Fully Funded TOKAS International Creators Residency Program Opens Applications for 2026-2027

Tokyo Arts and Space (TOKAS), a program of the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo, has announced the opening of applications for its prestigious International Creators Residency Program for the 2026-2027 period. This fully funded residency offers artists across various disciplines a unique opportunity to live and work in Tokyo for three months, immersing themselves in Japanese culture and furthering their artistic development.

A Gateway to Artistic Growth in the Heart of Tokyo

The TOKAS residency program is designed to provide artists with the time, space, and resources necessary to focus on their creative practice. Successful applicants will receive free accommodation, a daily living allowance, round-trip airfare, a project grant, and access to a shared studio space. The program aims to foster international collaboration and provide a platform for artists to showcase their work to a wider audience through open studio events and exhibitions.

Program Details and Structure

The residency program is divided into three sessions across 2026 and 2027:

May–July 2026 September–November 2026 January–March 2027

Artists are expected to reside in Tokyo for the entire three-month duration of their selected session. They will also be required to present their work during an OPEN STUDIO event and submit a final report upon completion of their project.

Expert Perspective on the Value of International Residencies

"International residency programs like TOKAS play a vital role in the development of artists and the global art community," says Dr. Emily Carter, an art historian specializing in international exchange programs. "These residencies provide artists with invaluable opportunities to engage with new cultures, experiment with different artistic approaches, and build lasting connections with fellow artists from around the world. The experience can be transformative, influencing their artistic vision and contributing to a more diverse and interconnected art landscape."

Benefits of the TOKAS Residency

Private or shared accommodation in Tokyo Access to a shared studio space Round-trip airfare to and from Tokyo Daily living allowance of JPY 4,200 Project grant of JPY 300,000 Free internet access, library access, and access to common areas Opportunities to showcase work at TOKAS Open Studio and exhibitions Immersion in Japanese life, art, and culture

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the TOKAS International Creators Residency Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be living outside of Japan. Possess at least five years of experience in their creative field (visual arts, design, architecture, or film). Be proficient in English. Be independent and capable of managing their daily life and creative work. Not be a student at the time the residency begins (Ph.D. candidates are an exception).

Duos are welcome to apply, provided that at least one member resides outside of Japan.

Application Process and Deadline

Interested applicants are required to download the Application Package and Manual from the official TOKAS website and carefully review the instructions. The application process involves completing Application Forms 1 and 2 in English and obtaining two signed and dated letters of recommendation from professionals or institutions in the art and culture field.

Completed application forms and letters of recommendation must be emailed to apply_residency2026@tokyoartsandspace.jp with the subject line: Your Name – International Creator Residency Program 2026.

After submitting the application documents, applicants will receive a link to upload their portfolio, which should be a single PDF file (maximum 6 A4 pages and 10MB in size) showcasing examples of their past work, images, and links to videos or audio.

The deadline for submitting applications is June 25, 2025, at 18:00 Japan time. The portfolio upload deadline is July 2, 2025, at 23:00 Japan time.

The Historical Context of Artist Residencies

Artist residencies have a long and rich history, dating back to the patronage systems of the Renaissance. However, the modern concept of artist residencies, with its emphasis on providing dedicated time and space for creative exploration, gained prominence in the 20th century. Organizations like TOKAS build upon this tradition, recognizing the vital role that residencies play in supporting artists and fostering innovation.

Program Requirements

Residency attendance for the full three months. Creation of work for the OPEN STUDIO event. Submission of a final project report. Potential participation in result presentations or other promotional events. Prohibition of paid or commercial work during the residency. Adherence to restrictions on noise and vibration levels. Residency space limited to the selected artist only.

A Word of Caution: Verify Before Applying

Scholarships Corner shares opportunity information for educational and public benefit. While we strive for accuracy and verify details from official sources, applicants are strongly encouraged to independently verify all information before applying. Scholarships Corner is not responsible for any loss, damage, or consequences resulting from the use of this information or participation in any listed programs.

Official Link For more information and to access the application materials, please visit the official TOKAS website.