Great Britain has long and storied tradition of supporting arts and crafts. A modern example of this support is Cockpit Studios, a London-based organization dedicated to promoting crafts and supporting its up-and-coming practitioners.
Cockpit Studios was founded in 1986 with the mission to “give makers tools to build their businesses so they can focus on what they do best: making. From studio space to business advice, Cockpit is where careers in craft are made.”
About the origin of the studios’ name: one might think it refers to the control center of a plane; but, in fact, the reference is more literal. The Bloomsbury studio site is now located in what was a 18th century cockfighting arena. In 1745, the sizable space was taken over by a cabinet maker. Ever since, it has been a site for craft and making.
After close to 20 years successfully supporting makers, Cockpit opened its second location in Deptford and launched its pioneering business support program. (To learn more about Cockpit Studios, click here: https://cockpitstudios.org/)
Pamela Kelly
Left & Following Page:
Clunie Fretton
Photo
Courtesy of:
Clunie Fretton
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