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, is now accepting applications for its prestigious International Creators Residency Program for the 2026-2027 sessions. This fully funded residency offers artists from around the globe the opportunity to live and work in Tokyo for three months, providing them with the resources and environment to develop their artistic practice and engage with Japanese culture.

An Opportunity for Global Artists

The TOKAS residency is designed for visual artists, filmmakers, designers, and architects with at least five years of experience in their respective fields. Successful applicants will receive a comprehensive package including free accommodation, a daily living allowance, round-trip airfare, a production grant, and access to a shared studio space. The program aims to foster artistic exchange and provide a platform for artists to showcase their work through exhibitions and open studio events.

Residency Details

The residency program offers three distinct sessions across 2026 and 2027:

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

During their stay, residents are expected to dedicate their time solely to their artistic projects, culminating in a presentation of their work to the public. This immersive experience allows artists to delve into their creative process while simultaneously experiencing the vibrant art scene and rich cultural heritage of Tokyo.

Expert Perspective: The Value of International Residencies

Dr. Anya Sharma, an art historian specializing in international artist residencies, emphasizes the significance of such programs. "Residencies like the TOKAS program are invaluable for artists seeking to expand their horizons and gain new perspectives," she explains. "The opportunity to immerse oneself in a different culture, engage with fellow artists from diverse backgrounds, and access resources that may not be available at home can be transformative for an artist's development. Moreover, these programs contribute to cross-cultural understanding and promote international collaboration within the art world."

Benefits of the TOKAS Residency

The TOKAS International Creators Residency Program offers a range of benefits designed to support artists throughout their stay:

Private or shared accommodation in Tokyo Access to a shared studio space Round-trip airfare to Tokyo Daily living allowance of JPY 4,200 Production grant of JPY 300,000 Free internet access, library, and common areas Opportunities to exhibit work at TOKAS Open Studio and exhibitions Networking opportunities with other artists and art professionals

Eligibility Criteria

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) Demonstrate proficiency in English for effective communication 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)

Program Requirements

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

Commit to staying at the residency for the full three-month period Create work to be showcased during the OPEN STUDIO event Submit a final report on their project Support TOKAS’s promotion of their work Refrain from engaging in any paid or commercial work during their stay Adhere to restrictions on activities that create loud noise or strong vibrations Residency space is exclusively for the selected artist; no guests are allowed

How to Apply

Interested artists can apply for the TOKAS International Creators Residency Program by following these steps:

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, TOKAS will provide a link to upload the applicant's portfolio Create a portfolio as a single PDF file (maximum 6 A4 pages, under 10MB) including examples of past work, images, and links to videos or audio Upload the portfolio using the provided link

Application Deadline

The deadline for submitting the application is 18:00 Japan time on June 25, 2025. The portfolio must be uploaded by July 2, 2025, at 23:00 Japan time.

Historical Context: Artist Residencies and Cultural Exchange

Artist residencies have a long and rich history, dating back to the early 20th century. Initially conceived as retreats for artists to escape urban life and focus on their work, residencies have evolved into platforms for international cultural exchange and artistic innovation. Programs like TOKAS play a crucial role in fostering global artistic dialogue and promoting understanding between different cultures.

Current Trends: The Growing Importance of International Collaboration

In an increasingly interconnected world, international collaboration in the arts is becoming more important than ever. Artist residencies provide a vital space for artists from different backgrounds to come together, share ideas, and create new work that reflects the complexities of our global society. As Dr. Sharma notes, "These programs are not just about individual artistic development; they are about building bridges between cultures and fostering a more inclusive and interconnected art world."

Official Link

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