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

Tokyo Arts and Space (TOKAS) is offering a fully funded residency program for international artists, providing a unique opportunity to live and create in Tokyo. The TOKAS International Creators Residency Program 2026-2027 invites visual artists, designers, filmmakers, and architects from around the world to immerse themselves in Japanese culture and develop their artistic practice.

Selected artists will receive accommodation, a daily living allowance, round-trip airfare, a production grant, and shared studio space for a three-month residency. The program aims to foster cross-cultural exchange and provide artists with the resources and environment needed to realize their creative visions.

Program Details and Benefits

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

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

Participants will benefit from:

Private (or shared, for duos) accommodation in Tokyo. Access to a shared studio space. Fully covered round-trip airfare to Tokyo. A daily allowance of JPY 4,200 for food and living expenses. A grant of JPY 300,000 to support their art project. Free access to internet, library, and common areas. Opportunities to showcase their work at TOKAS Open Studio and exhibitions.

Eligibility and Requirements

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

Reside outside of Japan. Possess at least five years of experience in their creative field (visual arts, design, architecture, or film). Demonstrate proficiency in English for effective communication. Be independent and capable of managing their daily life and creative work. Not be enrolled as a student at the time the residency begins (with the exception of Ph.D. candidates).

Selected artists are expected to:

Remain at the residency for the entire three-month period. Create work for the OPEN STUDIO event and submit a final project report. Participate in result presentations or other promotional events as requested by TOKAS. Refrain from engaging in any paid or commercial work during the residency. Adhere to the residency's guidelines regarding noise levels and overnight guests.

The Significance of International Artist Residencies

International artist residencies, such as the TOKAS program, play a vital role in fostering global artistic dialogue and innovation. "These residencies provide invaluable opportunities for artists to break free from their usual environments and engage with new cultures, materials, and perspectives," explains Dr. Anya Sharma, an art historian specializing in contemporary art and cultural exchange. "This immersion often leads to significant shifts in their artistic practice and contributes to a richer, more diverse art world."

Historically, artist residencies have served as crucial platforms for experimentation and collaboration. From the MacDowell Colony in the United States, established in 1907, to the more recent proliferation of residencies worldwide, these programs have consistently supported artists in their creative endeavors. The TOKAS program builds upon this legacy by specifically focusing on international exchange and providing a supportive environment for artists to explore Japanese culture and its influence on their work.

Expert Perspective on Cultural Exchange

Professor Kenji Tanaka, a cultural anthropologist at Tokyo University, emphasizes the reciprocal benefits of such programs. "The TOKAS residency not only benefits the participating artists but also enriches the local art scene in Tokyo," he notes. "By bringing diverse perspectives and creative approaches to the city, the program fosters a dynamic environment for artistic innovation and cultural understanding. It's a valuable investment in the future of both the artists and the community."

Application Process and Deadline

Interested artists can apply by following these steps:

Download the Application Package and Manual from the official TOKAS website. Complete Application Forms 1 and 2 in English. Obtain two signed and dated letters of recommendation from professionals or institutions in the art and culture field. Email the completed forms and letters of recommendation to apply_residency2026@tokyoartsandspace.jp with the subject line: Your Name – International Creator Residency Program 2026. Upload a portfolio (maximum 6 A4 pages, under 10MB, in PDF format) using the link provided by TOKAS after submitting the initial documents.

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

This fully funded residency represents a significant opportunity for artists to advance their careers, engage with a vibrant cultural landscape, and contribute to the global artistic community. Applicants are encouraged to carefully review the application guidelines and prepare a compelling portfolio that showcases their artistic vision and potential.