CVAN EM’s 2026 Annual General Meeting, held on Thursday 26 March at Leicester Print Workshop, brought together artists, arts workers and organisations from across the East Midlands for an evening of reflection, dialogue and connection.
Taking place at a pivotal moment for the visual arts sector, both regionally and nationally, the AGM provided an important opportunity to consider the wider context shaping our work. With Arts Council England’s current review underway and the evolving role of Combined Authorities influencing cultural strategy and investment, the event created space to collectively reflect on the present and look ahead to the future of the sector.
Hosted in partnership with Leicester Print Workshop, the AGM built on the legacy of CVAN EM’s Annual Forum, continuing its role as a key moment in the region’s cultural calendar. The evening combined presentation, discussion and participatory activity, supporting a shared exploration of the opportunities and challenges facing the East Midlands visual arts ecology.
AGM Presentation: Colette Griffin
In this session, CVAN EM Director Colette Griffin outlines CVAN EM’s vision, values and strategic role within the wider Contemporary Visual Arts Network, alongside its partnership with New Art Exchange. The presentation reflects on key activity and learning from 2025–26, and introduces priorities, plans and programming for 2026–27, setting out a framework for the organisation’s next phase of development.
Creative Activity and Networking
A central part of this year’s AGM was a participatory printmaking activity led by artist and CVAN EM Steering Group member Mandeep Dhadialla, with live visual documentation by Kelly Bond.
Using flowers as a visual and symbolic device, attendees were invited to contribute reflections on key questions shaping the sector: what is working well, what challenges are being faced, where opportunities lie, and how CVAN EM can best support the region moving forward.
The resulting collective responses highlight both shared concerns and areas of strength across the East Midlands visual arts community. Contributions reflected the importance of networks and collaboration, while also drawing attention to ongoing challenges including access to affordable space, regional isolation, and the need for sustainable career development.
Alongside the printmaking activity, the evening provided space for informal networking and conversation, reinforcing the AGM’s role as a platform for connection and exchange.
Looking Ahead
The insights, reflections and contributions shared throughout the evening form part of an ongoing dialogue that will inform CVAN EM’s future work. As the organisation moves into a new phase of leadership and development, these conversations are vital in ensuring that its activity remains responsive, inclusive and rooted in the experiences of the region’s visual arts community.
We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who attended and contributed to the event, and to our partners and collaborators who made the evening possible.
Credits
CVAN EM AGM 2026 was hosted in partnership with Leicester Print Workshop.
Filming: Robert Alexander Films
Photography: Walshy Pictures
Live illustration: Kelly Bond (13 Bends Design)
Printmaking facilitation: Mandeep Dhadialla