Lexus Announces Three Mentors for 2021 DESIGN AWARD

Lexus today announced three mentors for the 2021 LEXUS DESIGN AWARD, the international design competition which is currently accepting submissions from the world's emerging designers. Architect Mariam Kamara and designer Sabine Marcelis join as first-time mentors along with designer/inventor Joe Doucet who returns for his second year. A fourth mentor will be announced this fall.

Each mentor carries a unique perspective and expertise, which they will bring directly to the program finalists. Nigerien architect Mariam Kamara creates spaces that elevate, dignify and provide a better quality of life in her projects worldwide. Sabine Marcelis, based in the Netherlands, works in material, installation and object design, seeking magical moments to create unexpected experiences. Joe Doucet, who is a designer, entrepreneur, inventor and creative director, focuses on finding solutions for daily societal challenges in product, furniture, environment and technology design.

Sabine Marcelis said: As a new member of the mentor team, I am very excited to see the ideas of our future generation of designers. Now, more than ever, innovative design-led ideas will play an important role in shaping our future. I cannot wait to guide and help shape and realize these ideas with them, putting a focus on sustainable production processes and innovative and environmentally friendly material choices. Now is a time to think radically so I am hoping the submitted projects will be exactly that!

The judging criteria of the LEXUS DESIGN AWARD are based on three key Lexus brand principles: Anticipate, Innovate and Captivate for a better tomorrow. From among the worldwide entries six finalists will be selected for mentoring by world-class creators at the forefront of their fields. Beginning with a direct mentoring workshop, this unique program also provides months of ongoing mentorship during prototype production until final presentation for Grand Prix judging. With their diverse backgrounds and disciplines mentors give upcoming creators a panoply of valuable advice and fresh perspectives.

In addition, we are pleased to announce that MoMA NY curator Paola Antonelli, a design authority who has served on the jury since the award's inception, and Simon Humphries, Head of Toyota & Lexus Global Design, Lexus International, will stay on as judges for the LEXUS DESIGN AWARD 2021 program.

The six finalists selected by the Judging Panel will bring their ideas to life as prototypes under their mentors, and exhibit and present their work at Milan Design Week in April 2021. On-site presentations and judging will climax with the announcement of the Grand Prix winner.

The final roster of judges and mentors will be announced this fall.

Entries for the LEXUS DESIGN AWARD 2021 will be accepted until October 11.

LEXUS DESIGN AWARD 2020 is still ongoing and will conclude with the Grand Prix Winner announcement on September 1st.