LEXUS DESIGN AWARD
Yet was the theme of this year’s Lexus installation. We show you the creations of the winner and finalists
Yet was the thought-provoking theme of the Lexus installation at La Triennale di Milano. Created by Israeli-American architect Professor Neri Oxman and The Mediated Matter Group of MIT Media Lab, the installation aimed to reflect the experience of being grounded yet suspended by light, an expression of ancient material (glass) yet modern technology (3D-printing). The Lexus installation also presented the work of the 12 Lexus Design Award 2017 finalists. “At Lexus, our Yet philosophy gives us the courage to combine elements that at first seem incompatible,” says Lexus International president Yoshihiro Sawa. “With Yet we don’t compromise; we harmonise to create synergy. Yet is the catalyst that triggers breakthroughs. Yet drives Lexus to explore visionary frontiers of design and technology.’” This year’s Lexus installation — its 10th at Milan Design Week — was certainly one of the most enigmatic. “Some of you will respond intellectually, others will respond emotionally,” says Professor Oxman as she discussed the 3D-printed glass columns that mesmerised guests. “We attempted to explore the theme of Yet in different ways, through the lens of light, the lens of glass and the lens of experience.” Static Yet Dynamic was an additional exhibit that revealed the Lexus UX concept car via light projections. The four prototype finalists in the Lexus Design Award 2017, mentored by globally respected designers, were Ahran Won (South Korea), Jessica Fügler (US), Jia Wu (China) and Hiroto Yoshizoe (Japan).