The Upstairs Artspace announces the start of its annual holiday gift bazaar at 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7, during the Tryon Christmas Stroll. This year’s show – “Wonderland” – features a wide variety of exquisite and locally made crafts, including jewelry, turned wood bowls and serving utensils, clothing, dolls and more.
The public is also invited to attend an opening reception on Saturday, Dec. 8, from 5 – 8 p.m. The bazaar will continue through Christmas Eve, Dec. 24.
“The artists have really outdone themselves this year,” said Upstairs manager, Jennifer Kamell, who organized the fundraising event and exhibition. “Our visitors will be able to find a unique, creative gift for everyone on their list – and each sale benefits both the Upstairs and a local artist.”
More than 24 artists will present works for sale in “Wonderland.” Some of the artists are well-known Polk County artisans, such as Doug Dacey. Others are based in Hendersonville, such as wood-turner Brian Shope; or Asheville, such as jewelry artist Olivia Garcia Desoria and kaleidoscope maker, Marc Tickle; or Spartanburg, S.C. such as Anne Stoddard.
The holiday show is an important fundraising event for the Upstairs, a non-profit gallery dedicated to bringing contemporary art into the community. The gallery’s last exhibit – Heated Exchange: Contemporary Encaustic – was the first major exhibit of encaustic (melted, colorful beeswax) art ever mounted in the Southeast outside of Florida. The next one, Upload, will be one of the first shows ever to focus exclusively on photography made with smartphone cameras.
“’Wonderland’ is a unique event for the Upstairs,” said Kamell. “Like any show, it is a feast for the eyes, but it’s also overflowing with useful things that are priced to make the perfect holiday gift for someone with a fondness for thoughtful and creative surprises.”
For more information, call the gallery at 828-859-2828, or visit the gallery’s website, www.upstairsartspace.org. The gallery is located at 49 S. Trade St., Tryon. Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. During the weeks of the “Wonderland” bazaar, gallery will also be open during the same hours on Sundays.
– article submitted by Harold Maass