Tokyo Arts and Space (TOKAS), under the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo, invites international creators to apply for its International Creator Residency Programme 2026. This fully funded opportunity supports six creators—two per session—in visual art, film, design, and architecture, providing resources and mentorship to develop new work in Tokyo. Sessions take place across three periods: May–July 2026, September–November 2026, and January–March 2027
About the Residency
The programme brings together artists from diverse creative fields to live and work in Tokyo for three‑month residencies, enabling concentrated development of artistic projects. TOKAS supports creative innovation and knowledge exchange, concluding each session with an Open Studio and Result Presentation at TOKAS Hongo
Financial Coverage / Benefits
Recipients benefit from a comprehensive package, including:
- Airfare (economy round-trip)
- Per diem allowance: ¥4,200 per day (~US$30)
- Creative work/project fee: ¥300,000
- Single‑room accommodation
- Access to shared studio/workspace
- Participation in Open Studio and Result Presentation events
This support ensures artists can focus fully on creative development throughout the residency.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following:
- Residency: Live outside Japan at the time of application
- Experience: Minimum of 5 years’ professional experience in visual art, film, design, or architecture
- Student status: Not currently a student, except for PhD candidates
- English proficiency: Sufficient to communicate with TOKAS staff and other residents
- Independence: Able to stay and work in Tokyo for the full residency period
- Collaboration: Duo applications accepted, provided at least one member resides outside of Japan
Application Requirements
To apply, prepare the following and submit before the deadline:
- Filled‑in application form (part of the Application Package)
- Artist statement, detailing background and project plan
- Detailed activity plan for the residency
- Portfolio showcasing relevant past work
- Resume/CV
- Two letters of recommendation
- If applying as a duo, submit two separate applications and letters as specified
Ensure all materials conform to TOKAS guidelines and are submitted by the specified deadlines.
Submission Deadlines
- Documents deadline: June 25, 2025 (18:00 JST)
- Portfolio deadline: July 2, 2025 (23:00 JST)
Late submissions will not be considered, so begin preparing well in advance.
Related:
- Fulbright US Student Program 2026-27 Fully Funded
- EU Engagement Scholarships at University of Strathclyde 2025-26 UK
- Eric Bleumink Fellowship Netherlands 2026 Fully Funded
How to Apply
- Download the official “Outline” and “Application Package” from TOKAS.
- Complete forms fully, including artist statement, activity plan, and creator CV.
- Attach required documents, including portfolio and recommendations.
- Submit both text and portfolio files to TOKAS Residency by the respective deadlines.
- Reach out with technical questions by email to contact_residency2025@tokyoartsandspace.jp by June 8, 2025
Residency Periods & Output
Sessions run:
- Period 1: May–July 2026
- Period 2: September–November 2026
- Period 3: January–March 2027
During residency, creators focus on their practice and conclude with presentations at TOKAS Hongo. Additional program participation may also be required.
Residency Summary
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Programme | TOKAS International Creator Residency 2026 |
Host | Tokyo Arts and Space, The Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo |
Residency Length | 3 months (May–July, Sept–Nov, Jan–Mar) |
Creators Awarded | 6 creators (2 per period) |
Fields | Visual art, film, design, architecture |
Benefits | Airfare, per diem, project fee, housing, studio access |
Eligibility | Experienced international creators (5+ years), PhD students eligible |
Deadlines | Documents: June 25, 2025; Portfolio: July 2, 2025 |
How to Apply | Download and submit application package to TOKAS Residency |
Why Apply?
- Fully funded creative residency in Tokyo, one of Asia’s leading cultural centres.
- Dedicated studio time and resources to develop new work.
- Professional stipends and travel support reduce financial burdens.
- Exposure and networking through Open Studio and presentation events.
- Engage with an international and Japanese creative community within TOKAS.
To apply, visit the official TOKAS page:
Application Package & Details:
https://tokyoartsandspace.jp/en/archive/application/2025/20250513-305.html (tokyoartsandspace.jp, bbk-sachsenanhalt.de, artrabbit.com, thecuratorship.wordpress.com, tokyoartsandspace.jp)
Prepare your application thoroughly, contact TOKAS with questions before June 8, and submit materials prior to June 25, 2025 (18:00 JST) and portfolio by July 2, 2025 (23:00 JST).