POZ Managing Editor Jennifer Morton (center) celebrating with friends (photo by Michael Wilson)

POZ Managing Editor Jennifer Morton (center) celebrating with friendsMichael Wilson


The 2015 VAVA VOOM was held Monday, May 18, at the beautiful Prince George Ballroom. This year Visual AIDS recognized and celebrated the achievements of artists Julie Ault, Jim Hodges and Luna Luis Ortiz--and their contributions in strengthening the cultural history of art, AIDS and activism. The evening was hosted by the hilarious Mike Albo and featured a moving performance by Mx Justin Vivian Bond. In addition to our three honorees, we also recognized Pavel Zoubok, VAVA co-founder, on the the 10th anniversary of the Visual AIDS Vanguard Awards. I wonderful time was had by all!

We are grateful to our sponsors MAC Viva Glam, Photomatonchic and Blue Medium, and to our wonderful co-chairs, benefit committee, guests and volunteers. We are also grateful to Stephanie Roach, director of the FLAG Art Foundation, for curating the evening’s silent auction, and to all the amazing artists who contributed work.

More about the Visual AIDS Vanguard Awards and the honorees here. Many more photos of the event here.