On Monday, May 18, Visual AIDS held its 10th annual spring gala, VAVA VOOM, at the Prince George Ballroom in New York City.

At the event, the Visual AIDS Vanguard Awards were presented to Julie Ault, Jim Hodges and Luna Luis Ortiz.

The awards recognize the achievements and contributions of individuals who strengthen the cultural history of art, AIDS and activism.

In addition, Pavel Zoubok, a co-founder of VAVA VOOM, was also recognized for his work with the organization.

The event was hosted by actor and writer Mike Albo and included a performance by Justin Vivian Bond. Stephanie Roach, director of the FLAG Art Foundation, curated the event’s silent auction.

Founded in 1988, Visual AIDS is the only contemporary arts organization fully engaged in presenting the diversity of voices along the HIV spectrum through visual arts programs, exhibitions, public forums and publications.

The proceeds of VAVA VOOM enable Visual AIDS to continue its mission of utilizing art to fight AIDS by provoking dialogue about HIV, supporting HIV-positive artists and preserving a legacy, because AIDS is not over.

Watch a recap of the event: