CVAN WM’s mentoring programme provides free 1-to-1 support for visual artists and arts workers at different stages of their careers, creating dedicated time to work through opportunities, challenges and professional development goals.

Who is it for?

Mentoring is available to visual artists and arts workers living or professionally based in the West Midlands, at any stage of their career. Sessions are designed to respond to individual needs and can provide a useful space to develop ideas, test approaches and gain an external perspective. If you are unsure if mentoring with CVAN WM is for you, email colette@cvanwestmidlands.co.uk to find out.

What We Offer

Mentoring sessions are 45 minutes and take place online, with clusters of in-person sessions hosted at visual arts venues across the West Midlands at points throughout the year.

Sessions can focus on a range of professional development needs, including:

• Artist development and career planning
• Funding applications and open calls
• Commission and project proposals
• Networking and professional opportunities
• Artist statements and portfolios
• Developing ideas and approaches to practice
• Reviewing and proofreading applications, proposals or statements

When booking, you will be asked what you would like to focus on so that the session can be as useful and targeted as possible.

Accessing Mentoring

Mentoring slots become available quarterly, with bookings opening for the following quarter. You can view availability and book a slot via our mentoring scheduler. If there are no slots visible, we are currently fully booked.

Sign up to the CVAN WM mailing list to be notified when new sessions are released, or follow CVAN WM on Instagram for updates.