Bionic Buzz® covered the red carpet of the 3rd Annual LABA Icon Awards at the Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills, CA. The event brought a plethora of luminaries and incredible talents together, highlighting their excellence and contributions in the world. The evening began with the essence of Mr. Philippe Milgrom sabering champagne, joined by Dr. Jeanne Ruderman. Emcee and Philanthropist Princess Karen Cantrell along with Emcee and LABA founder, TV Host Joey Zhou, welcomed the distinguished guests, nominees, and presenters.

3rd Annual LABA Icon Award Winners and Presenters:
  • American Visual Artist Alexandra Grant was honored by Paul N. J. Ottosson, a three-time Oscar winner, sound mixer, and sound designer.
  • Artist and Photographer Michael Warren was presented his award by his son Cash Warren, entrepreneur, film producer, and co-founder of Pair of Thieves apparel.
  • Acclaimed Singer Chris Mann was honored by Zehra Sun, the CEO and founder of MDSUN.
  • Designer and Artist Gordon Sun was presented his award by Robert Minkoff, filmmaker/director.
  • Art Curator Cynzia Simonelli Penna was presented her award by Douglas Ivanovich, awarding winning producer/chairman World Peace One.
  • Master Jiumei LAMA received her accolade from Harrison Engle, award-winning director and filmmaker.
  • Chef Tony (Xiaojun) Hu, a Celebrity Chef and Distinguished Restaurateur was presented his award by Todd Williamson, a prominent contemporary artist.
  • Notable Author Jason June was presented his award by Lisa Smith, international lawyer, philanthropist, and 2022 LABA Icon Award winner. (Jason June was unable to attend; the award was accepted by Nicolas Marlin on his behalf.)
  • Distinguished Senator Ben Allen was presented his award by Philippe Milgrom, a wine and champagne expert. (Senator Allen was unable to attend; the award was accepted by Artist Todd Williamson on his behalf.)
  • Impactful Economist Professor Lingyun Xiang was presented his award by William Jacques, founding partner Martingale Asset Management.
  • Art Gallerist Georges Bergès was presented his award by Joe Kiani, CEO of Masimo (Medical Technology Company).
  • Spanish Artist Rosana Largo Rodriguez was honored with her award by Stephanie Spruill, singer and recording artist
  • LABA Blue-chip Artist Jiannan Huang was presented his award by Lisa Schulte, the Artist known as “The Neon Queen”. (Jiannan Huang was unable to attend, the award was accepted by Harrison Engle on his behalf.)
Special Guests and Melodious Renditions

A dazzling array of special guests graced the event, with renowned names such as Actress and Entrepreneur Jessica Alba, Actress and RHOBH Crystal Kung Minkoff, Singer Stephanie Spruill, Paul Ottosson, Musician Karen Han, and more!

LABA Icon Award Winner Singer Chris Mann known for “The Voice” and his role as Phantom in the North American tour of Phantom of the Opera regaled the audience with his melodious renditions, including “The Music of the Night” and a captivating version of “Hallelujah,” reflecting his versatile musical journey.

Stand for Artists: A Noble Cause

The awards collaborated with The Beverly Arts Foundation to launch “Stand for Artists,” a charity endeavor enabling LABA artists to donate their artwork. The proceeds will benefit the charitable program for Disabled Artists, supporting the creative endeavors of ten disabled artists selected globally.

Artistic Collaborations and Unveilings

Artist Lisa Schulte unveiled a collaborative artwork with LABA Blue-chip Artist Jiannan Huang called, “Silver River Flowing through Golden Valley”. Schulte, known as “The Neon Queen,” shared insights into her cross-border collaborative journey with National Contemporary and Modern Artist Jiannan Huang, symbolizing the harmonious blending of artistic spirits and visions.

An Amazing Evening

The 3rd Annual LABA Icon Awards, held at the prestigious Four Seasons in Beverly Hills, California, on September 22, 2023, was a celebration of artistic brilliance, diversity, philanthropic endeavors, and collaborative spirit, leaving an indelible mark on the world of arts and culture. The event highlighted the importance of artistic expression and collaboration in shaping a more inclusive and vibrant world.

Sponsors

MDSUN, Meta News, US Ningbo General Chamber of Commerce, HeGuang Zen Retreat Center, Lao Sze Chuan USA Group, Wenkang Xue International Interior Design Studio, Keppi Fitness, M3&JMK Modeling Academy, Aris A Shennel Trading Group, and US Zhejiang Chamber of Commerce.

About The Los Angeles Beverly Arts (LABA)

The Beverly Arts is a groundbreaking initiative, illuminating the artistic landscape of Beverly Hills and surrounding areas, including an innovative art festival in 2021-2022. Founded by the visionary Joey Zhou, and a team of distinguished partners specializing in art, fashion, education, entertainment, and international business, The Beverly Arts is sculpting a platform where art, fashion, business, charities, and the community converge, fostering unique and fruitful collaborations and enriching relationships.  https://www.thebeverlyarts.com/

Our host Dante Greco interviewed Joey Zhou, Todd Williamson, Rosana Largo Rodriguez, Lisa Schulte, Douglas Ivanovich, Tony (Xiaojun) Hu, Chris Mann, Zehra Sun, Cynzia Simonelli Penna, Michael Warren and Julie Shen. Produced by Jackie Lewis and edited by Steve Sievers of Bionic Buzz.

Our interview with artist Alexandra Grant on the red carpet.

Our interview with philanthropist Princess Karen Cantrell.

Joey Zhou, Alexandra Grant, Paul Ottosson, Princess Karen Cantrell. Photo by Sheri Determan

Joey Zhou, Todd Williamson, Tony (Xiaojun) Hu, Princess Karen Cantrell. Photo by Sheri Determan

Jessica Alba. Photo by Sheri Determan