Mixing paint and wine (figuratively, at least, but not literally) has become a popular leisure activity lately. But the Eau Claire Regional Arts Council is giving the pastime a virtuous vibe by adding a charitable element. ECRAC and Feed My People Food Bank are sponsoring a bowl-painting party from 6-8:30pm on Monday, July 17. All you need to bring is some a little cash and your creativity – bowls and art supplies are provided. So is the wine, which will be available at a cash bar. No artistic experience is necessary, and volunteer artist Ruth Lundblad will be there to offer bowl-painting pointers. Why bowls? They’ll be used next March at Feed My People’s annual Empty Bowls fundraiser at Florian Gardens, which draws thousands of diners for a meal of soup served in – you guessed it! – a lovingly painted bowl. There’s a $5 suggested donation for the Bowl Painting Party, and you won’t be able to keep the bowls you paint (although you will see them in use at Empty Bowls). Space at the party is limited, so RSVP by July 12 to Becca Baader at Rebecca@fmpfoodbank.org.