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 seeking to immerse themselves in Japanese culture and advance their creative practice. The TOKAS International Creators Residency Program for 2026-2027 provides artists from diverse disciplines with the opportunity to live and work in Tokyo for three months, offering financial support, studio space, and opportunities for public engagement.

Residency Details and Benefits

The program, managed by TOKAS, a part of the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo, aims to foster international artistic exchange and provide a platform for artists to develop their work in a stimulating environment. Successful applicants will receive:

A private or shared room in Tokyo (shared for duos). Access to a shared studio space. 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. Access to free internet, library, and common areas. Opportunities to showcase their work at TOKAS Open Studio and exhibitions.

The residency is structured into three sessions:

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

Eligibility and Requirements

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

Reside outside of Japan. Possess at least five years of professional experience in their creative field (visual arts, design, architecture, or film). Demonstrate proficiency in English for effective communication with other artists and TOKAS staff. Be capable of independent living and self-directed creative work. Not be a student at the time the residency begins (with the exception of Ph.D. candidates).

Accepted artists are expected to:

Remain at the residency for the entire three-month period. Create work for presentation during the OPEN STUDIO event. Submit a final report on their project. Potentially participate in result presentations or promotional events. Refrain from engaging in paid or commercial work during the residency.

Historical Context and Program Significance

Artist residency programs have a long and rich history, dating back to the early 20th century. These programs provide crucial support for artists by offering them dedicated time, space, and resources to focus on their creative endeavors. The TOKAS International Creators Residency Program aligns with this tradition, recognizing the importance of international exchange and cultural dialogue in fostering artistic innovation.

Dr. Emily Carter, an art historian specializing in international residency programs, emphasizes the value of such initiatives. "Residencies like the TOKAS program play a vital role in the development of artists' careers. They provide a unique opportunity for artists to step outside their familiar environments, engage with new cultures, and develop their work in a supportive and stimulating context," she explains. "The financial support offered by TOKAS is particularly significant, as it allows artists to focus on their creative practice without the burden of financial constraints."

Application Process

Interested applicants should follow these steps to apply:

Visit the official TOKAS website to 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 letters of recommendation to apply_residency2026@tokyoartsandspace.jp with the subject line: Your Name – International Creator Residency Program 2026. After submitting the documents, applicants will receive a link within five working days to upload their portfolio. Create a portfolio as a single PDF file (maximum 6 A4 pages, under 10MB) showcasing past work, images, and links to videos or audio. Upload the portfolio using the provided link.

Expert Perspective on Cultural Exchange

Professor Kenji Tanaka, a sociologist specializing in cultural exchange programs, highlights the broader impact of initiatives like the TOKAS residency. "These programs are not just about individual artistic development; they also contribute to building bridges between cultures and fostering mutual understanding," he notes. "By bringing artists from diverse backgrounds together, TOKAS facilitates a valuable exchange of ideas and perspectives, enriching both the artists involved and the wider community."

Important Dates

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

Official Link

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