Calling all graphic designers to enter 2004 Suttgart Calendar Show

Entries for the competition, dubbed the "Cannes Festival of art calendars", close on 21 November, 2003.

"South African agency Chalk Design won bronze in Stuttgart this year, the highest accolade ever for a local entrant during our seven-year involvement with the competition. We'd like South Africa to do better in 2004 so now is the time for local creatives to enter," says Jo Haden-Smith, managing director of Papersmith & Son.

Papersmith & Son, who also hosts an exhibition of the 50 best calendars from the show locally, believes that local graphic designers can follow the path opened by Chalk Design's success to create exciting works that reflect our varied cultures.

The merchant coordinates the local entries for the international competition. Designers who submit four copies of an original calendar design to Papersmith & Son by the closing date, will have their works shipped to Germany by the merchant.

Designs can be in any medium. Some truly original ideas have been found among exhibits over the years – calendars with washable silk pages or with Braille even with mini CDs for an acoustic accompaniment to each page. One of this year's favourites was a made from wood.

"We need more South African entries. This year, of about 1 500 entries, only nine were from South Africa," says Haden-Smith. "I'm confident that our designers have the talent to compete successfully on the world stage."

Judging will take place in December 2003 in Stuttgart where a panel of expert judges from the design and related industries will select their entries for gold, silver and bronze. After further judging, one of the calendars in the gold category will be awarded the prestigious Gregor-Award - the "prix du jury" or "Calendar Oscar".

Kodak Germany will also choose the best photographic calendar.

Honourable mentions may also be awarded in recognition of outstanding achievements, in, for example, environmental friendliness.

Prize winners will receive their certificates at a prize-giving ceremony which takes place at the exhibition's opening.

"There are no cash prizes in the competition: participation is looked upon as a coveted indicator of quality," concludes Haden-Smith.

For entry forms contact:
Johannesburg - Jennifer Todd (011) 837 0979
Cape Town - Lisa Procter (021) 510 8672
Durban - Jenni Lovett (031) 702 0581