Store
2015's VAVA VOOM, held Monday, May 18 at the beautiful Prince George Ballroom, recognized and celebrated the achievements of artists Julie Ault, Jim Hodges, Luna Luis Ortiz - and their contributions in strengthening the cultural history of art, AIDS and activism. Jim Hodges and Julie Ault gave both humble yet hilarious speeches, while Ortiz dedicated his award "In the name of all the artists know and unknown that have contributed to the AIDS movement and LGBT experience who are no longer with us, but live in our hearts."
In addition to our three honorees, we were also proud to recognize Pavel Zoubok, VAVA co-founder, on the the tenth anniversary of the Visual AIDS Vanguard Awards. The evening was hosted by the hilarious Mike Albo and featured a moving performance by Mx Justin Vivian Bond, who sang a beautiful cover of Kate Bush's "Nocturn/Aerial" and "She Lays it on the Line" by George Strait. DJ Aaron Tilford keep the music going. A wonderful time was had by all!
Thank you to our wonderful Co-Chairs, Benefit Committee, guests, and volunteers who made this event possible. We are grateful to our sponsors MAC Viva Glam, Blue Medium, and Photomatonchic. Thank you to our auction partner Paddle8, and Stephanie Roach, Director of The FLAG Art Foundation, for curating the evening's Art Auction, and to all the amazing artists who donated work. We also want to acknowledge the support of the Imperial Court of New York for giving their time and flair, and for event photography and video by Michael Wilson and A. Mert Erdem (photos above).
For more:
View and download pictures by Photomatonchic here and watch video below.
Listen to VAVA VOOM remix by DJ Aaron Tilford
Watch a recap of the event on POZ.com
Read more about the honorees Julie Ault, Jim Hodges and Luna Luis Ortiz
