WORLD DESIGN MEDAL WINNER

The World Design Organization has named Hartmut Esslinger, founder of frogdesign, as the recipient of the 2017 World Design Medal for his exceptional and significant contribution to the profession of industrial design.

“The decision was unanimous,” noted Dr. Brandon Gien, Senate Convenor of the WDO Senate Selection Committee. “Esslinger’s body of work is revolutionary, particularly around the guiding principle of emotion before form, which has defined the modern consumer aesthetic.”

“He is a legend in industrial design, renowned for his collaboration with Steve Jobs and Apple,” said WDO President Mugendi M’Rithaa. “We were very much impressed by Esslinger’s global reach and his continued influence among young industrial designers today.”

The announcement comes on World Industrial Design Day, celebrated every 29 June around the world to raise awareness of industrial design and its role in effecting positive change. Esslinger will accept the World Design Medal and give a keynote presentation at the 30th WDO General Assembly in Torino, Italy from 14-15 October 2017.

WDO launched the World Design Medal in celebration of its 60th anniversary and to showcase exceptional industrial designers from around the globe who are driving positive change in the world through design.

A Selection Committee, made up of our active Senators, selects the recipient following an open call for nominations.

More information here.