Ode to the Midlands

Ode to the Midlands (OttM) is an ambitious 18-month, cross-regional programme delivered by Contemporary Visual Arts Network East Midlands (CVAN EM) and Contemporary Visual Arts Network West Midlands (CVAN WM). The programme invests in artists, organisations, and audiences across the Midlands, strengthening regional connections and expanding access to digital visual arts.

Rooted in equity, collaboration, and digital innovation, OttM supports Global Majority, Disabled, d/Deaf, and Neurodivergent mid-career artists to create new digital artworks that explore and celebrate the Midlands’ rich cultural and geographical identity.

Through partnerships with commissioning organisations across the East and West Midlands, OttM builds lasting relationships, supports sustainable artist development, and strengthens the region’s capacity for inclusive digital commissioning. Artworks will be presented online, in galleries, and in public spaces, widening access for diverse and time-poor audiences.

Ode to the Midlands is supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.