As the waters recede and the headlines fade, the lingering impact of Hurricane Helene on North Carolina’s ceramic community remains deeply felt. In this issue, we share the stories of four artists whose lives and practices were profoundly disrupted by the storm and one story exploring the philanthropic efforts of the Craft Emergency Relief Fund (CERF+). Their voices offer not only insight into the immense personal and professional loss they endured but also reflect the quiet strength that defines their work.

It is vital that we hold space for these narratives, not as fleeting news, but as part of an ongoing commitment to support their recovery. Rebuilding a studio, firing a kiln, and returning to creative practice cannot – and should not – be confined to the brief window of public attention. True recovery takes time, resources, and the unwavering commitment of the ceramics community.

Let this issue serve as both a record and a call to action. As artists, educators, and collectors, we have the ability to ensure that the path forward is not dictated by trends or passing interest but by sustained, meaningful investment in these artists and their work. This and February's articles will all be free and open to the public.

In preparing this issue, Studio Potter reached out to numerous artists across North Carolina who were impacted by Hurricane Helene and the subsequent floods. While we are honored to share the voices of four artists on these pages, we acknowledge that many others were unable to participate. For some, the weight of reliving such a traumatic experience – compounded by the ongoing demands of rebuilding – made revisiting their stories too difficult at this time. Their absence in this issue does not diminish their loss or the significance of their recovery. It serves as a reminder that healing is not linear, and the effects of this storm will ripple through the community long after.

The New Year often reminds us of fresh beginnings, but it’s also important to honor the process of rebuilding – whether in our studios, communities, or personal lives. Growth takes time, and healing requires energy. Let’s remember to give ourselves and others the grace to move forward at our own pace.

As we spoke with artists navigating the aftermath, it became clear that no single issue could adequately capture the breadth of this impact. In recognition of the scale of this disaster, Studio Potter is dedicating two consecutive issues to highlight the voices and stories of just a handful of the artists affected. These features – four this month and four next – represent only the tip of the iceberg. Our hope is that these stories honor not only those we spotlight but also the many others whose lives and practices were upended. This is more than documentation; it’s a testament to a community rising, even as the waters recede.

Thank you for being part of this incredible community. 

Randi O'Brien, editor and executive director