Sculpture by Justin Roberts. Image courtesy of Justin and Shannon Roberts.

Cyclones cause significant damage to artists' livelihoods, but CERF+ will help you prepare for the natural disaster.

This article was written by Charity Hall, communications manager at The Craft Emergency Relief Fund.​

Artists pour their heart and soul into creating stunning works of art in their studios. These creative spaces are not only filled with valuable tools and materials but also hold priceless pieces of artwork. However, the threat of natural disasters, such as tornadoes, can pose a significant risk to art studios. 

In December 2021, deadly tornadoes swept through western Kentucky near the community where folk and eco artists Justin Roberts and Shannon Davis-Roberts reside and specialize in willow craft and sculpture. At first it seemed that they were spared because the tornadoes did not take a direct hit to their home. But the following morning, an accident temporarily upended their lives. Justin remembered, “My wife and two children were in a no-fault accident due to non-functioning traffic lights.”

Luckily, no one was seriously injured, but their 2013 Toyota Tundra was totaled. They relied on the truck not only as their only mode of transportation, but also to gather and transport the branches they use to create their work. Because they couldn’t gather their art making materials, they were unable to work. Justin applied for and received an Emergency Relief grant from CERF+ to help cover some of their lost wages. 

The Roberts’ unfortunate experience was unavoidable. Nevertheless, it is important for artists who live in tornado-prone areas to do everything possible to stay safe and to try to minimize potential damage. In this article, we offer a few tips to improve your safety and protect your artwork and creative workspace.

Sculpture by Justin Roberts. Image courtesy of Justin and Shannon Roberts.

 

Create an emergency plan

Developing an emergency plan is the first step towards safeguarding your artistic practice. Familiarize yourself with local tornado warning systems, such as sirens or weather alert apps, and stay updated with weather forecasts. Designate a safe area where you can seek shelter during a tornado. A basement, storm cellar, or an interior room on the lowest level with no windows is ideal. Make sure to communicate your emergency plan with studio mates, friends, and family.

 

Reinforce studio structures

To enhance the structural integrity of your art studio, consider reinforcing its construction. Consult with a structural engineer to assess your studio's stability and discuss potential reinforcement options. Installing hurricane straps, bracing walls, reinforcing doors and windows, and securing roof trusses can all strengthen your studio against the powerful forces of a tornado. Reinforcements like these can reduce the risk of damage to your studio and its contents.

 

Protect windows and doors

Windows and doors are vulnerable entry points for tornado winds and debris. Protect them with impact-resistant shutters, storm windows, or protective film. Reinforced doors made from solid wood or metal can provide an extra layer of security.

Additionally, installing sturdy locks and deadbolts will help keep your studio secure during extreme weather events.

According to the National Weather Service, “It is now believed that a solid structure (no windows or doors open) has a better chance of escaping major damage.”

 

Secure artwork and equipment

Artwork and equipment are the lifeblood of your studio and require proper protection. Secure valuable pieces of artwork by mounting them securely to the walls using earthquake-resistant hooks or brackets. Utilize art storage racks or cabinets to organize and safeguard your artwork when appropriate. Consider using straps or fasteners to secure heavy equipment and shelving units, preventing them from toppling over during high winds.

 

Obtain proper insurance coverage

Obtaining comprehensive insurance coverage for your art studio is a critical step in mitigating potential losses caused by tornadoes.

Review your existing insurance policy to ensure it adequately covers both your artwork and studio contents.

Consult with an insurance agent specialized in fine art coverage to determine the right policy for your needs.

Keep an up-to-date inventory of your artwork, tools, and supplies, including photographs and detailed descriptions, as this will assist in the claim process, if necessary. You can use Artwork Archive, an onilne art database, to maintain your inventory. And if you need to send information to your insurance company, you can easily export a report with all of the relevant information directly from your Artwork Archive account. 

Back up digital files

In the digital age, many artists rely on computers and digital cameras to document their artwork. Protect your digital archives and other important files by regularly backing them up to an external hard drive or a secure cloud storage service like Artwork Archive. In case of damage or loss, having these backups will be invaluable.

Tornadoes can be unpredictable and devastating, but taking proactive measures to protect your home and art studio can help to minimize potential damage and improve the safety and security of your creative practice.

Remember, protecting your art studio is not just about safeguarding your physical space but also preserving the creativity, hard work, and passion that drive your artistic endeavors. 

Today, Justin and Shannon are back at work, focusing on their artwork while building community. They founded the New South Arts Initiative, a non-profit organization focused on supporting and growing biological and cultural diversity in the American South through the arts and arts related activities. They install social, Eco-art installations, and host cross-sectional, artistic programs to ignite conversations, invoking social change. One notable program, Creative Communities with Justin Roberts, tackles noxious plant removal by engaging the community through social art. “It started in our hometown public library in Murray, Kentucky. Since December 2018, we have removed over 2,500 invasive plants from Kentucky public lands.”

The Craft Emergency Relief Fund (CERF+) serves artists working in craft disciplines by providing emergency relief assistance, advocacy, and preparedness resources.