Help Chad Caldwell Rebuild His Pottery Studio

Help Rebuild My Pottery Studio After Hurricane Helene -

Hi friends, family, and kind-hearted strangers,

If you know me, you know I am not one to ask for help, and I do not take it lightly. I have sat on this decision for almost a year, conflicted, and my heart finally said ask for help, it's ok. So here I am.

My name is Chad Caldwell, and I’m a ceramic artist in WNC whose life and livelihood were deeply impacted by Hurricane Helene. In just a few hours, the storm completely destroyed my pottery studio — the place where I’ve poured my heart, creativity, and countless hours into building a small business and artistic practice I’m truly proud of. The place where I spent three years of my life developing a practice of love in the River Arts District.

( Working at my old studio, throwing platters)

(Freshly made pots in my old studio, I lost due to the flood waters. I was exploring a new style of hand building)

(Owl plate - lost)

( Outside the studio in the RAD)

( One of my pots found in the mud)

(Muddy Pots)

The studio was more than just a workspace — it was my sanctuary and a place to be free. Now, all of it is gone: my kiln, wheels, hand tools, clay stock, glazes, shelving, and the many pieces I was in the middle of creating. Starting from scratch is overwhelming, but I’m determined to rebuild my practice.

I'm asking for your help to raise $10,000 to restore my studio, my ceramic supplies, and get back to creating. The funds will go directly toward:

Purchasing a new kiln and pottery wheel

Replacing essential tools and equipment

Restocking clay, glazes, and materials

Rebuilding storage and workspace infrastructure

Creating new work and experimenting with new glaze recipes

Helping to recoup income from lost and damaged pieces.

Helping pay rent for a studio space.

This support would not only allow me to return to making and sharing my art, but it would also give me the emotional and financial strength to move forward after this loss. Every contribution, no matter the size, brings me one step closer to recovery and getting back to doing what I love.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading, sharing, and supporting my journey.

With gratitude,

Chad Caldwell

@Artfully.Appalachian - social media.