Film, theater, fashion, music: What have these fields got that the art world doesn't? Up until now, an awards ceremony. "I thought it was missing, so here it is," explained artist and event organizer Rob Pruitt at last night's First Annual Art Awards at the Guggenheim Museum.

In an effort to keep the tone irreverent, Pruitt tapped art-world satirists the Delusional Downtown Divas to host; there was a pair of interludes from the Fiery Furnaces; and the proceedings were anchored by the authoritative (and pre-recorded) commentary of Glenn O'Brien. "Glenn taught me how to shop for a suit, like, 15 years ago, and he just seemed perfect as the voice of God," Pruitt said. Well, O'Brien has been known to rock a white beard from time to time.

This being the ceremony's maiden voyage, there were a few uncertainties. Oscars vet Julianne Moore wondered about acceptance speeches. "The big unknown: whether the artists are going to be as long-winded as actors," she said. Moore was seated with Francisco Costa and Kylie Minogue, who'd given up her precious Thursday-night TV for a night out with artists and the team from co-sponsors Calvin Klein Collection. "I could have stayed home and watched 30 Rock or my new obsession, Glee," the pop star pointed out. "But the art world is intriguing. I'll probably trip over someone and have no idea how important they are."

In the end, she kept her footing, on what was a good night for girl power. Legendary performance artist Joan Jonas accepted a Lifetime Achievement Award, Connie Butler won over a trio of male curators, and Mary Heilmann beat out Urs Fischer, Dan Graham, and Louise Bourgeois for Artist of the Year. The trophy they all took home: a lightbulb plugged into a Champagne bottle. Quipped critic Jerry Saltz: "We sing the art world electric!"

— Darrell Hartman