The Upstairs Artspace is pleased to announce Michele Deudne as executive director and invites the community to welcome her at a wine and cheese reception, Wednesday, July 20, from 5-7 p.m. in the gallery at 49 South Trade St., Tryon.

“We have given Michele a little more than a month to get her feet wet,” said Scott Lane, chairman of the Upstairs board, “and now it’s time to welcome her with a toast to new beginnings, for her and for the gallery. We hope everyone will come to wish her well and to share stories about the gallery’s almost 40-year history. We especially hope those new to Tryon and/or the gallery will stop in to meet Michele and learn about us.”

Deudne has been a Tryon resident since 2004, arriving after eight years as associate director of alumni affairs at Allegheny College, Meadville, Pa. Also a professional riding instructor, specializing in dressage for 30 years, Deudne says she was initially attracted to Tryon for its equestrian history.

“But as a lover of the arts, the amazing cultural life here was equally attractive,” she says.

“I volunteered to help at the Upstairs when I first arrived, and have attended many openings, and have always been impressed by the exhibits,” she says. “When I worked for Andy Millard at Millard & Company, among other responsibilities I organized the art exhibitions as manager of the Depot gallery. I enjoyed working with the artists and have a love of contemporary art in particular, so this opportunity to direct the Upstairs Artspace was the perfect opportunity to combine all of my skills in one wonderful job.”

– article submitted

by Clare O’Sheel