Reviving Artisans: Lowe’s Holiday Pop-Up Supports Craft Recovery

Asheville’s River Arts District (RAD) has been a thriving hub for local artists since the 1980s, with a variety of creators making their homes along the historic French Broad River. However, when Hurricane Helene struck on September 27, 2023, it caused catastrophic flooding, with water rising 24.67 feet and devastating much of the district. Many artists, including Kimberly Hundertmark, a glass artist, lost their studios, work, and inventory, particularly devastating during the peak selling season from October through December, when they typically make 70% of their annual sales.

In the wake of the storm, Lowe’s, a North Carolina-based company, stepped in to support the RAD community. On Small Business Saturday, November 30, Lowe’s hosted a Holiday Pop-Up event at its West Asheville store, featuring 27 RAD artists. The company provided $1,000 grants to help the artists replenish their supplies and gave them a space to showcase and sell their work. The event was a success, with hundreds of shoppers browsing the unique crafts, from hand-blown glass to gemstone jewelry, while enjoying local food.

The event brought a sense of relief to artists like Spencer Beals, a sketch artist whose studio had been destroyed by flooding. Despite the devastation, he was grateful for the opportunity to sell during the busy holiday season and made several sales. Jewelry maker Melanie Saint-Jean, also impacted by the storm, appreciated the financial support and networking opportunities the event offered, including connecting with a potential wholesale buyer.

Lowe’s support went beyond just financial aid—it allowed the artists to reconnect with their community and continue their work. As the district works to rebuild, the event has instilled a sense of hope and demonstrated the power of corporate support in a time of crisis. The RAD community, though still recovering, is slowly finding its way back, and the event served as a reminder of the resilience and generosity that can emerge from adversity.

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