•

WHEN THE WATERS ROSE

•

WHEN THE WATERS ROSE

• WHEN THE WATERS ROSE • WHEN THE WATERS ROSE

Photo: Rene Treece, Luxe House Photography

the Artists Rose… TOGETHER

The RADA Foundation was established in 2024 as a forward-thinking response to the growing needs of artists in Asheville’s River Arts District. Its founding was accelerated by Hurricane Helene, which devastated the district on September 27, 2024.

In the face of historic flooding, the artist community came together to rebuild, organize, and act. The RADA Foundation quickly moved from concept to catalyst, raising funds, distributing emergency stipends, and helping more than 350 artists return to their creative work.

Since then, we have launched high-impact recovery programs, opened the RAD Outpost gallery in downtown Asheville, and built partnerships that continue to grow the creative economy in Western North Carolina. 

INITIATIVES

  • The RAD Outpost: A downtown gallery space for displaced artists

  • Emergency Artist Stipends: Direct aid to working artists

  • The Atlanta Outpost: “Love Asheville from Afar” connected Asheville artists to new buyers at Ponce City Market in Atlanta

  • The Community Catalyst Fund: Grants for creative spaces and leaders devastated by Hurricane Helene

  • Fundraisers & Partnerships: Collaborations with The Orange Peel, Wedge Brewing, and others

IMPACT

  • 750 artists connected through studios, galleries, and events

  • Over 500 artists have resumed work since Hurricane Helene

  • Over $1 million raised for artist recovery and district revitalization

  • 3 new market programs launched to support artist sales

  • 1 downtown Outpost gallery opened to keep art visible and accessible

  • Dozens of scholarships and support services in progress for 2025

SUPPORT WHERE IT MATTERS MOST

FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGNS

From emergency response efforts to long-term space initiatives, our fundraising campaigns directly serve artists. Explore current and upcoming opportunities to give.

DONATE NOW →

COMMUNITY CATALYST FUND

This initiative invested in creative space, leadership, and infrastructure to ensure artists stay rooted in the River Arts District.

DONATE NOW →

ARTISTS’ SCHOLARSHIPS

Help us remove barriers and expand opportunity through scholarships that support artistic development, studio access, and professional growth.

SPONSOR A SCHOLARSHIP →

Stories of Impact and Celebration

Take a look at some of the events that have helped shape the Foundation’s work and raised critical funds for artists:

  • RAD Outpost Grand Opening, December 2024

  • Atlanta Holiday Market, November 2024

  • Art After the Storm Fundraiser at The Orange Peel, October 2024

  • Wedge Brewing Community Art Night, March 2025

  • Spring Rebirth Gallery Series, April to June 2025

Ways to Participate

  • RSVP for an upcoming event

  • Donate to an active campaign

  • Sponsor an artist or program

  • Share with friends and followers

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ARTS BY DONATING TODAY!
EVERY AMOUNT MAKES A BIG DIFFERENCE IN THE LIVES OF OUR ARTISTS AND OUR COMMUNITY!

Your donation helps artists stay in Asheville, rebuild their lives, and continue to shape the cultural soul of the city.

  • Every dollar makes a difference

  • Your gift is tax-deductible

  • Matching gifts may double your impact

Prefer to mail a check or set up a legacy gift?

CONTACT US →