Signed Gucci tote goes under the hammer.

Earlier this week, we were pleased to announce the launch of a charity auction – a collaboration between our Style Council, Paddle8 and the Elton John Aids Foundation. Today, we speak to EJAF chairman Mr David Furnish about the project, the proceeds of which will go towards funding crucial research into HIV prevention and support. Below, he discusses the foundation, the auction, and the autographed Gucci tote he has donated as a lot.

What does this Paddle8 auction mean to you?

This is the first time the MR PORTER Style Council has joined forces with Paddle8 and we have produced an auction benefitting a worthy charity. Participating Style Council members have generously donated art work, unique experiences and signature fashion items to the auction. As chairman of the Elton John Aids Foundation and a Style Council member, I am so grateful to MR PORTER and Paddle8 for selecting the Elton John Aids Foundation as the beneficiary of this first collaborative effort. For me personally, this auction brings together my interest in men’s fashion and international style with an urgent cause to which I’ve dedicated my life.

What do you hope the auction achieves?

In addition to raising significant funding for the Elton John Aids Foundation’s lifesaving mission, I also hope the auction engages the interest of MR PORTER readers, EJAF and Paddle8 followers in our work, raises awareness about our role in confronting the continuing challenges of the Aids epidemic, and brings new people to our cause.

Explain your role with the Elton John Aids Foundation. What does it involve?

I first met Elton in 1993, just as the Elton John Aids Foundation was getting on its feet in the US and the UK. I was there almost from the very beginning, and it has been the most extraordinary and meaningful work of my life to be an integral part of this transformative philanthropic effort. For a number of years now, I’ve served as chairman of the Foundation in both the US and the UK. In this role, I am the de facto leader of the organisation, helping to support its vision and mission around the world.

What made you choose your lot? What’s the story behind the Gucci Elton John collaboration?

Elton and I have autographed a wonderful, fun leather tote from the Gucci Elton John Collection, designed as an homage to Elton and his remarkable career. The tote is printed with a replica of the vinyl cover for the 1971 single “Levon – Goodbye” from the album Madman Across The Water. Elton is also embarking on a three-year farewell tour, “Farewell Yellow Brick Road,” and all of his costumes for the tour have been designed by Alessandro Michele at Gucci. Elton was introduced to Alessandro three years ago by Jared Leto, and they developed an instant rapport and friendship based on mutual respect for each other’s artistry.

Who would be the ideal person to own this?

The perfect person to own this tote would be someone with a great sense of style combined with a genuine appreciation for Elton’s music and stature as a pop-music icon and international humanitarian.

Which lot would you most like to bid on?

I can’t wait to start bidding on this auction! All of us at the Elton John Aids Foundation are so indebted to my fellow MR PORTER Style Council members for generously donating this amazing collection of objects, experiences, fashion items, accessories and more.

Bid on Sir Elton’s and Mr Furnish’s signed tote bag here