About the Programme

Ode to the Midlands (OttM) is an 18-month, cross-regional programme delivered by CVAN East Midlands and CVAN West Midlands. It supports Global Majority, Disabled, d/Deaf, and Neurodivergent mid-career artists to create new digital artworks exploring the cultural and geographical identity of the Midlands.

The programme builds connections between artists, organisations, and audiences across the East and West Midlands, with work presented online, in galleries, and in public spaces. OttM is supported by public funding from the National Lottery through Arts Council England.

The Opportunity

OttM will commission six mid-career artists to develop a new digital artwork between April 2026 – March 2027.

Selected artists will:

• Be paired with a commissioning organisation in the neighbouring region
• Develop a new digital work (digital experience not required)
• Take part in mentoring, peer exchange, and professional development
• Present work online, in a gallery, or in public space

Digital work can include moving image, sound, interactive or web-based work, creative coding, AI, AR/VR, projection, or hybrid formats.