Upstairs Artspace has two new board members, Emanuel “Manny” Konsker, an interior designer, and Victoria “Tori” Stewart, a clinical research professional. Both are residents of Tryon and attended their first Board Meeting in November.
“Our Board of Directors is composed of a dedicated team of business professionals who share a passion for ensuring the success of Upstairs Artspace and making the gallery a vibrant cultural hub for our community,” Board President Patti Trobaugh said. “We are excited to have Manny and Tori join our leadership team, and we look forward to channeling their talents, fresh perspectives, and energy into furthering our mission.”
Originally from Long Island, Konsker is a semi-retired interior designer and has lived in Tryon since 2019. He holds an associate’s degree in fine art from NY School of Interior Design and a bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Albany, NY. After settling in south Florida, he was a senior designer, then partner at an interior design firm for 15 years. When he struck out on his own, he operated a full-service home interior design business for 14 years.
“In addition to bringing expertise in visual arts, I look forward working on business development, marketing, and exhibits for the gallery,” Konsker said. “There are incredible possibilities hidden in Tryon and an enormous amount of talent. I would like to see that flourish.”
Hailing from Connecticut, Stewart holds a master’s degree in business administration from Endicott College, MA, and a master’s degree in biological psychology from the University of Hartford, CT. She has 20-plus years professional experience in clinical research operations in medical devices and pharmaceutical industries. Since 2010, Tori has held various leadership positions of increasing responsibilities at a global medtech and pharmaceutical company. She is a published author and conference speaker on the topic of clinical trial operations.
“I moved to Tryon from Boston in 2017 to pursue my love of the sport of dressage; however, in 2021 I made the decision to end my riding career,” Stewart said. “Always having a passion for contemporary art and illustration in public spaces is where I turned my focus to next. I’m in a position now where I can give back to my community and help elevate art and promote artists. I’m excited to serve as an Upstairs Artspace board member, especially in the areas of volunteer programs, outreach, and communications.”
Stewart is a United States Dressage Federation (USDF) bronze medalist (2016) and a former member of the Norfolk Hunt Club in Dover, MA (2009-2023) where she held such positions as field secretary and volunteer coordinator. Additionally, Stewart has her Level 1 teaching certification in Lagree Fitness. Professionally, she is a Certified Clinical Research Associate (CCRA) through the Association of Clinical Research Professionals.
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