Jacob Monk is a textile designer with a woven specialism, having graduated from Central Saint Martins in London in 2016. He creates playful, contemporary designs for use in modern interior settings.
Passionate about the exploration of varied materials and techniques, Jacob creates hand- woven designs for a range of applications with a focus on using colour to give traditional techniques a playful, contemporary feel. He is exploring the traditional technique of Ikat, the process of creating pattern by binding then dyeing the warp yarns.
Like many makers Jacob faced challenges because of the pandemic, which impacted his plans. Exhibitions, which he had in place for year two on the Award, were all cancelled, and he moved back to Manchester temporarily, so did not have access to the studios.
A key success for Jacob during lockdown was developing paper-based woven pieces. This exciting product development resulted in direct sales from Instagram, and he is now investigating using dying paper yarn for future developments.
Jacob has and continues to work hard to develop his wall-based weaving work, refining and building his activities with a more strategic market research approach for future business planning, product development, and opportunities post-Covid.
What difference has the Cockpit / Clothworkers’ Company Award made to you, your practice, and your business over the last two years?
This Award allowed me to focus on my design and professional development without worrying about the costs of setting up a studio and investing in a loom so early on in my career. I have learned a lot about running a business from managing finances to setting goals, in a safe space with support whenever I needed it.
How has being at Cockpit affected the growth, development of your practice and business?
Being at Cockpit, I have had the chance to focus on my business model with the guidance of the business coaches. I am now thinking more about what my goals are and not just making for the sake of making.
Being around so many other independent makers at various stages of their careers and working in a range of disciplines has been a major source of inspiration at times when I have felt less motivated, particularly during lockdown.
Are there any other comments you would like to make about Cockpit and or the Award?
I have loved my time on this Award. The past two years have given me the space and support to focus on what I enjoy doing the most and what I am most passionate about turning into a career. I have expanded my creative network and made some great friends along the way!
Jacob is currently on the Clothworkers’ Award at Cockpit
The Clothworkers’ Award at Cockpit is designed to help three graduate weavers each year set up in business. Weavers can be working in any form, for example, making products, creating woven textile art, working with mills and/or making samples for industry. The Award is currently open for applications, find out more and apply here
The Award is currently open for applications and closes for deadline 25 April, head here for further info and to apply.
