Viewfinder: Soup Bowl Benefit

Last Saturday's chilly and rainy weather provided the perfect occasion to enjoy steaming bowls of soup and chili at the second annual Soup Bowl Benefit for the Jacquline Casey Hudgens Center for the Arts in Duluth. The March 25 and 26 benefit raised funds for the center's Education Department. 

More than 300 handmade pottery bowls created by students and instructors were available for purchase for $25 to $30 each. Every purchase included a complimentary serving of chili, soup, bread and dessert for lunch Saturday. Atlanta Clay donated clay for the bowls while Johnny Carino’s, Magnolia Café, Publix, Carole Parks Catering, Only Hors d’oeuvres and Proof of the Pudding provided the main course and desserts.

A Preview Party where guests could purchase their favorite bowls in advance while enjoying wine and hors d’oeuvres kicked off the event Friday evening. A silent auction that included ceramics and jewelry began at the preview party and continued through Saturday.

Live music, pottery wheel demonstrations and ceramics studio tours were also part of the event.

The Soup Bowl benefit is just one of a long lineup of interesting, educational and fun activities that fill The Hudgens calendar. The Hudgens, which offers exhibits, classes for adults and children, and special events, serves all of Gwinnett County.