TOKAS International Creators Residency Program Opens Doors to Global Artists in Japan

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 painters, filmmakers, designers, architects, and other creative professionals from around the globe to immerse themselves in Japanese culture and advance their artistic practice.

Fully Funded Opportunity for Creative Exploration

The program, run by TOKAS, a part of the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo, offers selected artists a three-month residency in Tokyo. Participants receive comprehensive support, including free accommodation, a daily living stipend, round-trip airfare, a grant for their creative work, and access to a shared studio space. The residency aims to provide artists with the time, resources, and environment needed to focus solely on their artistic development and engage with the vibrant Tokyo art scene.

Residency Details

Host Country: Japan Location: Tokyo Host Institution: Tokyo Arts and Space (TOKAS), Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo Residency Duration: 3 months Residency Periods:

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

Benefits of the TOKAS Residency

The TOKAS International Creators Residency Program offers a multitude of benefits designed to support and enhance the artistic experience:

Private (or shared for duos) accommodation in Tokyo. Access to a shared studio space. Fully covered round-trip flight to and from Tokyo. A daily stipend of JPY 4,200 for food and daily expenses. A grant of JPY 300,000 to support the art project. Free internet access, library access, and use of common areas. Opportunities to showcase work at TOKAS Open Studio and exhibitions. Dedicated time and space to focus on artistic creation. Exposure to the art world and networking opportunities. Cultural immersion in Japanese life, art, and culture.

Eligibility and Application Requirements

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

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 with other artists and TOKAS staff. Exhibit independence and the ability to manage daily life and creative work autonomously. If applying as a duo, at least one member must reside outside Japan. Not be enrolled as a student at the start of the residency (Ph.D. candidates are an exception).

Program Requirements

Selected artists are expected to adhere to the following program requirements:

Commit to the full three-month residency period without leaving. Create artwork to be showcased during the OPEN STUDIO event. Submit a final report on the completed project. Participate in result presentations or other promotional events as requested by TOKAS. Refrain from engaging in any paid or commercial work during the residency. Avoid activities that generate loud noise or strong vibrations. Only the selected artist(s) may reside in the residency space; guests are not permitted.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should follow these steps to apply for the TOKAS International Creators Residency 2026-2027:

Visit the official TOKAS website and download the Application Package and Manual. Carefully review all instructions. 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 recommendation letters to apply_residency2026@tokyoartsandspace.jp with the subject line: Your Name – International Creator Residency Program 2026. Submit all documents by June 25, 2025, at 18:00 Japan time. After submission, TOKAS will provide a link within five working days to upload the portfolio. Create a portfolio as a single PDF file (maximum 6 A4 pages, under 10MB). Include examples of past work, images, and links to videos or audio. Upload the portfolio using the provided link by July 2, 2025, at 23:00 Japan time.

TOKAS Program Deadline: June 25, 2025.

The Significance of International Artist Residencies

Dr. Anya Sharma, a professor of Art History specializing in international cultural exchange programs, emphasizes the importance of residencies like the TOKAS program. "These residencies are crucial for fostering cross-cultural understanding and artistic innovation. They provide artists with invaluable opportunities to step outside their familiar environments, engage with new cultures, and challenge their creative boundaries. The impact extends beyond the individual artist, enriching the global art community as a whole."

Furthermore, considering the historical context of artistic exchange, initiatives like TOKAS contribute significantly to the ongoing dialogue between Japan and the global art scene. "Historically, Japan has both absorbed and influenced artistic movements worldwide," notes Kenji Tanaka, a cultural critic specializing in contemporary Japanese art. "The TOKAS program ensures that this exchange continues, allowing international artists to experience firsthand the unique artistic landscape of Tokyo and contribute their own perspectives to the evolving narrative of Japanese art."

The TOKAS International Creators Residency Program represents a significant opportunity for artists seeking to expand their horizons, engage with a new culture, and advance their artistic careers. By providing comprehensive support and a stimulating environment, TOKAS empowers artists to create impactful work and contribute to the global art community.