And the Award Goes to... an Award?

While browsing through the latest I.D. Annual Design Review, I was stopped by a photo of this beautiful, pointy object (page 103 for those who have access to the annual).



The shiny pyramid turned out to be the Vilcek trophy given annually to American immigrants who have made a lasting contributions in the arts and sciences. Also included with the award is a cheque for $50,000. I'm assuming part of this money is to be used to create a mantle worthy of such an award. It just wouldn't look right on an IKEA Billy bookcase.

The award winning award is individualized with the recipients name in the base. How is it made you ask? At least that's what I wanted to know. Turns out it's an extrusion using rapid prototyping technology that was then plated in silver. I was a little disappointed that it was that simple, but what an impact. A superb use of the technology.

The design is by Sagmeister, and here I thought I didn't like nything they ever did. (BTW not a big fan of his present website either, it really does a number on my astigmatism).