Kelly Thompson knows good design. From her own career as a fashion illustrator and photographer to a host of different creative collaborations and pursuits (just check our her old house that we previously featured), Kelly is a major supporter of local, independent design as well as a huge vintage shopper. In late 2018 she launched her online store, Makers Mrkt, as a way to bring together the art, homewares, and gifts she loved in one place. And for three weeks in December, Kelly has brought Makers Mrkt to life!

An unused space on Russell Street in Melbourne’s CBD has been completely transformed by Kelly, filled to the brim with her fab curation of small pieces from some of her favourite makers, as well as a selection of vintage furniture. In addition to pieces by designers including mobiles from Fellows Mobiles, glassware by Drew Spangenberg, ceramic pieces by Dryburgh Pottery, Kerryn Levy, Gidon Bing, and jewellery from Jasmin Sparrow (+ so many more) all the shop fittings and furniture are for sale! ‘Without having any furniture or shop fittings (or really any budget ready!) I reached out to Vlad from Peninsula Antiques e Moderno and asked if he’d like to showcase some of his stock in the city for a month and he said yes straight away!’ Kelly explains.

In the inevitable pre-Christmas scramble, Makers Mrkt is your one-stop-shop for thoughtful gifts that support the local design community. Look out for the big colourful window illustrations by Eirian Chapman and you’ll know you’re in the right spot. Also, it should be said that Kelly is a KILLER present wrapper – a service she offers in store!

Makers Mrkt Pop Up Shop
Until December 21st (or stock runs out!) 
Wednesday-Friday, 10am-7pm 
Saturday, 11am-4pm 
Closed Sunday – Tuesday
124 Russell Street
Melbourne CBD