Hundreds of handcrafted bowls created by Western New York students, teachers, and local artists will be displayed and sold at the seventh annual Empty Bowls fundraising event from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Sunday, May 23, at the Burchfield Penney Art Center at Buffalo State College.

Guests select an artistic creation that catches their eye and share in a simple meal, included in the price of the bowl, usually less than $10. Keepsake bowls serve as a reminder of all the empty bowls around the world. As in years past, all proceeds benefit the Food Bank of Western New York and Friends of Night People.

“Empty Bowls has grown so much since its beginning, and I am very grateful for the Art Education students who have dedicated so much time and effort into making it such a success,” said John Siskar, associate professor of art education, who directs the event. “This year we have reached over 2,000 bowls designed by the talented and gifted artists all over Western New York, and would like to thank them for being a part of this wonderful fundraiser to purchase food to feed the hungry in our community.”

Six years ago, the Art Education and Design departments at Buffalo State adopted the program. Art education students, under the direction of Siskar, created Empty Bowls lesson plans and distributed them to teachers throughout Western New York.

This year, more than 50 area schools, 25 local artists, and hundreds of local schoolchildren are enthusiastically participating in the program. Oliver’s Restaurant and Pepsi are among the contributing local restaurants and organizations.

The Buffalo Niagara Association of Realtors is the title sponsor for this year’s event. For more information, call the Art Education Department at 878-3787.