Submissions are still open for Lexus Design Award 2019

Emerging designers and creators have about three weeks left to submit their entries for the distinguished Lexus Design Award 2019. The worldwide design competition provides a valuable platform for creative talent from around the world, whose innovative works ultimately lead to a better future for all. Now in its seventh year, the coveted award is being held under the inspiring call to action ‘Design for a Better Tomorrow,’ and the deadline for entries is 28 October 2018. 

Yugo Miyamoto, Chief Representative, Middle East and North Africa Representative ‎Office, Toyota Motor Corporation, said: “We are extremely delighted to launch the 2019 Lexus Design Award. This international competition has been motivating talented emerging creatives to fresh heights of innovation for seven consecutive years. We look forward to being inspired by this year’s entries that are expected to ‘Anticipate,’ ‘Innovate,’ and ‘Captivate,’ and deliver groundbreaking solutions through designs that answer the evolving needs of society and overcome challenges to design a better tomorrow for all.” 

Miyamotoadded: “Each of our chosen finalists will benefit from a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to turn their visions into reality with the assistance of our mentorship program, giving them an exclusive opportunity to partner with acclaimed professionals who share their valuable knowledge and experience. I would like to extend my gratitude to our loyal customers, whose support is a constant source of inspiration in our quest to reach beyond the conventional and create amazing experiences.” 

The creative ideas submitted are expected to incorporate three fundamental principles from the Lexus brand: ‘Anticipate,’ ‘Innovate,’ and ‘Captivate.’ The designs should anticipate the needs of tomorrow’s society, offer innovative solutions, and be capable of captivating and engaging the audience and esteemed judging panel. 

The six finalists in the contest are due to be announced in early 2019. Each will receive a production budget of up to JPY 3 million (over AED 99,000) to develop their ideas into functional prototypes. These will be displayed at the prestigious Milan Design Week 2019, where they will compete for the Grand Prix. 

The six successful entrants will benefit from a once-in-a-lifetime mentorship on the road to Milan, offering unprecedented access to hands-on guidance from leading professionals, who will share their expertise throughout the production process and beyond. The judges and mentors for the award will be revealed in fall 2018. In previous years, these have included renowned figures such as Sir David Adjaye, Snarkitecture, and Formafantasma.