Georgia Southwestern State University Hosts 12th Annual Empty Bowls Event

The 12th annual Empty Bowls event organized by the Department of Visual Arts at Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) is set to take place on November 8, 2023, from 09:00 to 13:00. This initiative aims to combat local hunger by selling handcrafted ceramic bowls and soup, with proceeds benefiting families in need through the Harvest of Hope organization.

The event will be held at the Harvest of Hope Food Pantry located at 606 McGarrah St., Americus, GA 31709. This year, attendees can purchase one of the 200 bowls available for $25 each. Each bowl reflects the time and skill of its creator, undergoing a meticulous process that includes forming, drying, bisque firing, glazing, and a final firing at temperatures reaching 2,350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Founded in 2013 by Sonny and Ginger Pinckard, Harvest of Hope now operates under the direction of Chris and Rhonda Slocumb. Chris Slocumb, an associate professor in the GSW School of Nursing, noted that Harvest of Hope distributes over 600 boxes of food each month to local households, significantly addressing food insecurity in the region. He emphasized the critical role this service plays in the wellbeing of the community.

Senior ceramics major Lexi Glass from Albany, Georgia, expressed her enthusiasm for participating in Empty Bowls. “Being a part of Empty Bowls the last three years has been a wonderful experience in so many ways,” she stated. “It not only allows me to further develop my craftsmanship in ceramics but also gives me the opportunity to give back and learn about the great things the community does to care for one another while attending GSW.”

Local restaurants, including Pat’s Place, Little Brothers Bistro and Cafe, and Sweet Georgia Bakery, are collaborating with the event. Participants who purchase a ceramic bowl will receive a soup voucher (while supplies last) redeemable at one of these establishments.

The proceeds from Empty Bowls will primarily support Harvest of Hope, while a portion will aid GSW visual art students. The ceramic art for sale includes works by GSW students such as Noah Miller, Dulce Sarmiento, Marion Mims, Ben Dracup, Leah Ross, Shila Tucker, Anna Jones, Jayda Hughes, and Ethan Sellers, along with contributions from Professor Emeritus Ralph Harvey and Professor Keaton Wynn.

This year’s Empty Bowls event promises to be a meaningful occasion, combining art, community spirit, and the fight against hunger in Americus.