The Tryon Downtown Development Association concluded its annual ornament auction this past Saturday evening, Dec. 14 with a reception at the Upstairs/Artspace.

More than 80 original  and festive creations were donated by local artists and bids were made on them as they hung on two trees displayed at the gallery.

Three awards were given to the artists contributing their work.  The most creative ornament  was  designed  by Kathleen Carson.

The artist bringing in the most dollars for TDDA went to Rich Nelson.

The artist who received the most number of bids was Kim  Nelson, seen in the photo receiving a prize from Christine Mariotti, ornament auction chairperson.

Several ornaments did not receive bids so they are still on display at the gallery and can be purchased for the minimum bid amount.

All donations are earmarked for the TDDA gallery trot events which will continue in downtown Tryon, starting in April.

TDDA appreciates all those who bid on the ornaments and especially the Upstairs/Artspace gallery who donated the space for the  ornament  display as part of its Wonderland Holiday Bazaar which is ongoing until Dec. 24.

– article submitted 

by Christine Mariotti