By Amira Van Leeuwen
DRIPPING SPRINGS — Dripping Springs Helping Hands partnered with the city of Dripping Springs to host its 25th annual Empty Bowls Project on Sunday at Dripping Springs Ranch Park, in person, for the first time in two years.
Bowls from the Art Garage Austin.
“It was so wonderful to see friends and also new guests that came last year and had never seen it set up with live music. People were lingering a lot longer in the event room, normally, they might stay for an hour, and they were staying for an hour and a half or two hours,” co-chair June Baumoel said. “I saw people that I haven’t seen in three years, almost. It’s so much nicer so that you can see everybody in action.”
Approximately 1,000 people attended the event and about 12,000 bowls were sold.
Those who attended the event could browse a beautiful selection of handmade bowls of their choosing and purchase it for a $25 donation. After purchasing their bowl, volunteers washed it, and patrons could fill it with a gourmet soup of their choice, including tortilla and broccoli cheese. Anyone who wanted another bowl of soup could do so by purchasing a $5 ticket.
While individuals were invited to sit down and enjoy their soup with their friends and family, they were listening to musicians like Jerry Rivers, Bob Appel, Madison Rodges and Beth Asmussen. The tables were also decorated with a variety of real wildflower centerpieces, adding a touch of authenticity to the event.
Girl Scout Franki Quevedo, 12, wraps bowls in newspaper for eventgoers to take home.
While listening to live music and eating soup, Girl Scouts from Troop 541 walked around offering bread and various kinds of cookies.
Ceramists who donated their ceramics were Hodgson Studio, Jus’ Cuz Pottery, The Art Garage Austin, Bridget Hauser, Brave Ceramics by Tina Williams, Bill Smith and many more.
Wimberley resident Ava Everett started going to Empty Bowls with her friends in Santa Barbara. Five years ago, Everett moved to Texas and has continued attending.
Karen Bartell, a Driftwood resident, and Empty Bowls Project volunteer, thought it was exciting she was able to help, let alone attend.
“I heard about it years ago and was finally able to come,” Bartell said.
Empty Bowls Project sponsors included Flying Fish Swim Academy, Wilson AC and Appliance, the Dripping Springs Lions Club, Barb Mansur and H-E-B.
