25 Years of Art Feeding Hope
Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography Courtesy of Foothills Food Bank & Resource Center
For a quarter-century, the Empty Bowls fundraiser in the communities of Carefree and Cave Creek has transformed lumps of clay into vessels of hope, uniting artists and philanthropists in a uniquely Southwestern tapestry of compassion.
As the crisp October air signals the return of seasonal residents, the 25th annual Empty Bowls event on Oct. 12 marks more than just the end of summer. It heralds a reunion of community, creativity and conscience.
“It’s really the premier event for community members to reconnect,” says Robin Ray, a longtime artist and Empty Bowls supporter. “For many, it’s the first time they’ve seen each other in months. People are so excited about picking out the bowls, and that enthusiasm hasn’t changed over the years.”
This enthusiasm isn’t just for show. Last year’s event raised more than $23,000 for Foothills Food Bank & Resource Center, with more than 750 supporters in attendance. These funds are crucial for the food bank, which serves a growing population facing food insecurity in the North Valley.
But the impact goes beyond dollars and cents, explains Leigh Zydonik, executive director of Foothills Food Bank & Resource Center.
“Empty Bowls is more than just an event; it’s a symbol of our community’s compassion and dedication to helping our neighbors in need,” she notes.
The bowls themselves are a testament to the artistic spirit that flows through Cave Creek and Carefree like a life-giving arroyo. From seasoned potters to first-time clay handlers, hundreds of community members participate in workshops guided by Ray and other dedicated volunteers from the Sonoran Arts League.
“The Sonoran Arts League has been instrumental in making Empty Bowls a success,” Ray explains. “They provide the studio space, kilns, materials, and a team of skilled volunteers. It’s truly a collaborative effort that showcases the goodwill of our nonprofit community.”
This year’s bowls, Ray notes, are of particularly high quality.
“The bowls turned out better this year than ever before,” she beams. “I’ve got a crew of about eight to 10 Sonoran Arts League volunteers who help me with the workshops. They’re seasoned now; they know how to help and manage.”
The League’s involvement goes beyond just the workshops. As a 650-plus member art community, it has been the driving force behind Empty Bowls for years, exemplifying the intersection of art and philanthropy that defines this event.
As the event has evolved, so too has its venue. From its early days at El Pedregal to its current home at the Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion, Empty Bowls has always adapted to best serve its community. This flexibility mirrors the food bank’s own growth, with plans for a new $6.5 million campus that will double its capacity to serve those in need.
Cave Creek Mayor Robert Morris sees the event as emblematic of the area’s spirit.
“The North Valley runs on volunteerism, with the food bank serving an area far beyond our borders,” he says. “We honor their humanitarian mission.”
Ray agrees with the mayor’s sentiments.
“We have a very arts-oriented community here,” she notes. “It’s easier to make a difference here than in a big city. An event like this, where you get a lot of people involved, has a much different feel than something similar in Scottsdale.”
This year’s event promises to be a celebration of art, community and compassion. In addition to the traditional bowl sale, there will be an online auction, live music and artisan demonstrations. For a $15 donation, attendees can select a handcrafted bowl, a tangible reminder of their contribution to fighting hunger in the community.
“I think it probably does more good for donations and finding volunteers in our community than anything else,” Ray reflects on the event’s impact. “It’s an effective way to advertise for the food bank and show that the need is very real — and growing.”
In a world that often feels disconnected, Empty Bowls stands as a powerful reminder of the strength found in community. It’s more than just a fundraiser; it’s a celebration of the unique spirit that defines the Carefree and Cave Creek communities — a spirit of creativity and compassion. For here, empty bowls truly do fill hearts.
Empty Bowls
Saturday, Oct. 12 // 9–11 a.m. // Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion // 101 Easy St., Carefree // $15 donation per bowl // 480-488-1145 // foothillsfoodbank.com
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