The inaugural BlackStar Luminary Gala will highlight the groundbreaking artists and their impact on the world of film and culture.
The BlackStar Luminary Gala is set to honor distinguished individuals and groups who’ve made monumental contributions to art, film, and visual culture. This year’s prestigious gala, scheduled for December 4, 2023, at the W Philadelphia Hotel, promises to be an event filled with inspiration and recognition.
Shannon Maldonado, the creative genius behind YOWIE, is among the honorees. With over a decade in the fashion industry, Maldonado shifted gears, introducing YOWIE – a vibrant mix of design, creativity, and community. From being touted as “The Coolest Shop in Philadelphia” by Bon Appétit to co-founding an expansive boutique hotel, her journey is nothing short of awe-inspiring.
Another name that resonates deeply within the Pan African Cinema community is June Givanni. As the curator and director of the June Givanni Pan African Cinema Archive, her commitment to preserving and promoting black culture across continents stands unparalleled. Her contributions have been recognized globally, notably with The British Independent Film Awards’ Special Jury Prize.
Adding to this illustrious list is COUSIN, an innovative collective founded in 2018 dedicated to supporting Indigenous artists. Under the guidance of pioneers like Sky Hopinka and Adam Piron, COUSIN is changing the traditional narratives of the moving image, garnering attention from platforms like the Berlin International Film Festival and the Whitney Biennial.
“The Luminary Gala stands as a testament to the power of ingenuity, intelligence, and innovation,” said Maori Karmael Holmes, Founder and Chief Executive and Artistic Officer of BlackStar Projects. This sentiment perfectly encapsulates the essence of the BlackStar Luminary Gala, which celebrates achievements and paves the way for future generations.
Past Luminary Award recipients have been luminaries in their own right, with names like Ava DuVernay and Julie Dash adorning the list. And as we await the BlackStar Luminary Gala, the anticipation builds for new episodes of “Many Lumens” and the next issue of “Seen,” BlackStar’s visual culture journal.
As the Gala approaches, it reminds us of the endless possibilities when passion meets purpose. For a deeper understanding of BlackStar’s mission and vision, visit their official website. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities for the BlackStar Luminary Gala are now available.
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