"The Place Where Art and Muskoka Meet" 

Empty Bowls to be Introduced in Bracebridge  

“Empty Bowls,” a community-oriented idea that has spread across North America in recent years, will make its debut in Muskoka at Silver Bridge Gallery on October 3.

As in other cities and towns where it has flourished, the event in Bracebridge is designed to bring together local artists, restaurants and charitable organizations in a fusion of caring, creativity and comfort food. 

An art teacher in Michigan is credited with coming up with the idea of Empty Bowls in 1990 and turning it into a grassroots movement to address the issue of hunger in local initiatives that are often held in October to coincide with the U.N.’s World Food Day.

Gallerist Michelle Hallam’s inspiration for starting the Empty Bowls program in Bracebridge was Perth ceramicist Jackie Seaton, who brought the idea to his hometown, where it is now an anticipated annual event, eight years ago.

“I thought, what a beautiful way to marry the arts and community service,” says Hallam. “The idea became, for me, a challenge to bring together artisans and business people. Together we would raise much-needed funds for the Bracebridge Manna Food Bank.

“Along the way,” she adds, “we could have fun, celebrate the arts, and gently raise awareness that hunger persists in our community. “My hope is that it becomes an annual event.”

Scheduled to coincide with the downtown BIA’s ColourFest celebrations, “Empty Bowls” will be part of the activities taking place on Bracebridge’s main street over the course of a festive, traffic-free Saturday.

Port Sydney potter Antje Lenze has crafted over 300 bowls for the event, each of which will be sold for $20 to benefit the food bank before being filled with fine homemade soup provided by local restaurants, including Riverwalk Muskoka Fine Dining, R & L Bistro, The Old Station Restaurant, Su’Andwiches and Marty’s Cafe. Jan Dickinson, a director on the board of the Manna Food Bank, will be present as the Silver Bridge staff serves up the soup on the sidewalk just outside the gallery.

On the same day, a painting called “Empty Bowls,” donated by Gravenhurst artist Annie Veitch, will be sold to the highest bidder in a silent auction inside the gallery.

For those who are unable to attend the event personally but wish to contribute to the cause, Silver Bridge Gallery will set aside bowls for pickup later. Please call 646-2460 to reserve your bowls.

“Empty Bowls” is an opportunity to enjoy a warm October pick-me-up – in a bowl for the keeping – while supporting a worthy local initiative.

The soup, both vegetable and chicken noodle, will be served from 11am to 3pm.

This award winning gallery represents established and emerging artists from Muskoka and across Canada. The impressive collection and variety of fine art, jewelry, glass, ceramics, sculpture and photography will inspire you. Visit our web site for show and event dates. 

Gift Certificates Available.