The awards show features 14 categories and a stage show of performance art, readings and striptease. The Leydig Trust, which runs the erotic awards, organizes the show to raise funds for Outsiders, a club for disabled people to make new friends and find sexual partners.
“The Erotic Awards are unique in the world, promoting originality, pride and respect — quite separate from the commercial erotic fairs and porn awards,” show director Dr. Tuppy Owens said. “The Erotic Awards are now recognized as the serious and artistic arm of the sex industry. We are independent, fund raising, and run by a small group of volunteers to create an erotic community where networking and inspiration flourish.”
Owens said the show’s emphasis is on sharing sexual creativity rather than serious competition.
Erotic Awards categories include erotic artist, sex positive campaigner, sex event, fashion, adult film, innovation, lifetime achievement, performance artist, photographer and publication.
“The Erotic Awards is the adult version of the Oscars, promoting recognition for the most innovative, generous and gorgeous performers, writers, filmmakers and activists of the year — and it’s all for charity,” Erotic Review wrote about the event. “Imagine the scene: a roomful of men and women of all ages and sexual persuasions, dressed up in their fabulous best, applauding an array of erotic performers and looking forward to a night of sensual exploration and fun.”
The show’s founder, Owens, got her start as an adult filmmaker and is a well-known sexual activist in Britain. She also throws the Sex Maniacs Ball, a large event that celebrates the many forms of sexuality.
