Inspired by ‘Yet’ philosophy, 12 designers make it as Lexus Design Award 2017 finalists

Lexus International today announced the 12 finalists for the Lexus Design Award 2017. First launched in 2013 to help stimulate the ideas necessary to build a better tomorrow, Lexus is celebrating the 5th anniversary of this international design competition that supports up-and-coming designers and creators worldwide. Lexus Design Award 2017 drew 1,152 entries from 63 countries under the theme of ‘Yet.’

As the philosophical soul of Lexus innovation, ‘Yet’ is particularly appropriate for the 5th anniversary of this Lexus event. ‘Yet’ inspires us to find synergy effects by fusing seemingly incompatible goals – spacious yet aerodynamic design, for example. By harmonizing contradictory elements, ‘Yet’ opens up visionary frontiers of progressive design and technology to deliver amazing, new experiences to the world.

In November 2016, a panel of world-renowned designers and creative mentors gathered to judge the entries. After rigorous evaluation and extensive discussion, the judges chose 12 finalists.

According to Takayuki Yoshitsugu, Chief Representative, Middle East and North Africa Representative Office, Toyota Motor Corporation, “Each year, the Lexus Design Award inspires a group of talented creators to create some of the most brilliant, unique and creative concepts the world of design has ever seen. We are proud to be giving these gifted individuals the global platform to showcase their creativity and imagination.”

Yoshitsugu added: “It has been fascinating to see this year’s participants draw upon Lexus’ ‘Yet’ philosophy, and simultaneously harmonize two or more contrasting yet striking aspects that make their designs stand out. Their themes mirror the new and emerging trends shaping the automotive industry, while also representing the approach Lexus continues to embrace.

Yoshitsugu also thanked Lexus customers for their continued support in making the award a successful initiative year after year.

Out of these 12 finalists, the following four were selected to prototype their designs, mentored by globally recognized creators.

• Having nothing, and yet possessing everything, Ahran Won, Korea

A capsule for mobile living – Having Nothing YET Everything.

• PIXEL, Hiroto Yoshizoe, Japan

A structure to experience the existence of Light YET Shadow.

• Player’s Pflute, Jia Wu, China

Vegetable YET a Musical instrument providing fun and learning experience.

• Structural Color - Static Yet Changing, Jessica Fügler, USA

Static YET Changeable structure depending on viewpoint.

To provide creative guidance to the above four finalists, Lexus Design Award 2017 has enlisted four renowned mentors: architects and interdisciplinary designers Neri & Hu, designer Max Lamb, designer/architect Elena Manferdini, and artist/architect Snarkitecture. All of them served as mentors to last year’s finalists as well.

The four completed prototypes will be featured as part of the Lexus exhibition at this year’s Milan Design Week, along with presentation boards introducing the other eight finalists’ designs. The event will run from April 3rd (press and award presentation day) through April 9th. On April 3rd, the finalists will present their designs to the judges and international media. The judges will evaluate the four prototypes and announce the Grand Prix winner, marking the climax of the Lexus Design Award 2017 cycle.