More than 300 artists have made it a cultural outpost by converting old industrial buildings by the French Broad River into studios and galleries. According to Jeffrey Burroughs, chairman of the artists, the River Arts District is unique in the entire USA. It has also been named the most interesting travel destination (2017) in the USA by the travel guide Lonely Planet. Now, 80 percent of the buildings are estimated to be damaged, and Burroughs describes the area as apocalyptic.
Some buildings are completely demolished, and some of the galleries no longer exist. In others, artists and craftsmen see their works covered with a decimeter-thick layer of clay.
Hurricane Helene struck the southeastern parts of the USA, leaving great devastation in its wake. More than 200 deaths have been confirmed so far, but many people are still missing.
Country star Dolly Parton has announced that she is donating 10.4 million kronor to support all those affected.
This is my home, she says to CNN.
