May News
Come to our Open Studios 7-9 June Holborn; 14-16 June Deptford
This summer, discover a new way of shopping and sow the seeds of sustainability. All the beautiful, hand-crafted products pictured in our flyer below can be bought from Cockpit Arts. Scroll down to find out who made them, and where… http://www.cockpitarts.com/shopping-events
Box 1: Tangled Web Mini bowl with gold lustre detailing, from £22, and Fragile Fragment Tiny Bowl, from £12. Both by Timea Sido, Deptford Studio 102; Rosette ribbon necklace. £37. Aelska, Holborn Studio E2P; Marsh tea towel. £11.50. Amanda Ross, Deptford Studio 104; Bone China Love/Peace Birds. £45 for a pair. Yoyo Ceramics, Holborn Studio E16; Flying Pig magnet. £4.95. Sian Zeng, Deptford Studio 112; Paint Tube and Brush. £125. Katharine Morling, Deptford 205.
Box 2: Knitted textured stripe purse. £10. Zoe Miller/Tangent Accessories, Holborn Studio E14.
Box 3: Bright Yellow Buttercup Note Cards. Set of six £6.50. Jen Rowland, Deptford Studio 305; The Promise Cuff in 18ct Gold Plated Silver. £POA. Laura Gravestock, Holborn Studio E3. Vim & Vigour hand-printed A5 notebook. £5. SORT, Holborn Studio W8; Large strata necklace, silver with 18ct vermeil and labradorites. £550. Clara Breen, Holborn Studio W10; SpotMe badges. £10 for set of 3. Katie Barton, Holborn Studio E14; Parsley/Bay mug. £12.50. Amanda Ross, Deptford Studio 104; Earthenware Great Bustard Vase. £40. Lush, Deptford Studio 101.
Box 4: ‘Container ‘rings, fine silver and found paper. £165 each. Clara Breen, Holborn Studio W10; Fruit Spoon Rest/Tea Bag Tidy. £10 each. Yoyo Ceramics, Holborn Studio E16.
Box 5: Three lavender pockets. £24. Row Pinto, Deptford Studio 304.
Box 6: Cashmere eye mask lined with Liberty Tana Lawn fabric. £28. Row Pinto, Deptford Studio 304; Anatomical Hearts Print Pouch made from organic hand screen-printed cotton. £18. Fanny Shorter, Holborn Studio E2P.
Box 7: 3 glass leaves, usually part of a leaf cascade for stairwells or chandeliers. £20 each. Aline Johnson, Holborn Studio E2; Silver ‘boxcast’ ring with a cut peridot, 2 chrome diopsides, tourmaline chips and a green stone cluster. £560.00. Kelvin Birk, Holborn Studio E3; ‘Cat Guitar’ greetings card. £3. Naomi Ryder, Deptford Studio 305; ‘Big Beads’ necklace of varisite, agate and lava with oxidised silver fixings. £240. Lucy Martin, Deptford Studio 310; Egg Saucer, based on the 60s/70s melamine version and with a space for a spoon and salt. £10. Yoyo Ceramics, Holborn Studio E16.
Box 8: ‘Wonderings’ brooch, silver, smokey quartz, peridot, pearls and antique glass. £1,800. Ruth Tomlinson, Holborn Studio W1; Tropical Printed Lavender Cushion. Sold as gift set of 3, £25. Suzanne Goodwin, Holborn Studio E2R; Ditto the Hamster made from linen mix. £18. Terri Leahy, Deptford Studio 209; Cotton Bee-Garden cushion. £35. Lush, Deptford Studio 101.
Box 9: Wedding Table Tile, made to order. £14 each. Jo Heckett, Holborn Studio E16; The Classic Bow Tie in teal. £65. Ian Scott Kettle, Holborn Studio E2i; 20cm Ice/Steel flower made from duchess satin. £79. Lorna Syson, Deptford Studio 307; Ottoman Blaue Blume ceramic/earthenware container, painted and glazed by hand. £55. Amber Khokar, Deptford Studio 312; Small moulded leather bag. Laura Amstein, Holborn Studio E2H; Blue Butterflies Cuff. Hand dyed aluminium cuff printed with original drawings of butterflies. £40. Sally Lees, Holborn Studio E2F; Sphere ring. £15. Rentaro Nishimura, Holborn Studio E3; ‘Birds in Shade’ padded hand-printed A6 notebook. £18. Julie Kouamo, Holborn Studio E2; Three white 100% cotton handkerchiefs hand-printed with sardines in a tin. £15.95. Thornback & Peel, Holborn Studio W11.
Box 10: ‘The Crays’ Winkers resort shoes in 100% Irish Linen with exclusive print by Thornback & Peel. £150. carreducker, Holborn Studio E2G.
