Art students of Midland College participated in an annual fundraiser for the West Texas Food Bank, known as Empty Bowls.
The event took place on Jan. 30, marking its 21st year. The fundraising event featured hand-crafted ceramic bowls to support the food bank, selling for $15 each. The fundraiser took place at the Food Bank’s Innovative Gardens, located at 1601 Westcliff Dr. All proceeds went toward directly supporting the West Texas Food Bank.
“I think this event is so important because it is a real-world way that artists can give back to the community.” He continued, adding “It helps people in the community who are really in need. Every one dollar raised provides four meals. The real spirit of the event is communal and community-based," Associate Professor of Art at Midland College Michael Richardson said.
Midland College has participated in Empty Bowls for eight years, and is representative of a global grassroots movement by artists to support the hungry and food-insecure within their own communities. Empty Bowls first began in 1991 by a high school art teacher who sought to help those in the community. The fundraiser this year takes on a new weight, with many homes and families being out of work due to the coronavirus pandemic.
“During the Empty Bowls event, people are able to see firsthand the art pieces and know that their purchase will go toward feeding those in need in our community. I am proud to say that Midland College has been a very active participant in the Empty Bowls project for many years," Jesse Trejo, an art student from the college, said.
Those who are interested in learning more about Empty Bowls and its mission may contact Craig Stoker at the West Texas Food Bank at (432) 580-6333.