‘Fire Up the Arts’
![The Pisgah High art fundraiser is currently underway. Donated photo](https://smokymountainnews.s3.amazonaws.com/media/k2/items/cache/be21928d93dba3a63efcd1fc3845b090_XL.jpg?javer=2502120405)
Pisgah High School’s art department is in need of a working kiln, leaving students without the opportunity to explore ceramics — a transformative art form that fosters creativity, confidence and hands-on skill development.
The devastation caused by the Hurricane Helene flooding last fall has only added to the challenges, delaying access to essential tools for the Canton school.
That’s why the Haywood County Arts Council (HCAC), in partnership with Quick Draw, has launched the “Fire Up the Arts” campaign to raise $7,000 to fully equip Pisgah High School’s ceramics program.
This funding will provide a high-quality kiln, professional-grade pottery wheel, durable bats for throwing clay, metal shelving for storage and a variety of glazes to spark creativity.
Thanks to an incredible deal on nearly new equipment, every dollar counts toward transforming the art room into a fully functional ceramics studio. To make your gift go even further, a generous donor has pledged to match up to $3,500 in donations through the end of February — doubling the impact of every contribution.
“Art education is critical for fostering creativity, confidence, and problem-solving skills,” said Tonya Harwood, HCAC executive director. “Claywork, in particular, provides students with a unique opportunity to connect with their creativity in a tactile and rewarding way. We’re committed to ensuring Pisgah students have access to this experience.”
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With your support, Pisgah High School students can experience the joy, challenge and reward of working with clay, bringing art back to life in their classroom.
To contribute, visit haywoodarts.org.