Hand and Fire Ceramics Tornado Relief

Hi Friends,

My name is Orion Cortez; Sage Cortez, the creator of Hand + Fire, is my big sister. A

few days ago, while Sage and her partner Joshua Hughes were on a trip to Portland for

an event and to see family, their home was struck by a tornado and resulting massive

hail storm. The major impact for them is the damage, not only to their home but to their

livelihood as well. As they are both artists who work out of their home studios, this has

caused them to stop all production of work and focus on repair.

Much was lost in this tragic event: windows, studio roof panels, her large studio doors,

damage to her only kiln, and a loss of all clay and glaze due to it being filled with glass.

All current food was lost, and gardened goods were destroyed. This means that all of the

stored meat, growing apples, and other garden crops needed to make it through the

winter was ruined.

We are asking for a small donation to help Sage and Josh get through the next few

months while they wait for the decision from their homeowner's insurance. This will help

cover the basics: food, minor repairs, clay for work, and materials to clean and restore.

If donating isn't for you, Sage still has some stock for her shop update on the 16th and

17th of August, 2022. (See www.handandfire.com for details.) Buying her products is

always a great way to support her as an artist.

Any amount of help would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you so much,

Orion Cortez,

concerned brother