Awards and bursaries

Weavers’ Award

Sponsor

About

This one-year award is designed to support weaver makers who are looking to develop their craft and business.

What's included?

  • Subsidised studio space for a year within the creative community at Cockpit London , with an anticipated start date of 1st September
  • Business and professional development including on-site coaching, workshops and seminars  
  • Networking, selling and promotional opportunities, including twice-yearly Open Studios
  • Opportunities to collaborate with other craftspeople in the Cockpit community  
  • Financial contribution required by makers: £500 per year (approx. £42 per month)

Who can apply?

Weave makers at any stage of their creative practice who demonstrate a dedication to developing their craft and business.

Please note: We only accept one application per applicant per each award round.

About The Weavers' Company

The Weavers’ Company is the oldest livery company in the City of London. Originally established as a medieval trade guild, it played a crucial role in regulating and promoting the weaving industry by overseeing apprenticeships, maintaining high standards, and protecting the interests of weavers. Today, the Company continues to support the textile industry, including co-hosting the annual “Making It in Textiles” conference collaborating with other livery companies, designed to assist final-year students considering a career in the industry.

 

About Awards & Bursaries at Cockpit

We encourage prospective applicants to attend an Awards Open Day to visit the studios, meet the Cockpit team, and find out more about our awards and bursaries. Attending is not essential to apply but can be a helpful way to understand whether Cockpit is the right environment for your practice. Book a place at our next Awards Open Day here. Booking is required and places are limited. 

All awards and bursaries at Cockpit include subsidised shared studio space, business support, and membership in a vibrant craft community, giving successful makers the space and time to develop their profile, grow their business or practice, and increase profitability. We are looking for applicants who demonstrate entrepreneurial spirit, creative excellence, and highly developed craft skills. 

Please note: 

  • You will be responsible for arranging and paying for your own public liability insurance (minimum £5m) and contents insurance before the start date. 
  • You need to be entitled to remain in the UK for the period of the Award. Cockpit is unable to sponsor or support visa applications. 
  • You must be committed to taking up the Award and staying for its duration, completing our Business Incubation programme for new joiners, as well as engaging with business support throughout your time at Cockpit. 
  • We may review your commitment to the Award annually by an interview process. 
  • At the end of your award period, you will be able to make an application and interview for a standard studio to stay on at Cockpit. 

Current awardee: Shannon Swinburn

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