Tryon Painters and Sculptors Gallery has enjoyed exhibiting the best of the local artists throughout the past year, which has resulted in brisk sales particularly in its gallery and gift shop during the holiday season. The New Year will bring a new exhibit of  “small” or “miniature” pieces by members and will be open to the public starting Jan. 12, with a reception on Saturday, Jan. 14 from 5-7 p.m.

Several new classes and workshops have been planned for the studio space in the lower level of the gallery. Janet Orselli, well-known sculptor and drawing teacher, will bring a new evening class on Tuesdays, entitled “Capturing Drawing Techniques,” which is designed for beginning and intermediate drawing students. 

Suzanne Doyle, a popular oil painting instructor at TPS, will also conduct a three-day painting workshop beginning on Monday, Jan. 23.

In the sculpture area, Ann Gleason will start a weekly handbuilding class starting on Jan. 10. Ongoing figure drawing classes with a model are offered on Wednesday nights and Thursdays. Drop in students are encouraged to join but should notify the gallery if they are planning to attend.

More information about workshops and classes can be seen on the Tryon Painters and Sculptors website at tryonpaintersandsculptors.com and on Facebook.

Much of the success of the gallery can be attributed to the generous donations of its friends and members and to the Polk County Community Foundation, which has granted the 48-year-old organization funding, in order to maximize its impact on the community through cultural and educational events.

Since the gallery will be closed during the holidays and into January, questions regarding classes and workshops can be directed to Christine Mariotti at 828-859-8392.

– article submitted by Robin Turner