The Inspiration Gala

amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research, is
dedicated to ending the global AIDS epidemic
through innovative research. Since its founding
in 1985, amfAR has accelerated the pace of
HIV/AIDS research and contributed to numerous
breakthroughs that are extending and saving
lives around the world.
amfAR identifies critical gaps in our knowledge of HIV/AIDS, and supports
promising early-stage studies that often lack the preliminary data required
by more traditional funders.
Through its Research program, amfAR is advancing efforts to prevent HIV infection in
those who are vulnerable and to improve treatment for people living with HIV/AIDS, with
the ultimate goal of eradicating the virus.
amfAR’s TREAT Asia program is a network of clinics, hospitals, and research institutions
working with civil society to ensure the safe and effective delivery of HIV/AIDS treatments
throughout Asia and the Pacific. TREAT Asia has become a model for regional collaboration
on treatment preparedness, education, training, and clinical research.
The MSM Initiative strives to reduce worldwide rates of HIV infection among men who
have sex with men (MSM) in developing countries by providing small grants to grassroots
groups that help expand HIV education and prevention. The MSM Initiative also works to
build understanding and awareness of HIV epidemics among MSM, and advocates for
effective policies and increased funding.
Informed by thorough research and analysis, amfAR is a highly respected advocate of
rational and compassionate AIDS-related public policy. The Foundation’s Public Policy
program is engaged in efforts to increase investments in HIV/AIDS research; ensure a
robust response to the global epidemic; expand access to prevention, treatment, and care;
and protect the civil rights of all people affected by HIV/AIDS.
Photo: Kevin Tachman
Through its Public Information program, amfAR generates awareness of the need for
better treatment and prevention methods, and publishes educational materials on important
AIDS-related research, treatment, prevention, and policy issues. As a respected voice on
HIV/AIDS, amfAR frequently provides media commentary on research developments and
other aspects of the epidemic.
All Photos Kevin Tachman
The Inspiration
Gala
A Celebration of Men’s Style
New York, Paris, Los Angeles, and São Paulo
The Inspiration Gala
amfAR launched the Inspiration Series in 2010 to celebrate men’s style while raising funds
for the Foundation’s lifesaving AIDS research programs. Inaugural events were produced
in New York, Paris, and Los Angeles, and a São Paulo event was added in 2011. To date,
the Inspiration series has raised more than $1.5 million.
The Inspiration Gala features a different design “Inspiration” each year—“BLACK TIE/
BLACK LEATHER” in 2010 and “BLACK TIE/HOT METAL” in 2011. Each year, major
designers donate pieces inspired by the theme that are presented in a fully produced
runway show in New York City. Select pieces from the runway show are auctioned along
with collectible artwork, luxury goods, and one-of-a-kind experiences at each event in
the series.
Kylie Minogue hosted all three 2010 inspiration events, and Jean-Paul Gaultier and
Ricky Martin were honored with amfAR’s Award of Inspiration. 2011 Award of Inspiration
Honorees have included Francisco Costa, James Franco, Michael Kors, Fergie, and
Viktor & Rolf. Performers and presenters in the series include Estelle, Jennifer Hudson,
Cyndi Lauper, Courtney Love, Liza Minnelli, Kelly Rowland, Sharon Stone, and
Dita Von Teese.
Photo: Kevin Tachman
Photo: Kevin Tachman
Photo: Kevin Tachman
Alexis Mabille
Mademoiselle Agnès
Noah Mills
Mia Maestro
Lorenzo Martone
Roísín Murphy
Sean Patterson
Princess Lee Radziwill
Rich Ross
Zoe Saldana
Amanda Setton
Casey Spooner
Mark Vanderloo
Dwyane Wade
Rufus Wainwright
Alek Wek
Photo: Kevin Tachman
Lou Doillon
Simon Doonan and
Jonathan Adler
Preta Gil
Brad Goreski
Kevin and Stephen Huvane
Chanel Iman
Max Iron
Cheyenne Jackson
Marc Jacobs
Jimmy Jean-Louis
Ke$ha
Terence Koh
Diane Kruger
Ali Larter
Donovan Leitch
Judith Light
Alex Lundqvist
Photo: Getty/WireImage
Alessandra Ambrosio
Tyson Ballou
Neil Barrett
John Bartlett
Lance Bass
Garcelle Beauvais
Tyson Beckford
Natasha Bedingfield
Roberto Bolle
Adrien Brody
Thom Browne
Emily Browning
Dean and Dan Caten
Carmen and Dolores
Chaplin
Alan Cumming
Claire Danes
Larry David
Photo: Getty/WireImage
To date, notable attendees include:
Event sponsors include:
André Balazs Properties
Arizona Beverages
Audi
B&B Italia
Beauté Prestige International/
Jean-Paul Gaultier Parfums
Bodhi Bags
Calvin Klein Collection
Creative Artists Agency
Diageo
DSquared2
Ducati
Evian
Grey Goose Vodka
Hugo Boss
Jeff Leatham
Kiehl’s Since 1851
L’Oréal Paris
Louis Vuitton
Lovely Surprise
M∙A∙C Cosmetics
Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group
Piaget
Piper-Heidsieck
Reca Group
Rémy
Walt Disney Studios
Wilhelmina Models
Y-3