Join us for a book launch and gallery exhibition celebrating the work of local photographer Jane Brown from October 23, 2026 until December 18, 2026. The new publication, Tryon Through Her Lens: The Jane Brown Photographs 1937–1987, will be introduced alongside an exhibition of 50 images of Tryon and Polk County in the Jeanne Parker Gallery.
The project was led by Brown’s great-niece, Cynthia (Cindy) Davis, who spent two years restoring the featured images in collaboration with local film and photography archivist Isaac King. Many of the photographs in the book and gallery show capture Brown’s favorite picnic sites, hiking destinations, and scenic spots throughout the area, documenting the people, architecture, landscapes, and daily life of twentieth-century Tryon.
There will be an opening reception and walk and talk with Cynthia and Isaac on October 23, 2026, starting at 4:30 PM. All sales from the book launch and gallery show from October 23 to December 18 will exclusively benefit TFAC in honor of Jane Brown’s legacy and her dedication to the community.
Regular gallery hours are 12-4 PM on Fridays and 10 AM-12 PM on Saturdays or by appointment.
About Jane Saxman Brown
Born July 3, 1914, in La Grange, Illinois, Jane Saxman Brown was the daughter of Tryon Colony artist John Sylvan Brown and Rebecca Saxman Brown. After first visiting Tryon in 1936, the family purchased a permanent home in the Valley in 1945. Following the completion of her Master’s Degree in Medical Technology at Michael Reese Hospital in Chicago, Brown moved to Tryon. She worked in the laboratory and X-ray department at St. Luke’s Hospital before pursuing professional photography full-time.
Brown was deeply involved in civic and philanthropic efforts throughout the community. She self-published two limited-edition photography books in 1961 and 1971, which remain highly sought-after visual records of the region. Brown passed away in 1987.
About Cynthia Davis
Cynthia Davis grew up in the region and graduated from Tryon High School. She earned a BA in Studio Art and Art Therapy from Salem College and a Master of Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Following a career as an art therapist, pediatric medical social worker, and National Account Director for AstraZeneca, Davis returned to North Carolina in retirement. She organized the publication of this book and exhibition in honor of her great-aunt.
