Empty Bowls is a grassroots event designed to combat hunger. It raises awareness and funds by providing attendees with a hearty meal, a handmade bowl, and a metaphorical reminder of hunger—the “Empty Bowl."
Since its launch in 1990, ceramic artists worldwide have organized Empty Bowls events, raising tens of millions of dollars for local food banks, soup kitchens, and shelters.
Maine College of Art & Design’s inaugural Empty Bowls event will take place on Thursday, May 1, from 5:30–7:00 pm. MECA&D will pre-sell 200 tickets for $35 ($20 for MECA&D students and children under 12), which includes a meal and a bowl handmade at MECA&D. Guest chef Hannah Ryder of Portland’s Twelve restaurant will create a signature dish.
Photo courtesy of Kari Radasch
Students enrolled in the Empty Bowls course have researched and volunteered at several local non-profit organizations combating food insecurity and selected Wayside Food Programs in Portland as the beneficiary. Wayside uses food to reduce waste, fight hunger, and strengthen community through volunteer-driven programming and a collaborative, cross-industry network of partners in Southern Maine. Their work is rooted in partnerships utilizing approaches that reinforce social connection and individual dignity, and they strive to limit their impact on the natural environment. Wayside believes that the health and vibrancy of a community depends on the physical, social, and economic well-being of all community members.
Photo By Kari Herer