Every year, artists Michael and Claudia Zeber-Martell, lead an initiative, called the Empty Bowl Project, to raise awareness about the needs of those in hunger.

During an afternoon, like-minded community members gather to show their support and enjoy a simple meal together at the Akron Art Museum. Bowls that are handcrafted by Zeber-Martell Studio are individually selected by the patrons and then used to enjoy the selection of soups, breads, and desserts, all donated by local restaurants.

Proceeds from ticket sales and individual donations go to benefit the social-service organization, The Good Samaritan Hunger Center.

Although seating is limited and tickets to the event sell out quickly, additional support toward the cause is most welcome. Click here to learn more about the non-profit organization and to show your support.

The Empty Bowl Project demonstrates that “the arts” have a sense of responsibility to the broader community. The project also demonstrates how artists themselves can use their talents to better the community during a time of great need and connect craft with community and community to craft.

The 2017, March 19th event at the Akron Art Museum is sold out.

Over 200 bowls will be created by Zeber-Martell Studio and the restaurants providing signature soups and services are: Bricco, Diamond Deli, Fleming’s, Innovative Elegance and Design, Moe’s, Mustard Seed Market & Cafe, One Eleven Bistro, DelCelio’s Italian Restaurant, A Taste of Elegance, Breads of Fairlawn and Summit Croissants.

These local restaurants serve a simple meal of soup and bread. Guests choose a bowl to use that day and keep it as a reminder of all the Empty Bowls in the community. In exchange for the meal and the bowl, the guests offer a suggested donation and keep the bowl.