‘A Tale of Two Cities’ Curators’ Panel: ‘Art is the Highest Form of Hope’
Join the curators of ‘A Tale of Two Cities’ as they discuss how art can drive economic recovery and strengthen cultural identity after a natural disaster.
In the wake of natural disasters, art can serve as a lifeline for communities in urgent need of healing. Today, we’re chatting with the curators behind A Tale of Two Cities, a cross-cultural exhibition commemorating the anniversaries of hurricanes Helene in Western North Carolina and Katrina in New Orleans. Our guests include Kenn Kotara, an artist based in Asheville; Jan Gilbert, an artist from New Orleans; and Andrew Rogers, the executive director of the New Orleans Academy of Fine Art (NOAFA), where the exhibition will be held.
The discussion centers on the cultural impact and aftermath of both hurricanes on their respective cities. Each guest shares their experiences and insights regarding how art has played a critical role in recovery efforts. Ken Kotara reflects on the Asheville community’s resilience, highlighting how local artists have embraced collaboration and creativity to rebuild their cultural identity. Jan Gilbert adds to this narrative by discussing the unique challenges New Orleans artists face, emphasizing their commitment to using their work as a form of healing. Andrew Rogers underlines the importance of showcasing the interconnected stories of artists from both cities. He encourages listeners to engage with the arts and support local talent, underscoring the healing power of creativity in the aftermath of adversity.
Through a shared platform, A Tale of Two Cities invites artists to reflect on their experiences with climate-related disasters and engage the public in meaningful conversations about hope and recovery. The exhibition emphasizes the importance of protecting and representing vulnerable artists, affirming that art can catalyze healing in communities facing existential challenges. With both physical and virtual showcases, this exhibition aspires to inspire ongoing connections between the two cities, promoting cultural exchange and reinforcing the role of art in building resilient communities.
A Tale of Two Cities opens Sept. 13 and runs through Nov. 8, 2025, at NOAFA.
Links Mentioned in This Episode
A Tale of Two Cities feature story
A Tale of Two Cities virtual exhibition
Blue Ridge National Heritage Area
About A Tale of Two Cities and Participating Organizations
A Tale of Two Cities is an exhibition that unites artists from New Orleans and Western North Carolina, exploring the profound role of art in the aftermath of environmental disasters. Opening on September 13, 2025, at the New Orleans Academy of Fine Arts (NOAFA), this exhibition showcases artworks created in response to the hurricanes that have shaped the narratives of both regions. Coinciding with significant anniversaries of Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Helene, the exhibition serves as a powerful testament to resilience, community, and the healing potential of creativity.
The organizations involved in A Tale of Two Cities include the New Orleans Academy of Fine Arts (NOAFA), which has been a nonprofit since its establishment in 1980. NOAFA is dedicated to preserving and promoting the fine arts through engaging educational programs and fostering a welcoming community atmosphere; the RADA Foundation, which supports the River Arts District Artists, a nonprofit that assists over 750 working artists and studios along Asheville's picturesque French Broad River; the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area (BRNHA), committed to preserving and promoting the cultural and natural heritage of 25 counties in Western North Carolina, including the Qualla Boundary; and ArtsvilleUSA, another nonprofit based in Asheville, serves the arts and crafts community across all 23 counties of Western North Carolina.
All images published with permission of the artist(s); featured image: ‘Things That Float’ by Rontherin Ratliff.