Chance to check out Soupie bowls ahead of fundraiser

A collaboration of 21 potters from across the region will see more than 200 handcrafted bowls created for the upcoming ‘Bowls for Soupie’ exhibition at Margaret River HEART from 6pm on Thursday October 3.

The bowls will be displayed at the HEART ahead of the annual ‘Bowls for Soupie’ dining experience on Thursday, October 24.

The fundraiser will provide essential funds for beloved local institution ‘Soupie’ to deliver wholesome low cost meals and assist the Margaret River Community Centre (MRCC) in supporting locals experiencing hardship.

The talented potters have donated not only their bowls, but some have given their time preparing the local clay, as well as firing, labelling and transporting the bowls.

“The opportunity to support the Soupie and to make pots is too good to pass up for most of the potters that I know about,” organising potter, Ian Dowling said.

“I am discovering more potters in the region all the time and most of them are involved and still making pots for the event.

“There is a diverse range of bowls this year from fine porcelain, traditional to rustic and eccentric; all using different firing techniques and colours.”

MRCC’s Leanne Sutton said the HEART showcase promised to be “an exhibition with a difference”, and will be the only time the public can see the potters’ work in its entirety.

“The bowls will be taken from the venue as they are sold, and will be bought to the MRCC later in the month to be filled with an embellished Soupie feast,” Leanne said.

This is the second year that Arts Margaret River has partnered with the MRCC to support the ‘Bowls for Soupie’ event.

The HEART display will allow people the chance to explore and buy their own unique bowl in their own time.

“Margaret River has always had a unique grassroots response to any gaps in programs and supports in the community,” Leanne said.

“So many individuals and businesses have jumped at the chance to give what they can and pay it forward for others in our community.”

Along with the region’s pottery artists, donations for the opening have come from Redgate Print for the display with IGA River Fresh, Vasse Felix, Leeuwin Estate and Woody Nook wines providing delicious consumables.

The ‘Bowls for Soupie’ event on Thursday October 24 has been significantly supported by MRCC volunteers, Margaret River TAFE students and staff, the Sacred World Choir, Tony Howell from Cheftone, Margaret River Bakery, DJ Erik, Jason from Supper Road, Trade Hire and Bunnings.

For more information, visit www.artsmargaretriver.com