Must-see exhibitions in the Midlands

From the drawing of river-maps to the painting of sea murals, contemporary artist Shahana Rajani explores how these creative practices allow coastal communities across the Indus Delta in Pakistan. This act of drawing is a ritual to honour and protect these eco-systems that are disappearing in the face of climate catastrophe and destructive infrastructure.

Large portraits of seven Nottingham locals go on display at Nottingham Castle. Artist Anthony Donnelly selected and interviewed a group of people who have experienced migration, either directly or through their families, to celebrate their stories and achievements in the wake of such major life changes. From sporting achievements to creative accomplishments, these stories reflect our shared human experience, something that everyone can relate to.

Delve into the art of storytelling and its relationship with to the home in this major exhibition curated by writer Marina Warner. Historic objects, such as puppets and board games, are displayed alongside works of art to examine how different cultures across the globe have used creativity to tell stories, and what they reveal about our inner worlds.

Journey through the lived experiences of a South Asian family in Coventry in this immersive exhibition, telling their story from 1968 to 2010. Rooms from their house will be staged and decorated with personal items – such as photographs, posters, magazines and books. Hear their music, watch their television, and listen to their stories to learn about the family's connections with migration, activism, identity and culture.

Experience the first major survey of Guyanese-British artist Donald Locke, who moved to Britain in 1954 as part of the Windrush Generation. Over 80 works of art spanning five decades go on display, from his early ceramic works to his later large-scale paintings, addressing issues of history, colonial legacies and cultural identity.

Ever wondered what impact you have on nature? And how it has shaped you? Uncover our complex relationship with the natural world in this thought-provoking and surprising exhibition – where our penchant for dressing up our beloved pets is as equally considered as the rising mountains of trash that can be seen from space. And did you know? This exhibition will tour to Manchester, Newcastle, Norwich and London with Art Fund support.

Immerse yourself in fascinating and emotional stories about William Shakespeare's life that begun in, and was shaped by, Stratford-upon-Avon. Across five curated spaces, you'll journey through his life, work and words that have had a lasting influence on how we understand the human condition to this day.

Dive into Chinese history and identity with Renee So, a contemporary arts who makes playful ceramics and sculptural works that explore how our understanding of imperialist histories and non-Western cultures have been distorted.