When Hurricane Helene hit, the River Arts District was left in ruins. Once full of life, streets were now littered with debris and broken structures. But amidst all the destruction, what stood out most was the people. Artists, residents, and volunteers came together, supporting each other and finding ways to rebuild. The community’s strength was evident, showing that hope can thrive even in tough times.
I photographed barrels surrounded by debris, with a mural that read ‘Flood Back Love.’ It was a powerful reminder of the community’s determination to rebuild. Despite everything, love and support flowed back into the River Arts District. This kind of solidarity is what makes Asheville so unique.
To support recovery efforts, consider donating to organizations making a real difference in the community. Groups like
World Central Kitchen,
MountainTrue,
BeLoved Asheville,
All Hands and Hearts
and Brother Wolf Animal Rescue are working on the ground to help residents rebuild and keep Asheville’s spirit alive.
The ArtsAVL Trolley is back, offering free tours through Downtown and the River Arts District every Second Saturday from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM. It’s a beautiful way to see how the district is bouncing back and to support local artists. Learn more about the ArtsAVL Trolley here.
Second Saturday Art Strolls have returned, inviting everyone to experience the creativity of the River Arts District. Upcoming events include workshops like the Pebble Jewelry Workshop on October 13, 2024, and The Painter’s Craft on October 13-14, 2024. These events are part of ongoing efforts to unite people through art and community. You can find more about these events here.
The response from the community was incredible—people genuinely connected with the message of ‘Flood Back Love.’ It reminded me of how strong we are when we come together. The River Arts District isn’t just a collection of studios and galleries—it’s a community of artists, creators, and resilient people who support each other.
The rebuilding efforts have brought people together, and seeing events return to the district is a hopeful sign of recovery.
Photography helps me make sense of the world, especially during tough times. After Hurricane Helene, I found it hard to share photos of the damage on social media. Those images needed more context than just a post. So, instead, I shared a different picture—a cluster of mushrooms. They showed a quiet kind of resilience.
If you want to join me on this journey, follow me on social media.
This storm has given me a new perspective, and there’s so much I want to share. I want to keep telling stories of resilience, hope, and community, and I’m excited to continue capturing life here in Western North Carolina.
More is to come, and I can’t wait to share it with you. Whether you’re inspired by resilience, curious about the vibrant communities of Western North Carolina, or need a reminder of the strength of the human spirit, there’s always something to learn from the people around you. I hope my photography helps you see and appreciate these moments.
