New Architecture Prize Aims to Raise Stature of Canada

Ottawa, Canada (ots/PRNewswire) -

The Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) Foundation
announces the launch of one of the largest architectural prizes in
the world - the Moriyama RAIC International Prize.

Distinguished Canadian architect Raymond Moriyama established the
prize together with the Foundation. To be awarded every two years,
the prize consists of CAD $100,000 and a sculpture designed by
Canadian designer Wei Yew.

"My hope is that this prize will raise not only the stature of the
RAIC internationally, but also the stature of Canada, and inspire
Canadians and Canadian architects to aspire higher," says Moriyama,
84.

The prize is open to any architect, firm, or collaboration in the
world for an outstanding building or project. It may also be granted
to a non-architect for an exceptional contribution to architecture.
The winner will be selected through an open, juried competition.

Submissions are due by August 1, 2014. The first award ceremony
takes place in Toronto on October 11, 2014.

In addition, three students of Canadian schools of architecture
will each receive scholarships of CAD $5,000. They will be chosen on
the basis of a written essay.

The prize reflects Raymond Moriyama's passion for architecture
that has the power to transform society through humanistic values
such as social justice, equality, and inclusivity.

"It is not a lifetime achievement award," he says. "Anybody, young
or old could apply and have a chance of winning." Criteria include
design excellence, client satisfaction, and quality of detail.

The idea first came to Moriyama in 1976 while on a three-month
walk in the footsteps of Buddha through India and Nepal. More
recently, he made a bequest to the RAIC Foundation to create the
prize.

Toronto-based Moriyama & Teshima Architects is known for many
critically acclaimed projects including the Canadian War Museum in
Ottawa and the Canadian Embassy in Tokyo.

The Foundation promotes excellence in architecture and exchange
between Canadian and international architects, clients, and policy
makers. Supported by donations, it aims to raise a $5-million
endowment for the prize.

"Raymond Moriyama conducted his practice with a rare degree of
humanity and humility," says BarryJohns, chair of the RAIC Foundation
Board of Trustees. "The prize is a testament to his vision and
generosity."

Prize details: http://www.raic.org/moriyamaprize

Moriyama's biography:
http://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.com/en/article/raymond-moriyama

For more information and images:
Maria Cook
RAIC Manager, Communications and Advocacy
mcook@raic.org
613-241-3600 Ext. 213

ots Originaltext: RAIC
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