Marjan van Aubel transforms the recently unveiled LF-ZC from Lexus into a beacon of light. The designer, known for her solar sculptures, wants to draw attention to the fact that solar technology is not only immensely valuable in terms of its functionality, but can also be enchantingly beautiful.
8 minutes and 20 seconds – that’s how long it takes for a ray of sunlight to hit the Earth’s surface. At a distance of around 150 million kilometers, this means that light travels through space at a speed of just under 300,000,000 meters per second. »8 Minutes and 20 Seconds« is also the name of the interactive installation that Marjan van Aubel designed in cooperation with Lexus for Miami Art & Design Week. Unlike what we are used to in the automotive context, this is not about the »0 to 100« figure, but about the speed of light. This is no coincidence, as the Amsterdam designer is known for using solar technology to create interactive design experiences. It is also working continuously to integrate solar energy as seamlessly as possible into our environment.
For her solar sculpture created in cooperation with Lexus, which was on show in Miami in December, she used organic photovoltaics (OPV) to transform the LF-ZC concept car into an impressive, dancing figure of light. It was very important to her to show that photovoltaics is more than just a technology, but can also be integrated into everyday life in an aesthetically and artistically appealing way.
»It’s been a joy to bring the LF-ZC concept car to life! Lexus’s ethos towards innovation, craftsmanship, and new material use resonates with my design practice. This installation invites people to interact with light and color and engages them to imagine a more sustainable, positive future. Through this partnership, I could tell a new narrative of generating energy beautifully«, says van Aubel, whose most important works include designing the roof surface of the Dutch pavilion at the 2020 World Expo in Dubai. She has also worked with brands such as Cos, Timberland and Swarovski. The sculpture, conceived by Marjan van Aubel, was created by Random Studio—an Amsterdam-based design studio specializing in immersive design experiences. The Lexus concept car is set to go into series production in a similar form in 2026. [SW]
