WKU ceramic students give back through annual empty bowls fundraiser

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — Western Kentucky University ceramics students are putting their creativity to work for a good cause as they prepare for next year’s Empty Bowls of Bowling Green fundraiser.

The annual fundraiser, entering its 14th year, raises money to support local soup kitchens and food banks while bringing artists and community members together to fight food insecurity.

Students began crafting handmade ceramic bowls at the start of the school year. During the fundraiser, local restaurants will fill the donated bowls with food, helping raise money for hunger relief efforts throughout the community.

WKU ceramics instructor Greg Strange said the event gives students an opportunity to see how their artwork can make a difference beyond the classroom.

“Basically, it is an opportunity for ceramic artists to make pottery, functional bowls,” Strange said. “Then they’re donated to the group, which uses the bowls as a fundraiser.”

Strange said the project also demonstrates how artists can play an active role in supporting their communities.

“It’s giving back to the community and showing that we, as artists, can be a viable part of our community and help,” he said.

Beyond supporting local hunger relief efforts, the project also provides students with valuable hands-on experience and opportunities to develop their skills.

WKU ceramics student Silas Myers said making bowls is a useful way for beginners to practice pottery techniques while learning about the different ways their work can benefit others.

“It’s a really easy way to learn how to throw, and it also helps people think more in the wider spectrum of what they can do with ceramics,” Myers said. “They can donate, they can sell, and it can help make connections further for students.”

As preparations continue for next year’s fundraiser, WKU is also inviting community members to explore ceramics through classes open to the public.

Classes are offered Tuesdays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.