Sky Arts Awards Celebrate Winners in London at Roundhouse

The Sky Arts Awards took place at the Roundhouse in London, celebrating the best of British and Irish arts and culture. Hosted by comedian Joe Lycett, the inaugural event recognized outstanding achievements across various artistic disciplines. Notable winners included indie rock band The Last Dinner Party for popular music, Fern Brady for comedy, and the television show Mr Bates Vs The Post Office. The film award went to How to Have Sex, while Boy Blue was honored for dance. The awards also featured a Lifetime Achievement Award presented to Melvyn Bragg, acknowledging his six-decade career in broadcasting and literature. Each winner received a unique statuette designed by artist Jim Moir, which are bronze sculptures weighing four kilograms. The event was marked by live performances from various artists, including The Darkness and a special collaboration between AC/DC's Brian Johnson and guitarist Slash. Phil Edgar-Jones, director of Sky Arts, emphasized the importance of arts and culture in enriching lives and fostering joy. The awards aimed to highlight the significance of creative expression and the diverse talents within the arts community. Guests included prominent figures such as Andrew Lloyd Webber and Lenny Henry, showcasing the event's high profile. Overall, the Sky Arts Awards served as a platform to honor and celebrate the contributions of artists across multiple genres, reinforcing the belief that arts and culture play a vital role in society.