University ceramics class makes bowls to help feed hungry

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. -- Ron Kovatch has found a project for his advanced ceramics class that allows them to practice their art and help people in need.

The University of Illinois professor committed his class to making 50 chili bowls for an event next month to raise money to feed the hungry.

Organizers of the Empty Bowls supper Jan. 18 at the McLean County Arts Center in Bloomington hope 200 guests donate $15 each to fight hunger in exchange for a chili supper.

The chili will be served in handmade bowls created and donated by art students, and guests will keep their bowls as a reminder that there is always somebody whose bowl is empty.

"Our objective in this is to raise as much money as possible for organizations that fight hunger in McLean County," said Alison Hatcher, head curator at the McLean County Arts Center.

Some of the 13 students in Kovatch's advanced ceramics class use potter's wheels and he figured it would be a good to have an assignment to make items with a specific use.

The bowls had to function as chili bowls, be durable, be safe in a dishwasher, oven or microwave, and be smooth so spoons could move across them without catching on rough spots.