PORT TOWNSEND — An exercise in participatory fundraising takes place this weekend, as people are invited to decorate ceramic bowls that will be sold to subsidize the Port Townsend Food Bank.
“Bowls symbolize food,” said organizer Michael Barley.
“So this is a good way for the community to support the food bank.”
The bowl decoration will take place from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday at April Fool and Penny Too, 725 Water St.
Hot soup and cider will be served from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., all donated by the Boiler Room, El Serape, The Courtyard Cafe, Mystery Bay Catering, The Cup and Pan D’Amore.
The bowls are thrown by five potters, who brought the blanks for painting.
The artists are encouraged to put their name and age on the bottom, and each bowl sells for $10.
This is the fifth annual benefit but the first in this location.
Barley said that selling bowls has been a successful venture in the past. The program has raised about $4,000 each year since its inception.
The event coincides with the February gallery walk, which occurs the first Saturday of each month.
Local glassworker Michelle Stay is an essential part of the event, Barley said.
After the bowls are decorated, Barley will take them back to his studio to permanently adhere the new decorations, and the bowls will be sold during the March 5 gallery walk.
“This is a great community event and good social outreach,” said Penny Varteresian, who is hosting the bowl painting in her store.
“There is a lot of community participation in a good cause, since the food bank always needs extra help in the winter months.”
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Jefferson County Reporter Charlie Bermant can be reached at 360-385-2335 or charlie.bermant@peninsuladailynews.com.
