Saluda – Preserving a Picturesque America (PAPA) prepared for a summer fundraising art show to benefit Chimney Rock State Park, with an opening reception scheduled for June 26 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Saluda Studios in Saluda, North Carolina. The event aimed to support the park, which suffered significant damage from Tropical Storm Helene, leaving it closed for over eight months.
Art Show to Support Restoration
The fundraiser will feature artwork created by local artists, showcasing the beauty of Chimney Rock before the storm. Forty percent of the proceeds from each sale will directly contribute to the restoration efforts of Chimney Rock State Park. The pieces will be displayed at Saluda Studios and available for purchase online at preservationthroughart.org.
Scott “Doc” Varn, PAPA Executive Director and Founder, expressed the community’s desire to help, stating, “So many people who saw the news reports on the devastation to Chimney Rock have wondered what they could do to help get the town and the state park back on its feet.” He emphasized that the event serves as an invitation for residents of Western North Carolina and Upstate South Carolina to engage in the restoration efforts while enjoying an evening filled with art, music, and storytelling.
The opening reception will not only showcase art but also include music, storytelling, and a presentation by state park rangers. They will provide updates on the current status of Chimney Rock State Park and discuss its goals and future outlook. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn how they can contribute to the park’s recovery while enjoying drinks and light fare.
Chimney Rock’s Recovery Journey
Chimney Rock was one of the hardest-hit areas during Tropical Storm Helene, with many local businesses suffering extensive damage and the state park’s infrastructure severely impacted. The storm’s aftermath left the park closed for an extended period, prompting community members to seek ways to support its restoration.
Varn noted the importance of community involvement, saying, “Our event on June 26 is an invitation for people… to come out and learn how they can be a part of the restoration efforts.” He encouraged attendees to participate in both the event and online purchases of Chimney Rock artwork, reinforcing that every contribution helps in the recovery process.
Chimney Rock State Park plans to officially reopen on June 27, just a day after the fundraising event. This reopening marks a significant milestone in the park’s recovery journey, allowing visitors to once again experience its natural beauty.
The art show and benefit event will take place at Preserving A Picturesque America Gallery at Saluda Studios, located at 144 US Hwy 176 in Saluda, NC. The community is invited to celebrate this momentous occasion and support the park as it continues its restoration efforts.