Three custom designed Scions unveiled in Dothan

Think of it as the American Idol of automotive graphic design.

That’s the best way to describe a contest featuring three Scions customized by local high school students.

Toyota of Dothan is offering $10,000 to the high school whose Scion is chosen by voters as the best customized design.

The contest started with students from a dozen local high schools submitting their designs. The best three were chosen and their designs were used to customize three Scions by Epic Wraps, a Panama City, Fla., graphic design company.

Alicia Kessel, of Rehobeth High School, designed a music themed Scion.

“I drew the piano part first and then used my favorite colors,” she said.

Northview High School students Alex Anderson and Justin Fuqua took a different path with their car, creating a design that made use of lightning bolts and hands. Anderson said the design represented environmental problems and personal turmoil.

“We tried to think out of the box with this,” Anderson said. “You want to attract attention when you’re driving and a streak is one way to stand out.”

Karina Garnaga, a Russian exchange student at Dothan High School, took a classical approach to her design, incorporating famous landmarks from cities around the world into her design.

“As an exchange student, I wanted to represent not only my country but also all the most famous sites in the world.”

Mike Schmitz, co-owner of Toyota of Dothan, said he was pleased with the opportunity the contest gave students to use their talents.

“I think it’s good that we can promote arts as well as football,” he said.

Cathy Sedberry, Toyota of Dothan marketing manager, said the store used the Scions because they’re a popular youth-oriented brand. Customization of Scions has become common, with many of the vehicles being displayed at car shows.

“They’re very unique, they look different, and all kids want to be different,” she said.

The three Scions will be on display at Toyota of Dothan until Oct. 9. After that, they’ll be at Wiregrass Commons Mall until Oct. 17.

To vote for one of the vehicles, text “Wonders” to 83895 for the Dothan High car, “Electric” to 83895 for the Northview car, and “Harmony” to 83895 for the Rehobeth car.