Fully Funded TOKAS International Creators Residency Program in Japan Open for Applications

Tokyo Arts and Space (TOKAS) is offering a fully funded International Creators Residency Program in Japan for the 2026-2027 sessions. This prestigious program provides artists from various disciplines with the opportunity to live and work in Tokyo for three months, immersing themselves in Japanese culture and advancing their artistic practice.

Opportunity Overview

The TOKAS International Creators Residency Program, supported by the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo, is designed to foster creativity and international exchange. Selected artists receive free accommodation, a daily living allowance, round-trip airfare, a project grant, and access to a shared studio space. The residency offers a unique platform for artists to showcase their work through exhibitions and engage with the local art community.

Residency Details

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

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

During the three-month residency, artists are expected to focus on their proposed project, participate in an OPEN STUDIO event, and submit a final report. The program aims to provide a supportive environment where artists can dedicate themselves to their creative pursuits without financial constraints.

Expert Perspective

Dr. Emily Carter, an art residency program director at the University of California, notes, "Residency programs like TOKAS are invaluable for artists seeking to expand their horizons and gain international exposure. The immersive experience of living and working in a different cultural context can significantly impact an artist's perspective and creative output. The financial support provided by TOKAS removes a significant barrier for many artists, allowing them to fully focus on their work."

Benefits of the Program

The TOKAS International Creators Residency Program offers numerous benefits to participating artists:

Private or shared accommodation in Tokyo Access to a shared studio space Round-trip airfare to Tokyo Daily living allowance of JPY 4,200 Project grant of JPY 300,000 Free internet access, library, and common areas Opportunities to exhibit work at TOKAS Open Studio and other exhibitions Dedicated time and space for artistic creation Exposure to the international art world Networking opportunities with artists from around the globe Immersion in Japanese culture, art, and life

Eligibility Criteria

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

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 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. Must not be enrolled as a student at the commencement of the residency (Ph.D. candidates are an exception).

Program Requirements

Selected artists are expected to adhere to the following requirements throughout the residency:

Remain at the residency for the entire three-month period. Create work for presentation during the OPEN STUDIO event. Submit a final report on the residency project. Participate in result presentations or other promotional events as requested by TOKAS. Refrain from engaging in paid or commercial work during the residency. Avoid activities that generate loud noise or strong vibrations. Only the selected artist is permitted to reside in the residency space.

How to Apply

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

Visit the official TOKAS website and download the Application Package and Manual. Carefully review all instructions provided. 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. Submit all documents before June 25, 2025, at 18:00 Japan time. Upon submission, TOKAS will provide a link within five working days to upload a 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.

Historical and Current Context

Artist residency programs have a long history of supporting creative development. The MacDowell Colony, founded in 1907, is one of the oldest and most well-known examples. Today, artist residencies play a crucial role in fostering international collaborations and providing artists with the resources they need to experiment and innovate. TOKAS contributes to this global network by offering a unique opportunity to engage with Japanese culture and the vibrant art scene in Tokyo.

Deadline The deadline for applications is 25 June 2025.

Official Link For more information and to apply, visit the official TOKAS website.