In response to the global pandemic, Coventry and Warwick universities joined together to launch 'Coventry Creates' a project to support the local arts and cultural sector whilst also providing researchers with the opportunity to explore their work through an artistic lens. This culminated in an online digital exhibition showcasing both the research and the artistic responses. This event will discuss how these collaborations worked, the benefits to those involved and the lessons learned for closer collaboration between universities and their local communities.