Smart Bets: 31 days of post-Helene art

"The House" by Kira Bursky, courtesy of the artist

To process life-changing events, writers write their feelings and singers sing their feelings. After Tropical Storm Helene, artist Kira Bursky drew her feelings. Throughout October, the young artist put onto paper one image a day, every day. All 31 of those original pieces will be on display at the West Asheville Public Library for two months starting with an opening reception on Thursday, Jan. 16, 6-8 p.m. A limited number of signed 12-by-12-inch prints of each image — both framed and unframed — will be for sale, as will a hardcover book featuring all 31 prints. Themes of the expressive and frequently unsettling pieces reflect images and feelings that may resonate with many Western North Carolina residents who experienced Helene and its aftermath — titles include The House, The Island, The Drive, Binoculars, Passport, Boots and The Scarecrow. Bursky is also a fashion designer and film/video maker through her company, All Around Artsy. The artist will donate 20% of profits from sales to BeLoved Asheville and ArtsAVL to support Helene relief efforts. avl.mx/efb

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About Kay West
Kay West began her writing career in NYC, then was a freelance journalist in Nashville for more than 30 years, including contributing writer for the Nashville Scene, Nashville correspondent for People magazine, author of five books and mother of two happily launched grown-up kids. In 2019 she moved to Asheville and continued writing (minus Red Carpet coverage) with a focus on food, farming and hospitality. She is a die-hard NY Yankees fan.

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