The Mountaineer

January 18, 2025

The Haywood County Arts Council has provided $13,000 in relief funds to 20 local artists impacted by the devastating effects of Hurricane Helene. These grants provide critical support to help artists rebuild, recover and move forward from their losses.

“As an artist myself who lost pieces in the floodwaters, I understand the heartbreak and uncertainty that come with such a loss,” shared Tonya Harwood, HCAC Executive Director. “This initiative was born out of a desire to help our creative community and the response was truly heartwarming.”

Donations poured in from across the country, amplifying the impact of the fund. Additionally, ticket holders for the canceled Smoky Mountains Bluegrass Festival, originally scheduled for Oct. 12, 2024, were given the option to donate their ticket funds to the relief effort. Many chose to contribute, underscoring the incredible generosity of this community.

“Haywood County may be small, but our hearts are big. We are so grateful to everyone who helped make this possible,” said Harwood.

One of the recipients was Hannah Burnisky, owner of Cold Mountain Art Collective in downtown Canton. Her gallery and clay studio, a beloved hub for artists and the community, were completely destroyed by flooding. The loss came just three years after she rebuilt from Hurricane Fred’s devastation.

“Artists pour their souls into their work and when that outlet is taken away from them so forcefully… it’s a difficult thing to move forward from,” Burnisky posted on her Instagram page. “We cannot express our gratitude enough to those who have donated funds, time, and emotional support not just for us but for our area as a whole.”

The HCAC remains committed to supporting local artists in their endeavors to create and thrive, even in the face of adversity.