On Saturday, Nike and Lance united to launch “Stages,” a global art exhibition to raise funds and awareness for the LAF. “Stages” brings together more than 20 of the world’s most creative and diverse artists to create original works of art inspired by Lance and our mission to raise awareness of the global cancer burden. This unique project brings together the world of art, philanthropy and sport, in a way never before seen, to create artwork that represents the power of human potential in overcoming adversity. Artists participating in the “Stages” tour include names such as Shepard Fairey, Damien Hirst, Tom Sachs, Barry McGee and Marc Newson. All artists will begin working on their pieces between now and July, leading to an exhibition at the world renowned Emmanuel Perrotin Gallery in Paris on July 16th, with all pieces being auctioned off in October with funds raised coming to the LAF.

The launch included the unveiling of Shepard Fairey’s new mural (derived from Liz Kreutz’s photography) on the side of the Montalban Theater in downtown Hollywood.

Defiance, Courage, Action

Lance and Doug met up with good friend of the LAF, Dr. Stu Siegel, at Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles where they visited children and teen oncology patients. The response was amazing as the hospital staff, patients and families talked with Lance and shared with him their own personal art projects.

Lance at Children

Then came the big event with Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa welcoming us to LA and allowing more than 700 cyclists to take over Sunset Blvd. People from all over the U.S. (an entire family of 8 came all the way from Louisiana just to participate!) converged on the streets clad in “Hope Rides Again” t-shirts, and hooted and hollered as they made their way 2.2 miles to the theater with the likes of Lance; Nike CEO, Mark Parker; Evan Handler and Patrick Dempsey.

Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa Greets Lance

Inside the theater, fans were treated to an entertaining introduction of Doug and Lance by Ben Stiller, and then some candid living room conversation about the beginnings of the Nike/LAF relatiosnship with Nike CEO, Mark Parker, and where we’re headed with the “Stages” art project with Shepard Fairey. To close the night, Ben Harper and his new band, the Relentless 7 surprised the crowd and played a rousing hour set.

The Ride in Hollywood

Doug and Lance with Nike CEO, Mark Parker

It was an incredibly successful weekend and a perfect launch to what is sure to be an enormous philanthropic effort on behalf of the LAF.

Read more and see video about the launch from LAist.com and the LA Times .

To further support the fight against cancer, Nike is releasing two sportswear collections, all proceeds of which will be contributed to the LAF. Check out the new products.