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.
Find Ruaidhri Ryan's work at the Royal Academy
Mosaic artist Ruaidhri Ryan whose playful pieces subvert expectations by drawing on advertising tropes, cinematic history, and visual culture, has had two works selected for this years Royal Academy Summer Exhibition.
‘FULLY CHARGED’ and ‘Blinds’ will be shown as part of the prestigious exhibition, which has been held every year since 1769 and is one of the largest open submission exhibitions in the world.
Ruaidhri Ryan, ‘FULLY CHARGED’ and ‘Blinds’.
Ruaidhri in his studio at Cockpit Deptford. Image by Shireen Bahmanizad.
Discover Ho Lai's new hand-built collaboration
Before moving to her studio at Cockpit Deptford, ceramicist Ho Lai trained as a potter in Hong Kong and produced tableware for a studio working with Michelin-starred restaurants.
In a recent interview, Ho shares her journey into ceramics and the inspiration behind her new hand-pinched tableware collaboration with Studio Supple. The rustic collection explores the rich history of folk craft traditions, the Japanese Mingei movement, and celebrates the everyday beauty handmade objects.
Ho Lai in her studio at Cockpit Deptford. Image courtesy of Studio Supple.
Kemi Ajose takes knitwear to Parliament
Knitwear designer Kemi Ajose recently took her work to the Houses of Parliament, where she spoke as part of the Lady Mayor’s Craft Livery Apprentice programme, sharing her journey into knitwear and textiles.
Reflecting on her path from athlete training to fashion, Kemi spoke about her experience being the first in her family to attend university, the awards and opportunities that shaped her career trajectory, and joining Cockpit in 2022. She also showcased a selection of knitwear — and even sold one of her knitted ties to a member of the Worshipful Company of Upholders!
Michèle Oberdieck makes the Charlotte Fraser shortlist
Glassworker Michèle Oberdieck has been selected from over 800 international applicants to be shortlisted for the Charlotte Fraser Glass & Ceramic Award.
Michèle specialises in blown glass inspired by natural forms and organic processes, exploring balance and asymmetry through shape, surface, and colour. Her Bird of Paradise-inspired hot sculpted piece, ‘Strelizia’ will make its debut at the shortlisted exhibition at Allen Hall Gallery in Norfolk later this month.
Michele Oberdieck, ‘Strelizia’.
Get creative this summer with a textile workshop
The long days of summer are the perfect time to learn a new skill! This July, Caitlin Maxwell Hughan returns with her beginner-friendly four-week Natural Dye & Foraging Course, exploring natural colour, plants, fibre, and foraging.
Looking ahead to September, Hannah Refaat, Kim Sutherland, and Joanne Lamb will be joining forces for a special weekend workshop as part of Selvedge Magazine’s London Textile Month, brining together embossing, weaving, and hand embroidery in a hands-on studio experience.
Photo courtesy Caitlin Maxwell Hughan.
Hannah Refaat, work detail. Photo by Alun Callender.
Calling all experienced makers! Our newest professional development programme is here
Cockpit’s award-winning Business Incubation Team presents Forge Ahead — a brand-new workshop programme for established makers looking to take their business to the next level.
Over 10 sessions, makers will gain the tools they need to elevate their business creatively and commercially and develop a strategic vision for sustainable, long-term success.
The first cohort begins on 23 September 2026. Learn more and register your interest here.
Yen Duong, studio detail. Photo by Lucy Emms.
Eleanor Lakelin, studio detail. Photo by Alun Callender.
Summer has officially arrived at The Cockpit Edit, with a fresh collection of handcrafted jewellery, fashion pieces, homeware, ceramics, and more — perfect for long summer days, thoughtful gifting, and bringing a touch of handmade to the everyday.
With Cockpit recently having been named one of ELLE Decoration’s coolest design platforms for limited-edition homeware, this is not an Edit you’ll want to miss!
Bethany Williams, 'Hand Woven Waste Hat'.
Sally Lees, 'The Shallows Pendant'.
Ross Millar, 'Emerald & Diamond Twin Relic Ring'.
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