Japanese artist Genta Ishizuka wins Loewe Craft Prize 2019

Loewe has awarded the third edition of its Loewe Craft Prize to Japanese artist Genta Ishizuka for his work ‘Surface Tactility #11’. He was selected from 29 shortlisted finalists.

A panel of judges made up of leading names from the design, architecture and journalism worlds, selected Ishizuka as the winner of this year’s Craft Prize. Commenting on Ishizuka’s submission, the Loewe’s creative director and a member of the jury, Jonathan Anderson said: “Ishizuka’s work proves that craft can be open and shows the freedom of creation. His use of an ancient lacquer technique in a contemporary form breaks conventions and represents a new sculptural vision in craft.’

The jury also announced two special mentions, awarded to British artist Harry Morgan for ‘Untitled’ and Kazuhito Takadoi for ‘Kado’. Both artists will receive a cash prize of 5,000 euros, while Genta Ishizuka has scooped 50,000 euros and a silver trophy.

The Spanish luxury brand announced Genta Ishizuka as winner of the third edition of the design competition at a ceremony held on Tuesday at the Sogetsu Kaikan in Tokyo. The venue will also serve as the home of an exhibition that will showcase all works created by finalists until 22 July.

The Loewe Craft Prize was launched by Loewe Foundation in 2016 with the aim of spreading and celebrating innovation, excellence and artistic merit in modern craftsmanship. This year, the luxury brand led by Jonathan Anderson received more than 2,500 submissions from over 100 countries, representing a 44% increase on last year.

Japanese artist Genta Ishizuka wins Loewe Craft Prize 2019

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