Design Originals, Crafted for Life
Visitors to our Open Studios are shopping for pieces that stand the test of time…
Hand-crafted collectables that last a lifetime – whether it’s a beautifully tailored coat or an exquisitely hand-forged silver vase – are becoming increasingly sought-after by today’s savvy shoppers. A recent luxury report by Ledbury Research quoted in Vogue found that consumers are ‘adopting a “less is more” mentality…focusing more on quality and good experiences.’ This is backed up by Cockpit’s own survey which looked at how visitors to our Open Studios shop (scroll down to read ‘Craft & Longevity at Cockpit’). Tired of the sugar-candy hit of mass-produced high-street buys, these shoppers are taking time to seek out products with a provenance and invest in quality design originals which they intend to keep for life.
One such shopper is Open Studios regular Anne Beresford, a film producer who lives round the corner from Cockpit’s Holborn studios. Anne has a few treasured pieces that she has collected from Cockpit designer-makers over the years, and told us why she finds them so satisfying: ‘I have a Justin Oh coat that is always admired wherever I go. And my Oyster card holder by him matches the lining of my coat! When people comment, I always say it came from round the corner. I am wearing earrings today that I bought from Maya, and I have one of the lovely silver bowls by Will Odell that I had as a birthday present. My husband is lucky enough to own a pair of carréducker shoes.’
‘All these are investment buys – whatever goes in my wardrobe has to earn its keep and stay there a long time. Everything I buy from Cockpit fits that brief.’
So why not come along to Open Studios to discover your own design original or ‘investment’ piece. Holborn: 7-9 June; Deptford 14-16 June
Pictured above, left to right: Cracked Vase by Will Odell, Top by Justin Oh, Deerskin shoes by carreducker
Craft & Longevity at Cockpit
Our Open Studios events are open to all and frequented by shoppers, stylists, design enthusiasts and craft collectors alike. This year we asked our shoppers to fill in a survey which highlighted a strong link between craft and longevity. When asked their reasons for buying craft, many factors were highlighted but an overwhelming 100% of shoppers stated that quality was important or very important. Over 95% felt that originality, style and supporting small independent businesses were also important or very important, 5% being unsure.
In relation to craft and longevity over 90% agreed:
- That they had items by designer-makers which they intended to keep for life
- They valued work by designer-makers over mass produced work and generally kept crafted items for longer than those that were mass produced
- They would rather invest in one well-made ‘long lasting’ piece than several cheaper more ‘disposable’ pieces.
Buying for longevity is more sustainable, something that we will be celebrating at our Open Studios this year.
April News
Bridal Party
Celebrate your special day and let our designer-makers at Cockpit Arts help you create a totally unique wedding. With fine jewellery, millinery, stationery, wedding favours and gifts for guests and bridal party all under one roof, it couldn’t be easier. Browse our dedicated Wedding Directory online , then arrange an appointment to visit a designer-maker in their studio. Many of our designer-makers also have an online shop. Or for a real treat, why not book a Private Shopping Tour of Cockpit Arts Holborn for you and your bridal party.
Images from left to right: Personalised Bridesmaid by Laura Long; Diamond Cluster rings by YEN; Millinery by Judy Bentinck.
March News
Easter Treats
Join Cockpit designer-makers for an Easter celebration and fill your home with beautiful hand-crafted designs that will last longer than your chocolate egg. Browse our Designer-Maker Directory online for more fresh ideas for your home.
Easter Bunny: Thornback & Peel Rabbit and Cabbage placemats make the perfect centre piece for your Easter table. Set of four melamine placemats, currently on sale £33.60.
Egg-static: Why would you start your breakfast with anything less? Egg cup by Yoyo Ceramics, £10.
Sitting pretty: A sure sign that Spring has arrived. Juneberry and Birds cushion by Lorna Syson, £44.
Follow our ‘Springtime Zing’ Pinterest board for more inspiration.
Mum’s the word
Treat Mum this mother’s day with original, handcrafted gifts from Cockpit designers.
Arm candy: For something extra special, you can’t go wrong with this classic cream leather and silk tote by Teresa Georgallis. £175.
Mini magic: Inspired by the texture of cut glass, these beautiful Shan Valla vases will look stunning arranged with Mum’s favourite spring blooms. Available in 5 shapes in white. £14 each, £35 for a mixed trio, or a mixed set of five for £50.
Charming: Add a touch of understated elegance to any outfit with this ‘Majestic’ bracelet by Laura Gravestock. £99.
