“It’s about time” stated Audrey Roberts who’s vision for the ARTV Awards finally was realized Friday October 28^th and Saturday October 29^th at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. This 1^st ARTV Awards show were hosted by Cheech Marin. The event was a 1^st class affair from start to finish! From the quality of art and artists, to the delectable dinner served, to the exquisite statuettes themselves. The Hi-Tech presentation of the awards made for a wonderful evening to be had by all. The placement of the two giant TV screens mounted at each end of the stage afforded everyone the ability to  appreciate the excitement on stage at all times.

The electricity in the air brought on by the nominees in anticipation of being chosen in their specific category was much like the Emmy or Oscar awards. The excitement and anticipation was as evident at our table as it was across the room. We were fortunate enough to sit with Russian born Misha Lenn, of Massachusetts, who turned out to be the winner in the watercolor category. All the winners were extremely excited as was Misha when his name was announced. He jumped out of his seat as if sitting on a spring, gave me (the publisher) a big hug and kiss and floated to the stage as if on a cloud to accept his award. 

As Art lovers, we enjoyed viewing the incredible artwork (which seemed museum quality) and found it particularly interesting to be able to talk with the artists themselves to discuss their vision, application, inspiration, and more.

Audrey Roberts, of the 1^st International Art Advisory Service, is also founder and CEO of the ARTV Awards, which she started in Nevada in 1992. Audrey is also a part of the Connoisseur’s Collection Consultants of California founded in 1983. Ms. Roberts also created a TV series that spotlighted the visual arts and it's artists. In 1999, she organized and presented a special event in Las Vegas to recognize the art of Anthony Quinn. Along with many of his works, the Academy Award winning artist was on hand to meet many of the 20,000 art collectors and fans in attendance.

At the premiere ARTV Awards Show, Anthony Quinn was posthumously awarded the “Lifetime Achievement Award” for his 70 years of outstanding contributions to arts, (very much deserved,) which was accepted by his wife Katherine their daughter Antonia and their son is Ryan.  

All of those in attendance, and those who will view the Award show on TV should thank Ms. Roberts, ARTV creative director Maria Sanchez and all the many people that made it a night to remember. And... a special thanks to all the gifted and talented artists who received the recognition that they so richly deserve.

Brava Audrey! You really are a remarkable lady!

and the Winners were....