(Melanie Q./Staff)

Spending hours in the ceramics room molding clay and throwing bowls, ceramics students have been preparing for the our annual Empty Bowls Service event. Attendees buy a $20 ticket for a handmade bowl of their choice, unlimited soup, crackers, beverage, and a cookie. They may also purchase a $1 raffle ticket or 6 tickets for $5 to win prizes including artwork and gym passes.

Collaborating with Westerville Habitat Partnership, the proceeds fund a Habitat for Humanity house for a “Walls Build” event each August. With the help of community volunteers, the organization provides homes for low income families, lessening their financial burden with a 20-year, interest-free loan and 300 hours of labor equity. 

This year, Empty Bowls was on Friday December 13, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the Westerville Senior Center. Tables held dozens of bowls, each created with intricate details and sculpted edges. Attendees like myself meticulously scanned each creation, awestruck by each work’s individual beauty, unable to choose a favorite. 

After selecting a bowl, I enjoyed vegan minestrone, chicken noodle, and hearty stuffed pepper soup, along with crackers and hot chocolate. Chatting with my friends, sipping warm soup, and appreciating the products of my ceramics classmates is a great way to relax before midterms. 

Putting in hours during classes, free periods, and even time on PSAT day, the students’ handcrafted bowls reflect the ceramics classes’ hard work. The event commenced in 2016, and it continues to impress, bringing together artwork and community service.