Every month, we bring you an update about what’s new and exciting at Cockpit. From stunning products to intriguing projects to inspiring brand partnerships, here are the latest developments from our makers.
Our newest maker Gemma Smale fires up at Shiro Oni Studio
Having recently built a traditional wood-firing kiln of her own, Gemma Smale is now spending six weeks in Onishi, Japan, taking part in a wood-firing residency at Shiro Oni Studio.
Working with fellow potters to load and fire an anagama kiln — one of Japan’s oldest wood-firing traditions — the resulting richly textured pieces will be shown later this month in a group exhibition with makers from around the world.
Meet Gemma in her studio at Deptford next month during Winter Open Studios.
Gemma Smale.
Gemma Smale, 'Furrow'.
Gemma Smale, 'In Two Minds'.
Jo Hayes Ward revisits silver in new collection
Before gold became Jo Hayes Ward‘s signature, her bench was filled with metals in every shade of grey — from aluminium and silver to stainless steel.
Now Jo is returning to her early material loves, exploring lighter metals that open up new possibilities. Her seasonal silver drop brings together reworked favourites and brand-new designs, all in her unmistakable architectural style.
Jo Hayes Ward, rings.
Jo Hayes Ward, 'Hex Button Ring'.
Karen Henriksen expands her practice to a new medium
Karen Henriksen, Cockpit milliner and multidisciplinary artist, has been carving out a new direction in her practice through a wood sculpture course at City Lit.
Her first piece, ‘A Delicate Line’, has been commended by the Russell Square Commissioners Sculpture Prize and will be shown at Brunswick Art Gallery. What began as a soft, draped form gradually evolved into a more ambiguous shape, echoing the curves of a female torso and reflecting Karen’s ongoing exploration of balance between strength and delicacy.
Karen Henriksen, 'A Delicate Line'.
Explore nature's palette at a workshop led by Caitlin Maxwell Hughan
If you’re looking to get hands-on and try something new this winter, bookings are now open for Caitlin Maxwell Hughan‘s natural dyeing and foraging workshops, exploring how plants, food waste, and regenerative materials can be transformed into colour.
Using materials sourced from Deptford and across the UK, create your own bandana, refresh an old garment, or take a deeper dive through Caitlin’s four-week foraging and dye course.
Caitlin Maxwell Hughan.
COMING 15 NOVEMBER - The Cockpit Edit: Gifts
Following September’s design-led debut, The Cockpit Edit returns with its second online drop featuring one-of-a-kind festive gifts.
This new collection brings together work from more than 35 Cockpit makers, celebrating the joy of giving through beautifully crafted pieces of jewellery, ceramics, glass, textiles, leather, and print. Each piece has been thoughtfully made by hand and would make a perfect unique and meaningful gift that will be treasured this festive season and for years to come.
The Cockpit Edit: Gifts opens on Saturday 15 November, with prices starting from £13.50. Start your festive shopping online, in advance of your visit to Winter Open Studios.
PAS-MAN, 'BECCA' bag.
Clara Breen, 'Bilbao' hoop earrings.
Row Pinto, 'Lonely Mountain' textured striped throw.
Meet the new faces of Cockpit just in time for Winter Open Studios!
Have you discovered your new favourite maker ahead of Winter Open Studios?
Meet the new faces of Cockpit – the seven makers and awardees who joined our community between July and September 2025. From jewellers and textile artists to weavers and furniture designers, they’re bringing new energy, fresh ideas, and lots of exciting new work to explore this season.
Shannon Swinburn, 'Cotton Silk Card'.
Morag Seaton, 'Boob Bag'.
Sonia Cheadle, 'Bridge Brooch'.
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