Dr. Stew Zuckerbrod is a great example of how it’s never too late to explore a new passion. At 70 years old, this ophthalmologist and UTMB Galveston teacher found a love for pottery after a trip to the Ringling Brothers Museum in Florida, where he was captivated by their Asian art collection.
“Seeing that art made me curious,” Zuckerbrod recalls. Once back in Houston, he began creating pottery at Third Coast Clay, where he connected with a welcoming community of artists.
Last October, he made special ceramic bowls for his 70th birthday, each one for the 90 guests. Now, he’s channeling his artistic skills to help those in need. On May 16, he’ll donate 12 to 24 bowls to the Houston Food Bank’s Empty Bowls fundraiser at Silver Street Studios. These bowls will be sold for $25 each, with all proceeds going to the food bank.
This event is impactful; since it started 20 years ago, it has raised $1.2 million, providing over 3.6 million meals. Following the fundraiser, his works will be featured in an exhibition at Archway Gallery through May 30.
Zuckerbrod’s artistic journey started long before pottery. After graduating from Baylor College of Medicine in the 1980s, he volunteered in Nigeria and went on a safari in eastern Africa, where he developed a love for photography. Over the years, he also explored glassblowing and weaving.
His sense of identity deepened after moving to Houston and becoming a father. “In New York, being Jewish felt normal,” he says. “In Houston, I realized how small the community was, but everyone was warm and welcoming.”
His journey into synagogue life began when he sought guidance from Rabbi Roy Walter at Congregation Emanu El before welcoming his twins through surrogacy. Zuckerbrod remains a dedicated member, with his partner Ali, who is converting to Judaism.
He continues to support the Houston Food Bank and plans to volunteer at Emanu El’s Mitzvah Day later this year. As he puts it, “The cost of living is rising, and many are struggling with food anxiety. That makes the food bank even more crucial.”
Zuckerbrod’s story shows the power of art, community, and giving back—proving that it’s never too late to make a difference.
For more information about the Empty Bowls fundraiser, visit the Houston Food Bank’s official website.
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Ceramic artist honored to be part of food bank benefit
