Our Maker Difference campaign launched in 2009. It generated a huge buzz and over 12,000 people registered their support. The Manifesto remains just as relevant today.
Manifesto
‘It is great to hear about the Cockpit Art’s Maker Difference campaign. When you come across something that is really pretty and special, the knowledge that it has been made locally and that you could even see it being created, gives you confidence that the UK is producing and will continue to produce wonderful work. The media would have people believe that we no longer create excellent products in the UK. Just because the focus is not on fridges and cars, it doesn’t mean that there are not hundreds of creative people working away, in studios like this, designing and making beautiful work, which is a complete joy to have’.
– Kirstie Allsopp
Microsite
The campaign was highlighted on a special Maker Difference microsite designed by I-D Media and you can still view the archive site. The quirky launch event in June attracted a host of celebrity guests, who signed our Maker Difference manifesto and got their hands messy throwing pots to help raise awareness.
Special Events
Other events throughout the year included special Maker Difference Open Studios. As well as all of the wonderful work on show, these were full of exciting happenings, tours, film screenings and activities which attracted a record breaking number of visitors through the doors at Cockpit Arts.
Pop up Studio
For the London Design Festival we brought Cockpit Arts to the masses, re-creating one of our studios in central London as a live and interactive installation. This pop-up studio, featuring letterpress printers SORT, provided a taste of what happens behind the scenes at Cockpit Arts to thousands of Carnaby shoppers.
Legacy
We are delighted that the Crafts Council is now taking up the Maker Difference mantle with their Craft Matters campaign – so please join up today.
‘People often ask me where I get my ties, even my shoes and socks, the answer is one of many craft outlets and shows. If you want to wear something distinctive, something hand crafted and thereby unique, craft studios like Cockpit, and craft shows across the country is where you find them. That’s why I strongly support Cockpit’s ‘Maker Difference’ campaign’.
– Jon Snow