For more ideas, visit our online shop at CultureLabel
February News
Shop Yellow
Inject some springtime zing with yellow accessories for you and your home. Here are a few favourites from our CultureLabel shop. A Rosette Necklace (£37) in canary yellow by äelska adds rays of sunshine to any outfit. Teresa Georgallis’ shoulder bag in hand-woven yellow Jacquard offers minimalist chic. Promise Cocktail Rings (£255) by Laura Gravestock sparkle with zesty Lemon Quartz. Golden Oriole birds are usually spotted in May, a sure sign that spring has sprung. This fabric sculpture (pictured, £195) by Abigail Brown is as pretty as the real thing. Julie Kouamo’s ‘Birds on Tree’ cushion (£55) glows with the warmest of sunset hues – perfect to snuggle up and dream of spring.
For more ideas why not visit our Mellow Yellow Pinterest board.
Experimental Gems
We are delighted to welcome two new designer-makers to Cockpit Arts this month, both bringing experimental directions to jewellery design. Rentaro Nishimura is an innovative product designer specialising in fabricating 3D objects from 2D materials. His work includes an innovative self-assembly ring, laser-cut from a single acrylic sheet, inspired by the Queen of Hearts from ‘Alice in Wonderland’. Art led jeweller Katrin Spranger (work pictured) was educated in the traditional field of a goldsmith’s craftsmanship and this remains an important part of her practice. Today Katrin uses jewellery as a way to communicate stories and reflect on socio-critical themes. Her approach often leads to collaborations with fashion designers, photographers and film makers.
Feel the Love
Feeling foxy? This feathered eye mask handmade from vintage lace, upcycled leather, Swarovski and silk by Holloway Smith Noir may tickle your fancy. £60
Hugs & Kisses: These delicate Written X O studs by Laura Gravestock make a pretty gift and are a pretty price too. £25
SpotMe! Pin a fun retro reflective badge with embroidered heart to your loved one and help them stay safe on their bike too. £10 for 3
For more inspiration and ideas you can also visit our Valentine’s Pinterest board.
January News
New Year Resolutions
Brighten up January with three colourful resolutions…
1. Keep note of exciting things to do and see, so you have help at hand to cheer up dull days. Books by Kethi Copeland (left), Julie Kouamo (centre) and Fanny Shorter (right) are perfect for jotting down inspiring ideas.
2. Banish grubby old tea towels from the kitchen and replace with fun and fanciful designs by Camilla Meijer, Thornback & Peel and Lush Designs. It just feels good.
3. Treat yourself! Weave some colour into your wardrobe with a bold accessory by äelska, Pinaki Studios or Constructive Studio.
December News
Missed Our Christmas Open Studios?
Do not fear! You can still buy beautiful Christmas gifts by many of our designer-makers on our new CultureLabel online shop.
Or search our designer-maker directory and see which designer-makers also have their own online shops.
For some Christmas Open Studios style inspiration peruse our photos by Jamie Trounce from the on Flickr and view our Open Studios film by Louise Rivett on You Tube.
Weave your way to Deptford Open Studios
The looms are hot in the weavers’ studio at Deptford, spinning beautiful yarns in time for our Christmas Open Studios. Laura Adburgham (work pictured) will be launching brand new collections at the event – so make sure you pop along from 7-9 December for a first look…
November News
Holborn Open Studios!
The tree is lit, the halls are decked and Cockpit Arts designer-makers are busy getting their studios ready to welcome you all to Open Studios. Our biggest shopping event of the year is not to be missed, with over 165 designer-makers selling gorgeous hand-made products over two weekends.
Work pictured left to right: James Lethbridge, Lucy Martin, Laura Amstein
CultureLabel’s Christmas Selection: Stocking Fillers
To complete our round-up of some of the gorgeous treats that will be on offer at Open Studios this winter, CultureLabel’s head buyer Tina Surelia selects those little extras that make all the difference. So why not pop along to Holborn from 30 Nov – 2 Dec or Deptford from 7-9 Dec to meet the designers in person and shop from a huge selection of jewellery, ceramics, glass, fashion, homewares and designer accessories.
Santa’s little helpers have done well… From left: Create your own Office Bear by Sian Zeng. ‘What an amazing craft kit with such a brilliant outcome. I have so many friends who’d love this in their stocking this year. A perfect activity for a cold winter’s day.’ The bear kit contains everything you need to make a cute office bear. Price: £14.95.
Middle: Tiny snowflakes by sjm*. ‘I love these – a delicate addition to your Christmas tree proving that less is more.’ Handmade porcelain decorations. Price: £15 for set of 4.
Right: Black Initial Bauble by Jo Heckett. ‘These beautiful baubles are a really smart way to personalise any occasion, not just Christmas.’ Porcelain hand painted with real gold lustre, strung with antique metal thread. Price: £9.
