Pictured: Eleanor Lakelin – award-winning wood sculptor and former LOEWE FOUNDATION Craft Prize finalist whose work is held in significant private and public collections
This year, Cockpit Studios celebrates its 40th anniversary, marking four decades as one of the UK’s most influential charities for contemporary craft and making.
Since 1986, Cockpit has been quietly shaping the UK’s craft landscape, helping thousands of emerging and established makers to build sustainable careers through affordable studio space, wraparound business training and coaching, and the support of an inspiring and collaborative community of makers.
Cockpit is often called a hidden gem of creativity, housing compelling stories and craft businesses in two historic studio buildings tucked away in Bloomsbury and Deptford. But this social enterprise has been driving the craft industry forward both in London and internationally for decades – the current maker community includes 176 studio holders, while nearly 700 designer makers make up its esteemed alumni community, including some of the most renowned craftspeople, artists, and thought leaders in craft and design.
This 40th anniversary offers an opportunity to celebrate Cockpit’s history and recognise its achievements, with a year-long programme of events and activities highlighting the charity’s continued ambition to champion craft and making to a global audience.
The programme will include an exhibition featuring photography, video, and craft objects during London Craft Week; a festive celebration and auction during the annual Summer Open Studios; the launch of a new bursary supporting makers working in cordwaining; and other activity throughout the year.
At a time when celebrating physical craftsmanship feels especially significant, Cockpit is proud to be marking four decades as one of the UK’s most influential spaces for craft and making.
