Filling Bowls, Feeding Souls: WHAM Art Center’s 12th Annual ‘Bowls of Hope’
By Ryan Williams
A West Valley Tradition Rooted in Art and Altruism
For twelve years, the Saturday after Thanksgiving in Surprise has meant more than Black Friday leftovers—it signals the return of WHAM Art Center’s “Bowls of Hope,” a charity art festival that transforms clay into compassion. On November 29, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the center at 16560 N. Dysart Rd. will open its doors to hundreds of visitors, dozens of artists, and over 500 handcrafted bowls, each one a small masterpiece designed to fight hunger across the West Valley. What began as a modest pottery sale has grown into a cornerstone community event, blending creativity, craftsmanship, and heartfelt giving in a way that only the Valley can.
The Magic Behind Every Bowl
This year’s collection—more than 500 unique vessels—represents months of collaboration. WHAM’s resident artists worked side by side with dedicated volunteers from the Sun City and Sun City West Clay Clubs, spending countless hours at the wheel, glazing, and firing. No two bowls are alike. Some feature swirling desert-inspired glazes in terracotta and turquoise; others boast delicate etched patterns or bold, modern shapes. Each piece is food-safe, microwave-friendly, and built to last—meant not just for soup, but for years of family meals, holiday gatherings, and quiet moments of gratitude.“Every bowl carries a story,” says WHAM Executive Director Connie Whitlock. “It’s thrown with intention, glazed with care, and sold with purpose. When someone chooses a bowl, they’re not just buying art—they’re feeding a neighbor, sheltering a child, and investing in hope.”
More Than Bowls: A Full-Day Art Festival
While the bowls are the heart of the event, “Bowls of Hope” is a vibrant celebration of West Valley creativity. Artist booth spaces are available for just $25, inviting painters, jewelers, sculptors, and makers to showcase alongside the pottery. Past festivals have featured hand-poured candles, woven textiles, metalwork, and even live glassblowing demonstrations. To reserve a booth, contact Diane Freeman at diane.freeman@wham-art.org.The grounds come alive with music, food trucks offering warm chili and cornbread (perfect for bowl-testing), and interactive art stations where kids can try their hand at clay. It’s a family-friendly affair where generations connect—grandparents who remember the first Bowls of Hope now bring grandchildren to pick out their own special piece.
Seven Charities, One Mission
Every dollar raised goes directly to seven essential West Valley nonprofits:
- St. Mary’s Food Bank – Arizona’s largest food bank, serving thousands weekly
- Eve’s Place Community Services – Shelter and support for domestic violence survivors
- Homeless Youth Connection – Helping unaccompanied teens finish high school
- StreetLight USA – Safe haven for trafficked and at-risk girls
- All Faith Community Services – Emergency food and utility assistance
- Valley View Community Food Bank – Serving Surprise, Sun City, and beyond
- Southwest Family Advocacy Center – Support for child abuse victims and families
Since 2013, “Bowls of Hope” has donated over $42,000—enough to provide thousands of meals, nights of shelter, and critical services. In a state where one in five residents faces food insecurity, these funds are more than statistics; they’re lifelines.
Hunger in Arizona: The Reality Behind the Art
Despite Arizona’s growth and sunshine, hunger remains a persistent shadow. According to Feeding America, over 900,000 Arizonans—including 300,000 children—struggle with food insecurity. In the West Valley, rapid population growth has outpaced some safety nets, leaving working families, seniors on fixed incomes, and veterans especially vulnerable. “Bowls of Hope” doesn’t just raise money—it raises awareness. Each bowl sold is a conversation starter: Who will this help? How far does a dollar go? Whitlock notes, “Art has the power to humanize statistics. When you hold a bowl made by a neighbor, for a neighbor, the need feels real—and so does the solution.”
A Legacy of Giving, A Future of Hope
WHAM Art Center itself is a nonprofit success story. As a 501(c)(3), it serves thousands annually through classes, exhibits, and outreach, making art accessible regardless of age, income, or ability. “Bowls of Hope” embodies that mission: inclusive, collaborative, and impactful. This year, the event falls on Small Business Saturday—a perfect alignment. While big-box stores push doorbusters, WHAM reminds us that the most meaningful purchases support local artists, feed local families, and strengthen local bonds.
Plan Your Visit: What to Know Before You Go
- Date & Time: Saturday, November 29, 2025 | 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
- Location: WHAM Art Center, 16560 N. Dysart Rd., Surprise, AZ
- Bowls: $15–$50 (cash, card, and contactless payments accepted)
- Parking: Free on-site and street parking
- Tips: Arrive early for the best selection; bring a reusable bag for multiple purchases
Can’t make it? Bowls are available for pre-order via WHAM’s website, with pickup or local delivery options.
About WHAM Art Association
Founded to bring multidisciplinary arts to all corners of the West Valley, WHAM Art Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes creativity builds community. Through galleries, workshops, youth programs, and events like “Bowls of Hope,” WHAM fosters artistic growth, economic vitality, and social good. Its reach extends from Sun City seniors discovering watercolor to Surprise teens learning digital design—proving art isn’t a luxury, but a lifeline.
One Bowl, Many Meals
As the holiday season approaches, “Bowls of Hope” offers a different kind of gift-giving: one that fills both the stomach and the soul. This November 29, come for the art, stay for the impact. Because in the West Valley, hope isn’t just served—it’s handcrafted.
