Concept of ‘CO’‎ inspires Lexus Design Award 2018 – Now open for entries

Entries will be accepted until 8 October 2017

Continuing its commitment to a better world through design, Lexus International today announced its call for entries for the Lexus Design Award 2018. Launched in 2013, the award is an international platform to identify and recognize the next generation of global creators and designers. Every year, thousands of young creative talents from around the world aspire to be selected for the final round. Those twelve finalists and their works will be introduced to the design community and beyond at Milan Design Week 2018; four of the finalists will be mentored by established global designers and given a production budget of JPY 3 million (equivalent to AED 98,000‎) to create actual prototypes. In addition to the unique mentorship opportunity and global exposure, young designers are drawn to the Lexus Design Award by the inspiring theme that provides endless possibilities from a design perspective. This year’s creative theme for the Lexus Design Award 2018 is ‘CO-,’ a Latin prefix meaning ‘with or together in harmony.’ Lexus believes that great design can ensure the harmonious coexistence of nature and society. In that sense, ‘CO-’ is an approach that allows the brand to explore its true potential and that of the environment by creating new possibilities through collaboration, coordination, and connection. Now, young designers get their turn for ‘CO-‎’‎ to inspire them to conceive a better world. According to Takayuki Yoshitsugu, Chief Representative, Middle East and North Africa Representative Office, Toyota Motor Corporation, “The Lexus Design Award 2018 continues the Lexus brand’s commitment to supporting the next generation of designers to build a better future for all through design. It reflects the passion for design that drives Lexus forward as a brand while extending our values and design ethos to a wider global audience. This year’s theme, ‘CO-‎,’ symbolizes Lexus’ belief in the power of design, and provides applicants with an inspiring topic around which to present their creative ideas that help make the world a better place. We greatly appreciate the support we have received over the years from our customers and design enthusiasts around the world for the Lexus Design Award.” The judges who assess the designs are globally recognized illustrious creators who are active in diverse design genres. Additionally, mentorship is provided by esteemed designers who share their know-how and provide hands-on support. They guide the selected candidates to express their full potential through the development of working prototypes of their innovative ideas. The judges and mentors for the Lexus Design Award 2018 will be announced in August 2017. As in previous years, Lexus will be partnering with a select group of renowned professionals who embody design excellence at the front lines of creativity around the world and who share the brand’s belief that great design can make the world a better place. During Milan Design Week, all the finalists’ works will be displayed at the Lexus experiential space. Judges will then assess the four prototypes to choose the Grand Prix winner for 2018. Previous winners have gone on to enjoy success and further develop their ideas into viable products. Entries to the Lexus Design Award 2018 competition will be accepted from July 24 through October 8, 2017. For more information on the application process, please visit LexusDesignAward.com. The twelve finalists will be announced in early 2018.

About Lexus Design Award: First launched in 2013, the Lexus Design Award is an international design competition that targets up-and-coming creators from around the world. The award seeks to foster the growth of ideas that contribute to society by supporting designers and creators whose works can help to shape a better future. It provides a unique opportunity for four finalists to work with a globally recognized designer as a mentor to create prototypes of their designs, and then exhibit them at one of the design calendar’s most important events. About Lexus: Since its debut in 1989, Lexus has earned a worldwide reputation for high-quality products and exemplary customer service. Lexus is the hybrid leader among luxury brands, offering hybrids that provide the best in innovative technology and premier luxury. The evolution of Lexus is reflected in the progressive designs of its new vehicles. The signature spindle grille, dynamic light treatments, and sculptured lines create a distinctive look of luxury for Lexus.