WNC HELENE ARTIST RELIEF

Dear Friends and Supporters,
At Preserving A Picturesque America (PAPA), our mission to protect and celebrate the breathtaking beauty of our country’s beautiful natural landscapes, cities, and towns started in Western North Carolina. From the serene French Broad River to the historic communities of Asheville, Hot Springs, Weaverville, Chimney Rock, Paint Rock, and Del Rio, these cherished areas are at the heart of what makes our region special.
Recently, these communities have faced unprecedented devastation from Hurricane Helene and the tropical storm that followed. Many of our local artists—who are a vital part of our cultural fabric—have been displaced, lost their studios, their artwork, and their businesses. Now, more than ever, they need our help.
We invite you to stand with us in supporting both the artists and the local communities impacted by this disaster. By purchasing Western North Carolina art, 50% of the proceeds will go directly to the artist, and the other half will go to relief funds to restore our beloved French Broad region. All other purchases, which include PAPA publications, 100% of the proceeds will go to relief.
If you’re not able to purchase art, you can still make a difference by contributing a tax-deductible donation. Your generosity will help rebuild lives, restore businesses, and support the recovery of our treasured communities.
Thank you for your compassion and support in this critical time. Together, we can make a lasting difference.
With sincere gratitude,
Doc, Sam & the PAPA Team
Shop WNC Relief Here

Charleston: Preservation Through Art Exhibition

The Charleston exhibition at the City Art Gallery in Charleston, SC, has passed but you can still shop online to support our Charleston artists and conservation organizations.

Shop Charleston Here
America: the Land We Live In

Exciting news!

PBS is piloting America: the Land We Live In with our founder Scott Varn and co-host Sophia Michelin. This new show is based on PAPA’s ambitious mission to rediscover the natural and historic landmarks featured in the 1800’s publication Picturesque America.

Read all about it!

CURRENT EXHIBITION:

We seek the vantage point of the early adventure artists…

to recreate the art of the picturesque…

and preserve the sacred places that inspired so many.

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Words from Our Artists

“It is my hope that, as we cultivate our awareness of our complex and essential connection with Nature, we can begin to heal the earth and ourselves.”

Deborah Squier

“When my path converged with PAPA’s, there was a sense of adventure–one I hadn’t felt since hiking the Appalachian Trail. From the moment I met Doc (Scott), I knew what he had ahold of was unique, and I couldn’t wait to be part of it.”

Mike Wurman

“I find inspiration in the solidity of the rocks and mountains, the movement of cascading water, the texture of foliage, and the way the light interacts with these elements. It is my goal to compose paintings that invite the viewer to share in my perspective and envelope them with a sense of place.”

Chris Bell

We are a 501(c)3 charitable organization.