When BOS launched their Design-A-Can campaign in August last year to South African residents, it marked a major step for the local ice tea brand’s involvement in the design community. Since their launch in 2010, BOS Ice Tea has been a loyal supporter of the creative industries, most notably within the world of Art & Design.
For founder of BOS, Grant Rushmere, good design is an intrinsic part of the brands’ DNA and his own design philosophy informs and permeates all aspects of the brand’s visual language.
By closing date, BOS had received well over 700 entries from all over South Africa. Entries came from established creatives, up-and-coming designers, as well as BOS consumers who entered just for fun. Rushmere expresses his gratitude to each and every individual who submitted their design, saying that “we were overwhelmed with the entries we received and the amazing design talent out there – so much time, creativity and dedication from each entrant.”
When judging time arrived it posed quite a challenge to pick a favourite, as there were many design entries one could imagine being carried by the iconic BOS can. But, as the process progressed, it was clear which design resonated with the BOS ethos and vision. “Judging is never an easy process, but Ofentse Letebele’s design stands out to us for its modern spin on what is essentially a very African design, and looks great as part of the BOS family.”
For Ofentse, who grew up in Mabopane, Tshwane, it has been an amazing experience being chosen as the winner. “BOS has been instrumental in my career launch as an emerging creative. I feel very blessed and will always be grateful for the opportunity.” Highlighting the thought behind his design, Ofentse claims that he drew inspiration from the 18th Century Ndebele wall painting style. The style itself has quite a distinctive palette and geometrical alignment that seems to echo “Africa” at the back of the mind. “One of the great things about being South African is that you don’t have to look far for inspiration,” he says.
Ofentse sees the design having a longer shelf life beyond the beverage consumption. “I wanted to design something that could be part of a fashion statement, or interior décor. So I’m hoping people wont throw it away, but rather collect and share.”
An artist, musician, graffiti artist and designer in his own right, Ofentse has a bright future ahead of him. Having already established other endeavors of his own, such as his public art project #AMANDLA – a salute to express unity, and which defines power to the people.
To celebrate Ofentse’s win, BOS will be hosting two official launch events in Johannesburg and Cape Town respectively. As part of the exhibition, BOS will also showcase the other shortlisted entries at both events.
About the new flavour:
The winning can design has been paired with a completely innovative and delicious new flavour for a limited time only: green rooibos ice tea with Yuzu. Yuzu is an innovation on the South African market, an emerging “super fruit” with a delicious citrus flavour. And Green Rooibos provides a twist on traditional rooibos, packed with even more anti-oxidants.
BOS is looking forward to launching the next installment of the BOS Design-A-Can campaign, which they want to establish as an annual competition for years to come.
After a hugely successful 2014 campaign, BOS will launch their Design-A-Can competition 2015 at 100% Design South Africa later this year. From this year onwards BOS will also be accepting entries internationally.
For further information please contact:
Talita Calitz
Tel: 021 465 9989
Follow BOS:
Twitter: @BOS
Facebook: www.facebook.com/bosicetea
Instagram: @bosicetea