How Asheville’s Artists Are Reviving the River Arts District After Hurricane Helene
Rebuilding Asheville’s Arts District: Local Artists Lead the Way
As Hurricane Helene’s floodwaters recede, Asheville’s River Arts District is left grappling with the damage. The area, which is home to hundreds of artists and creative spaces, suffered devastating losses. Local artists, galleries, and arts organizations, however, are coming together to lead the district’s recovery efforts, ensuring that Asheville’s cultural heart continues to thrive.
The Impact on the River Arts District
The flooding caused by Helene inundated most of the River Arts District, submerging over 26 studio buildings. Artists lost not only their workspaces but also irreplaceable artwork, supplies, and equipment. Michaela Kascak, who set up a GoFundMe for artists in the district, described the scene as “16-23 feet of water,” with buildings underwater for days. Clean-up efforts are ongoing, but the road to recovery is long and challenging.
Artists and Organizations Taking the Lead
Local organizations like River Arts District Artists (RADA) are spearheading recovery efforts. RADA has established a Flood Recovery Fund to help artists rebuild their studios and replace lost materials. Volunteers are working to distribute food, water, and other essential supplies to those most affected. The community is rallying around its artists, providing both financial and emotional support during this difficult time.
Prominent artists in the district, including those affiliated with Mark Bettis Gallery and Curve Studios, are organizing fundraisers and events to assist in the recovery. David Sheldon, an artist whose work is featured at the Bettis Gallery, described the overwhelming damage to the studios but also the hope that community support is fostering. Sheldon and others are encouraging art lovers to purchase local art to support the artists who are struggling to rebuild.
Support from the Broader Community
The LEAF Global Arts organization has also stepped up by canceling its October festival and directing efforts toward disaster relief concerts and fundraising events like Disaster reLEAF, aimed at providing financial assistance to artists impacted by the hurricane. In addition to these efforts, Mad Genius Studios has been delivering daily meals to artists and helping coordinate recovery efforts in other devastated parts of Asheville.
How You Can Help
The Asheville community and visitors can help support the recovery in a variety of ways:
- Buy local art: Many artists are selling their work online, with proceeds going toward recovery efforts.
- Donate to recovery funds: The RADA Flood Recovery Fund and other GoFundMe campaigns are directly supporting artists in need.
- Spread the word: Social media is playing a key role in spreading awareness. Use hashtags like #AshevilleArtsRecovery and #SupportLocalArtists to show your support.
Local businesses are also contributing by offering free or discounted services, providing temporary workspaces, and holding community events to raise funds for recovery. The combined efforts of the entire Asheville community are critical in helping the River Arts District come back stronger.
Looking Ahead
Though the path to recovery is long, Asheville’s artists and the community are determined to rebuild. With the help of local organizations, volunteers, and supporters, the River Arts District will not only recover but continue to thrive as a vital part of Asheville’s cultural fabric. For updates on how to help, visit the River Arts District Artists (RADA) website or follow them on social media for information on fundraising events and volunteer opportunities.
#AshevilleArtsRecovery #RiverArtsDistrict #AshevilleStrong #RebuildAsheville
