Exhibitions
LAYERED, WOVEN, PIERCED: APPALACHIAN SOUL A YEAR ON
Tipton-Ashe Gallery @ the Courthouse / 401 Ashe St., Johnson City, TN September 4 - October 18th
Kara Bledsoe, Laura Bowman, Spenser Brenner, Jane Broderick, Lacey Church, Virginia Derryberry, Kimberly English, Felipe Fiuza, Mark Flowers, Jonas Gerard, Mira Gerard, Karena 'Kidd' Graves, Andrew Joyner, Haleah Mauk, Jeremy Miles, Melanie Norris, Emily Parris, Kelly Porter, Natalie Richardson, Todd Simmons, Tema Stauffer, Rebecca Tolley, Pattiy Torno
The exhibition Layered, Woven and Pierced: Appalachian Soul A Year On curated by Lyn Govette features regional artists from Appalachia who were impacted by Hurricane Helene from September 4 to October 18, 2025 at the new Tipton-Ashe Gallery at the Courthouse.
To consider the anniversary of Hurricane Helene, this exhibit serves as a moment for reflection and healing. Memorials have been erected to honor those who lost their lives, and gatherings have been organized for storytelling and community bonding. The narratives shared during these gatherings remind everyone of the hardships faced and the triumphs achieved over the past year. In the face of adversity, Appalachia has shown its layered, woven, and pierced essence. The soul of this region is as deep as its valleys and as enduring as its mountains. As the community continues to rebuild, they do so with a collective understanding that they are not just reconstructing homes but also nurturing a culture of resilience that will carry them forward into the future.
“I was so completely shocked” is often heard by those who went through the event called Hurricane Helene. A year on now….. some of our mountains are so changed, challenging the feeling of endurance, stability, and comfort of these places we call home. The path of destruction has left behind weaves a tapestry of resilience and rebuilding. The effects of Helene were intense, but what has emerged from the wrecking is a profound testament to the strength of the people who call this region home
The aftermath of Hurricane Helene revealed the layers of resilience of Appalachian communities. Houses, some standing for generations, were damaged, but the spirit of the people proved to be even stronger. Communities rallied together, sharing resources and skills, demonstrating how deep relationships are woven into the fabric of daily life. Each layer of support, from neighbors helping neighbors to local organizations stepping up to provide aid, contributed to a sense of hope and renewal while emphasizing the interconnectedness of Appalachian culture. The traditions, stories, and histories old and new become a source of strength. While the storm pierced the tranquil facade of the Appalachian landscape, it also opened up dialogues about change and adaptation. The effects of climate change have never felt more real, and communities are engaging in conversations about sustainability and preparedness for future storms. This piercing insight will spark a transformation in local governance and community planning, fostering a proactive approach to resilience.
In partnership with ETSU Tennessee Climate Office, Rise Up Erwin, Literature & Languages, Women’s, Gender & Sexuality Studies, Sherrod Library and various community and regional organizations. Funding support from the ETSU Mary B. Martin School of the Arts (MBMSOTA), Student Academic Allocation Committee (SAAC), Bravissima! Women Sponsoring the Arts, First Tennessee Development District and the Tennessee Arts Commission. The new home of Tipton Ashe Gallery is located at The Courthouse, 401 Ashe St., Downtown Johnson City, with new public viewing hours: Wednesdays and Saturdays, 11am to 3 pm, Thursdays and Fridays 5 to 7 p.m., with extended hours during events and by appointment.
