Marimekko: Design Icon 1951 to 2018

Overview

Few labels have had the broad appeal and lasting success that Finnish design house Marimekko has enjoyed over the past six decades. Launching in a Helsinki restaurant in 1951, the label experienced a surge in popularity in the 1960s. Its bold prints and distinctive outfits were symptomatic of changes occurring at the time in both design and, more broadly, culture: liberation and defying expectation.

Now, to celebrate this legendary brand, a large-scale exhibition is coming to Victoria. It will run from March 3–June 11, 2018, at the Bendigo Art Gallery — its only Australian stop. Original sketches, fabrics and other archival material will track the label's story. The exhibition will also highlight the revolutionary artists behind the brands unique aesthetic and feature many examples of the fashion and homewares designs including the iconic red 'Unikko' poppy print.

For true enthusiasts, a number of events have been scheduled to coincide with the three-month residency, including talks by exhibition designer Megan Atkins and senior curator Leanne Fitzgibbon. On Saturday, April 14, the gallery will also host a 60s-themed party — BYO glad rags and groovy moves.

Tickets to the exhibition are $15 and are available here.