Our studio home in River Arts District of Asheville was deluged by the confluence of the Swannanoa and French Broad Rivers. Semi trailer trucks bashed and smashed in many buildings. A truck sank down and blocked driveway behind our studio home in the River Arts District on the second floor of Riverview Station.

The river flooded the downstairs studios to 26 feet. The water reached to as much as 3 feet, and stayed for five days. It ruined wood furniture, art books, prints, paper, frames, lighting, electrical equipment, tools, furniture, business records, computer accessories and worst of all works in progress stored or on easels that fell over.Mold had begun grow on wood and paper. Especially sad was student work, charcoal drawings and portfolio work for art school applicants in high school. Two of local galleries reported they were flooded to the ceiling, and we lost six pieces entirely.

Our first response was to remove artwork, tools, materials and supplies. We were forced to abandon as quickly as possible, without electricity, move everything to storage units. Students, friends, family and dozens of volunteers showed up to strip the building down to the studs. At this time, it is uncertain if the building will be returned to its former use. It housed over 60 studios, work spaces, cafes, and galleries. Restoration seems especially doubtful on the ground floor.

Our hope is to return by this summer. upstairs in our former space. In the meantime, our resources are stretched thin. You can help, by making a donation to our personal funding project. And if you are not able, or have already, please share the link. We are grateful for all the support from friends, neighbors and volunteers. Thank you.