The Woolmark Company, which proffers a prestigious talent programme – the International Woolmark Prize, has started the search for its next winner to follow in the footsteps of Richard Malone, Edward Crutchley and Teatum Jones.
They have opened applications to all those talented designers which have been producing commercially available apparels for at least 2 years to a maximum of 8 years.
In addition to this, applicants should have demonstrated a yearly growth in sales, a dedication towards promoting best practices across supply chains as well as instilled innovative use of fabrics and textiles in their designs.
An Advisory Council of experts from the industry will choose 10 finalists from across the world who are ‘in the early stages of their career and have shown promise and dedication in growing a sustainable business, though are yet to be established in a global sense.’
The finalists will partake in The Woolmark Company’s Innovation Academy, an 18-month long education and mentoring programme.
According to a statement by the company, “The Woolmark Company’s Innovation Academy, a robust 18-month education and mentoring programme, offers unparalleled access to International Woolmark Prize partners and advisors supporting product development, research and development, business and sustainability strategies to assist in the development of their collections and brands.”
In addition, each finalist will receive AU $ 70,000 or approximately US $ 40,000 to develop a capsule collection meant to showcase the versatility, innovative nature and eco-credentials of Merino wool.
The total combined prize fund for the 2021 International Woolmark Prize stands at AU $ 1 million or around US $ 600,000, with the overall winner awarded AU $ 200,000 or US $ 120,000, and the winner of the Karl Lagerfeld Award for Innovationbeing awarded an additional prize fund of AU $ 100,000.
Along with the prize, winners and finalists have the unique opportunity for their Merino capsule collections to be sold in the top boutiques and stores that are a part of International Woolmark Prize’s extensive Retail Partner Network.
“Now more than ever we need a reason to celebrate and give hope to independent designers in a way which breaks down cultures and borders to unite us as one,” says The Woolmark Company Managing Director, Stuart McCullough.
He added “Online applications ensure the International Woolmark Prize has the potential to benefit designers from every corner of the globe. We also thank the continued support of the International Woolmark Prize Nominating Bodies who play a valuable role in connecting the best emerging design talent with the prize.”
Applicants have till 27 April to apply, for which they can visit www.woolmarkprize.com/apply
