Taking Melbourne’s unsung icons and ‘making them iconic’.

Natasha Skunca founded Make Me Iconic after returning to Melbourne after a 10-year stint in Europe.

“Immediately we fell in love with the city again,” she explains. “How could you not? The city has so much to offer that’s unique, stylish and contemporary. We wanted something in our home that brought those elements to life.

“Sadly, there was nothing to be found. We had great souvenirs from London, but nothing to represent Melbourne – the city we grew up in and once again call home.”

So began the task of identifying, researching and representing Melbourne’s icons in a series of quirky products including mugs, tea towels, cushions and prints.

 

Mugs and Natasha with Cushions

“The name Make Me Iconic came about from the idea of turning everyday landmarks into icons. It was almost like these icons were begging me to make them famous again,” Natasha says.

 

It seems Natasha has heard the call from Sydney’s icons too as she plans to launch a Sydney range soon.

Core to the concept is what Natasha calls ‘Urban Education’. “I knew what some of the icons of Melbourne were, but I didn’t know anything about their history. When I did a bit of research and discovered their origin, I knew I had to share it with the locals and tourists alike.”

 

 

Make Me Iconic also makes a point of supporting students. All their designers are sourced from local universities and colleges, with a focus on skill and innovation over experience.

“We remember what it is like just starting out, trying to get your first break. That’s why we want to give talented, young designers a chance.”

You can buy Make Me Iconic designs online or visit one of their stockists.

 

Make Me Iconic
makemeiconic.com

 

[lg_folder folder=”stories/2010/july_10/desire/make/make_gallery” display=”slide”]