Staying Strong

“It’s just heartbreaking,” abstract painter Kevin Andrew says of the catastrophic flooding that occurred in the River Arts District as a result of Hurricane Helene. Though Andrew’s studio-gallery space in the Phil Mechanic Building was spared, about 80 percent of the structures in the RAD were severely damaged or destroyed. “A lot of artists truly lost everything. Not only did they pour their life savings into their spaces, but the art they spent so much time creating is also gone,” says Andrew. “The area is forever changed.” To support those affected, BlackBird Frame & Art will host Staying Strong, an exhibition of art by RAD creatives. According to Jean Stryker, owner of the Merrimon Avenue venue, participating artists will be awarded “extra large commissions” during the show. Fifteen percent of sales will also be donated to the River Arts District Artists, an organization that is working hard to get local creatives back on their feet. “Artists are tired and worn out. We’re just trying to survive,” says Andrew. “So we’re really grateful to have places like BlackBird step up and help out.”