Hundreds of handcrafted bowls by Western New York students, teachers, and artists will be displayed and sold at the Sixth annual Empty Bowls fundraising event at the Burchfield Penney Art Center at Buffalo State College, May 17, noon to 3:00 p.m.   

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.
“Due to the economic downturn in America, the Food Bank of Western New York has seen an 11 percent increase over last year in need for food from its 360 member agencies in four counties,” said Michael Billoni, director of marketing and public relations for the Food Bank of WNY. “Because of the increased reliance on our services, community support is needed now more than ever. The dollars we receive from the Empty Bowls fundraiser helps us to purchase food to feed the hungry in our community.”

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

This year, more than 35 area schools, 20 local artists and hundreds of local schoolchildren are enthusiastically participating in the program. Oliver’s Restaurant, Pepsi, and the Emerson School of Hospitality are among the many local restaurants and organizations contributing to Empty Bowls. 

The Buffalo Niagara Association of Realtors is the title sponsor for this year's event. For more information, call the Art Education Department at (716) 878-3787.