Auckland Designer Wins International Award

21 August 2006

Auckland Designer Wins International Award

Lawrence Blankenbyl, the 23 year old creative director of one of New Zealand's leading production houses has just been announced as the 2006 British Council/ Panprint New Media Design Ambassador.

His prize includes a return trip to the UK, $3000 towards expenses and custom designed programme including attendance at London Design Week and introductions to key UK design elite.

Lawrence graduated from AUT in 2004, and is currently Creative Director at The Sweet Shop - recently judged one of the top 20 production companies in the world by trade publication Boards Magazine. His directing portfolio includes music videos for King Kapisi and Blindspott, and a viral ad for Panasonic.

The judges of this year's awards, Fraser Gardyne (GardyneHolt) and 2002 winner Sam Brodie (Alt Group) commended Lawrence for his exceptional body of work displaying an understanding of film and graphic design, underpinned by superb technical skills.

Sam Brodie says "Lawrence's mix of raw talent and burning ambition positions him as one of our most talented emerging designers and he will proudly represent New Zealand's creative industries on a global stage. His exposure to world-class designers and thought-leaders at London Design Week will connect him to new trends and networks essential to realising his potential."

Lawrence's prize also includes a year's membership of the Designers Institute of New Zealand, and a customised package from the Intellectual Property Office of New Zealand. Additionally, his work will be included on the D&AD Getty Images Bloodbank, a database of the best young creative talent from around the world.

This is the fourth year of this nationwide competition which recognises New Zealand's most promising young graphic designer. The Panprint New Media Award is part of the British Council Design Ambassadors Programme, which also includes awards for young fashion and product designers.

ENDS

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