CultureLabel’s Christmas Selection: Designer Home
Deck your halls with so much more than holly… From left: Magnetic Woodlands Wallpaper by Sian Zeng. ‘Playful yet functional, this magnetic wallpaper is such a unique idea and a brilliant way for kids to create their own ‘magical’ scenes rather than drawing on walls!’ Wallpaper width: 52cm; Length per roll: 10m; Repeat size: 53cm half drop; Magnet receptive liner: 61cm width (no pattern repeat) 2x5m roll a total of 10m. Price: £248.00.
Middle: Double Sided Grey/Pink Cushion by Constructive Studio. ‘This striking cushion is so on trend this season, a perfect gift for a fashionista who loves her home!’ Digital print on cotton/linen mix. Each side has a different design. Removable cover. Price, 40cm: £50.
Right: ‘Iain Drinks Tea’ Bone China Coupe Plate by Naomi Ryder. ‘Naomi has struck the perfect balance of delicate lines on ceramic without looking too fragile, definitely one for a collector this Christmas.’ Illustration taken from one of Naomi’s embroidered artworks. 27cm diameter. Price: £30.
CultureLabel’s Christmas Selection: True Gent
Fabulous bespoke products that even the pickiest of urban gents is sure to fall for… From left: Large Teal Aztek Bow Tie by Constructive Studio.‘The bright colours in this tie are perfect for the Christmas party season – just right for the gentleman who loves to stand out in a crowd.’
Engineered Bow Tie, 100% cotton. Teal with Black Aztec print and Orange flash. Pre-tied with clip strap. Packaged in gift box. Price: £56.
Middle: Lucifer Air India Lapel Pin by Petra Bishai. ‘I love the idea behind this lapel pin and what amazing presentation – it’s great to see so many great new designs coming through for men this Christmas.’
Silver and 18ct gold gilt – sold with matchbook. Part of a collection of one-off, limited edition retro matchboxes and matchbooks, containing matchsticks that are wearable pieces of jewellery. Price: £95.
Right: ‘Pleased to Meet You’ by Ruth Martin. ‘This is such a loveable and memorable piece – a brilliant little keepsake that I’d always keep up on display at home.’
Hand printed double concertina book. Price: £20.
CultureLabel’s Christmas Selection: Luxe Style
From left: Paper Yarn Bag by Catarina Riccabona. ‘This is such a great use of material and I love the simple pattern, the perfect winter accessory for winter coats and boots.’ Limited-edition hand-woven paper yarn and raffia with natural linen lining, 42cm x 28cm. Price: £150.
Middle: Brain Design Notebook by Fanny Shorter. ‘I love the anatomical concept behind Fanny’s patterns and the way she applies this to everyday objects. A true reminder of the beauty of human beings.’ Hand screen printed and bound. Price: £14.
Right: Black iPad Bag by Nette Leather Goods. ‘This iPad sleeve has such a chic and sophisticated style – the perfect gift for hardworking design addicts.’ Price: £120.
New Online Shop Launches
Launching this week, our brand new online shop with CultureLabel.com will bring you gorgeous goodies from a selection of Cockpit Arts makers at the click of a mouse. To celebrate, we asked CultureLabel’s head buyer Tina Surelia to choose her favourite gifts for a designer Christmas. All of CultureLabel’s picks will be featured in a special showcase at our Christmas Open Studios, but meanwhile whet your appetite with a selection of the fabulous designs now available online…
CultureLabel’s Christmas Selection: Treasure Trove
All that glitters is gold… CultureLabel’s head buyer tells us why she hopes to find these little gems under her tree this Christmas. From left: Gold tear drop earrings by Jennifer Kidd. ‘These statement earrings are top of my list this year, a really refreshing change to all things geometric and angular.’ 18ct gold plate on silver. Price: £95.
Middle: ‘Gold Rust’ lapis lazuli necklace by MAYA. ‘I have fallen in love with all of Maya’s collection – her pieces are such simple shapes and so wearable.’ 18ct gold with lapis lazuli. Price: £1,200.
Right: Mini star rings by Rachel Galley. ‘These have a great finish and are such great adornments for the Christmas season – I’d love to wear one on Christmas Day (hint hint).’ Price: Silver £75, Gold plated £99.
October News
Save the Date
Things are hotting up behind the scenes in preparation for our Christmas Open Studios shopping extravaganza. This is a great opportunity to come and shop for gorgeous, bespoke gifts direct from our designer-makers, or talk to them face to face about a special commission. Never commissioned a work of art before? Then we’ve got a step-by-step guide to help you on the road to happy commissioning. Work pictured: Julie Kouamo.
Take the Tour
The lucky winner of our Made in London Tour competition, that we ran during the London Design Festival, came along on 17 October to claim her prize. Eleanor Holton (pictured) and a group of her colleagues from Fitch design were treated to a VIP tour of Cockpit Arts’ Holborn studios. So why not book your own private shopping tour for you and your friends or colleagues? Tours start from £300 for a group of 10 guests. Picture by Jamie Trounce.