Open Studios set for Empty Bowl Project

September 19, 2013

The Betty Foy Sanders Department of Art at Georgia Southern University is gearing up for its annual Empty Bowl Project, a service project that benefits the Statesboro Food Bank.

Under the direction of ceramics professor Jeff Schmuki, ceramics students work year-round to create unique bowls to be sold with chili for $10 each. All proceeds from the chili sale are donated to the Food Bank, which provides food for families not only in Bulloch County, but surrounding counties as well.

“Hunger is something we don’t necessarily see, but just because we don’t see it doesn’t mean it’s not happening,” Schmuki said. “The bowls are a small reminder that people still go hungry in this country, and this is just something small we can do to help.”

In addition to students who work diligently on this project, the ceramics studio is opened to the public twice. Faculty, staff, students and members of the community, from beginners to those experienced in working with ceramics, are welcome to attend the open studio sessions and create their own bowl.

The open studios are slated for Monday, Sept. 23, and Wednesday, Sept. 25 from 2:30-5 p.m. in the Ceramics and Sculpture Building. Visitors will be able to work with experienced ceramics students to create and decorate bowls for the chili sale, set this year for Oct. 17 at the Rotunda on Georgia Southern’s campus. Last year, the project raised nearly $4,000. For every dollar donated, the Statesboro Food Bank is able to provide the equivalent of seven meals to someone in need.

“It’s not just about making bowls, but beginning a conversation. One bowl equals around 70 meals and there are entire families that need help,” Schmuki said. “We live in one of the poorest counties in Georgia and as citizens, we have the responsibility to help those less fortunate in our area. I’m often asked by students, ‘How can I make a difference?’ The answer is simple: Start where you live, start in your community.”

Georgia Southern University, a Carnegie Doctoral/Research University founded in 1906, offers 125 degree programs serving more than 20,000 students. Through eight colleges, the University offers bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs built on more than a century of academic achievement. Georgia Southern is recognized for its student-centered approach to education. Visit: www.georgiasouthern.edu.