crafty for a cause
Houstonians can get crafty at this artful event that feeds locals in need
Houstonians love many things about the Bayou City: its food, its artists, its big-heartedness. This weekend sees the confluence of all three in the 15th Annual Empty Bowls Houstonevent at the Center for Contemporary Craft. On Saturday, May 18, from 11 am to 3 pm, the Center hosts a day of art and entertainment — all to benefit the Houston Food Bank.
Crafted as a grassroots effort in communities around the country, Empty Bowls is an effort that brings together artists and craftspeople to create one-of-a-kind bowls to sell, donating the proceeds to fight hunger. Last year, in Houston, more than 1,500 bowls were made, from materials such as clay, metal, fiber and wood, all of them donated by individual artists, schools, studios and K through 12 students. Event guests pay $25 for entry, and receive a bowl for their donation. The empty bowl serves as a tangible reminder that so many in the community go without adequate food.
“Empty Bowls is such a unique event, one that marries art, volunteerism, and community as a way to help feed our neighbors in need," says Samantha Oldham, chair of this year's event, who volunteered with Empty Bowls as a college student in North Carolina. "It is a collective effort of local artists who not only donate their one-of-a-kind handmade bowls, they also donate their time to demonstrate at the event and engage with attendees. With more than 1,000 bowls donated each year by the local Houston artists, finding that favorite bowl can be an adventure for attendees."
For every dollar that the Houston Food Bank receives, it provides three meals to hungry Houstonians. So, a guest’s $25 entry fee pays for 75 meals for those in need. (Larger bowls are available for a higher donation.)
The 15th Annual Empty Bowls Houston kicks off at 11 am, with soup served until it’s gone. There will be family-friendly entertainment all day, as well as pottery and woodcutting demonstrations.
The summer months are a time of increased need," says Oldham. "Empty Bowls Houston is an important fundraiser to help make sure students who might otherwise go without meals get the help they need.”
For a sneak peek – and first pick – of the bowls, head to the Preview Party on May 17 from 6-8 pm For $50, guests receive a bowl, and will enjoy beer, wine, and light bites. For more details, visit the official site.
Artist Karen Navarro is a great fit for the Art Lab program.Courtesy of Karen Navarro