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 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