Erika Fowler-Decatur and her husband, Michael, returned to Ithaca, New York, from California to raise their son, Cid, near family. An art historian and avid supporter of arts education, Erika intended to open a small gallery in the area. When it appeared as though the community was not large enough to support a traditional art gallery, Erika found a way to combine what she considers to be two of life’s greatest gifts: fine art and fine chocolate.

Art Bars from Erika’s Ithaca Fine Chocolates are made from organic and fair trade certified ingredients. Developing a chocolate bar that met Erika’s high standard for quality was a challenge. She tried making them herself, and though the chocolate tasted great, its appearance wasn’t up to par. She was able to locate a Swiss chocolatier whose product was a match for her vision.

“I didn’t want to support my own cause of the arts at the expense of cocoa farmers and the delicate ecosystem,” Erika explained.

Though the chocolate itself is something to savor, it’s the other special ingredient that makes Art Bars unique: fine art. Each bar contains a collectible card featuring the artwork of one of a diverse group of adult and child artists. The collection is changed annually through an art submission process.

“Art Bars give people an opportunity to slow down and enjoy some exquisite chocolate as well as an inspired moment art contemplation,” said Erika. The mission behind Art Bars is to increase art awareness and support for art education, which is why 10% of Art Bars’ proceeds goes to local and global art education programs.

The intention of including the miniature art reproductions is to increase exposure for the artists featured. People interested in purchasing full-size works can contact Erika, who connects them to the artist. Erika takes no commission. She hopes that through increased exposure, these artists can eventually quit their day jobs and concentrate fully on their art.

In addition to its commitment to supporting art education, Ithaca Fine Chocolates is a socially and environmentally-conscious company. Erika became more attuned to organic products and the health of the environment after the birth of her son six years ago.

“As a parent, it’s extremely important that the food our children consumed isn’t laced with chemicals and that they have a healthy planet to grow up on,” said Erika of her family’s organic/natural lifestyle. The family welcomed daughter Elle to the world ten months ago.

Ithaca Fine Chocolates Art Bars are sold in 46 states and are available for purchase online. The company’s “virtual” store front saves on overhead and waste. “We reuse, reduce and recycle at home and in the business,” said Erika.

Erika hopes to eventually found a granting process to fund art education programs, and expand the Art Bar “call for artists” so that more artists can be featured. Visit Ithaca Fine Chocolates at www.IthacaFineChocolates.com.