3 min read
03 Nov
03Nov

In a groundbreaking move, Lexus has revealed a dynamic collaboration with the renowned Dutch solar designer, Marjan van Aubel, to unveil an eye-catching solar-powered installation at the Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami (ICA Miami) sculpture garden. 

Inspired by the cutting-edge LF-ZC Lexus Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) Concept car and brought to life in partnership with spatial experience design studio Random Studio, this interactive masterpiece is set to redefine the boundaries of design and technology with a focus on a sustainable, carbon-neutral future. 

The grand unveiling is scheduled for early December, and the installation will be on display throughout Miami Art & Design Week 2023. 

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8 Minutes and 20 Seconds

Lexus - Dutch solar designer Marjan van Aubel design collaboration.

Named "8 Minutes and 20 Seconds" as a nod to the time it takes for sunlight to travel from the sun to Earth, this installation brilliantly showcases the immense potential of harnessing carbon-neutral energy. 

It serves as a sculptural interpretation of Lexus's innovative new electrification model, intricately constructed around Marjan van Aubel's unique utilization of organic photovoltaic (OPV) cells, commonly found in solar power applications. 

Through the lens of van Aubel's solar design expertise, this installation not only pays homage to the sun's journey but also amplifies the ingenuity of Lexus's environmentally-conscious and technologically-pioneering electrified vehicle. 

The Lexus LF-ZC: Catalyst For Innovation In EV Design

Lexus Future Zero-emission Catalyst.

Lexus remains steadfast in its commitment to social responsibility in mobility design and broader societal contexts, driving the brand to challenge conventions and push the boundaries while maintaining a far-reaching vision for sustainability. 

The LF-ZC (Lexus Future Zero-emission Catalyst) concept car is a crucial part of the upcoming next-generation Lexus BEV lineup. 

True to its name, the model acts as a catalyst for new experiences in the electric age, promising elevated driving dynamics, uncompromised design, and exclusive services—a reflection of the Lexus brand's promise to craft vehicles that enhance the lives of discerning customers. 

The Lexus–Marjan van Aubel Partnership

Lexus and Dutch solar designer Marjan van Aubel design collaboration.

Marjan van Aubel has earned global recognition for seamlessly integrating solar energy into everyday life through aesthetically pleasing solutions. Her dedication to sustainability within the art and design sector has led to award-winning furniture and lighting designs, as well as striking public installations. 

Notably, she is a co-founder of the world's first Solar Biennale, and her remarkable works are on display in prestigious institutions, including the MoMA, Vitra Design Museum, Stedelijk Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. 

Marjan van Aubel commented, "Lexus' dedication to innovation and craftsmanship resonates with the ethos of my own practice, which is that functional design can be both sustainable and aesthetically beautiful. With this collaboration, I hope we can bring light to the concept that sustainable design solutions are works of art." 

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The Lexus–Random Studio Partnership

Lexus design studio.

This installation marks Marjan van Aubel's first public project in Miami, while Lexus has been bringing remarkable installations to Miami Art & Design Week since 2018. This project signifies the second year of their partnership with ICA Miami. 

Together, Lexus and ICA Miami are dedicated to creating experiences that inspire visitors to contemplate the positive impact of creative design. To bring this installation to life, van Aubel's studio is collaborating with Random Studio, an acclaimed Certified B Corporation®, renowned for creating immersive spatial experiences worldwide. 

The installation will model the LF-ZC at scale, constructed with OPV sheets that cast colorful shadows as sunlight plays upon them throughout the day. Light and motion sensors within the sculpture will enhance the interactive nature of the installation, offering a visual spectacle that engages the senses and embodies the inspiring possibilities of Lexus's electric revolution. 

The Lexus Art Series 2023

Lexus Art Series via Lexus Magazine UK.

Coinciding with the installation, Lexus will host the Lexus Art Series: Art and Innovation talks with Whitewall, featuring intimate discussions and talks between Lexus ambassadors and industry leaders across the art and design worlds. More details on these events will be provided in November. 

Brian Bolain, Lexus' global head of marketing, expressed their honor in working with Marjan van Aubel and stated, "Her unwavering commitment to sustainable, human-first design is a characteristic we value strongly here at Lexus. We could not think of a better location for her installation to be unveiled than at ICA Miami, a world-class institution." 

Alex Gartenfeld, Irma and Norman Braman Artistic Director at ICA Miami, stressed the importance of environmental sustainability:

"Marjan van Aubel's powerful work with Lexus represents significant advances in innovative sustainable design and shows how global ecological concern drives contemporary solutions. We are delighted to provide an important platform for Marjan van Aubel and their powerful work during Miami Art Week."

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