room next to the Mural Room and the fine arts office and turned it into Gallery One for monthly art shows. When the Mural Room needed painting, members painted a Trade St. scene. In 1972 TPS became a tax-free North Carolina Corporation with a charter, by-laws and regularly designated meeting times.