Cockpit, as it is known today began in 1986 when Camden Recycling created five starter units in Cockpit Yard for young, unemployed makers. In the early 2000s, a second location in Deptford was launched with a pioneering business support programme. Cockpit has launched the careers of some of the biggest names in contemporary craft.
The Radcliffe Trust supported the Cockpit Radcliffe Emerging Maker Awards in 2021, which has been a fantastic success. The Radcliffe Trust has been a supporter and funder of Cockpit Arts with Craft Bursaries and Craft development Awards since 2010.
Patrizia Sascor (basketry) and Anilea Fidler-Wieruszewska (fashion and accessories) have benefitted from the Cockpit Radcliffe Emerging Maker Awards 2021 with subsidised studio space, opportunities to collaborate with other craftspeople in the Cockpit community, business and professional development including one-on-one on-site coaching plus workshops and seminars.
Sandi Mattioli, head of Development at Cockpit, states that Cockpit Arts hope very much to have the opportunity to continue this fruitful partnership with the Radcliffe Trust, benefitting amazing makers and their craft talent and skill. This Award funding focused on emerging makers given the particular challenges they face post pandemic.