Tokyo Arts and Space, popularly known as TOKAS, has officially opened applications for the TOKAS International Creator Residency Program 2027 in Japan. This prestigious fully funded residency invites talented international creators from across the world to live and work in Tokyo while developing new artistic ideas, research, and collaborations. The residency is designed for artists, designers, architects, and visual creators seeking a vibrant cultural environment that supports experimentation and global exchange.
Japan continues to attract creatives because of its unique blend of tradition, innovation, and contemporary art culture. Through this residency, selected participants will receive accommodation, airfare support, living expenses, and project funding while staying in Tokyo for three months. The program gives artists the freedom to focus entirely on their creative process while engaging with local and international communities.
The TOKAS residency is managed by Tokyo Arts and Space, a division associated with the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo. Over the years, the program has hosted creators from different parts of the world and helped them expand their professional networks while exploring Japanese culture and artistic practices.
About the TOKAS International Creator Residency Program 2027
The International Creator Residency Program is aimed at highly motivated creators working in fields such as visual arts, design, architecture, photography, media art, sculpture, installation art, sound art, performance art, and video creation. The residency provides a supportive environment where artists can research, create, and present new work inspired by their time in Tokyo.
Participants are encouraged to interact with fellow residents and the local creative community. At the end of the residency, creators present their research or artistic outcomes during TOKAS-organized events, including open studio exhibitions.
The residency is conducted in Tokyo, one of the world’s most exciting cities for contemporary culture, technology, architecture, and design. Artists can explore museums, galleries, creative neighborhoods, and cultural spaces while developing their projects.
Benefits
The TOKAS International Creator Residency Program is fully funded and offers several financial and professional benefits to successful applicants. Selected participants will receive:
- Fully furnished single-room accommodation
- Shared studio space for creative work
- Round-trip economy-class airfare to Tokyo
- Daily living allowance of JPY 4,200
- Project or production grant worth JPY 300,000
- Access to networking opportunities and cultural exchange activities
- Opportunities to showcase work during open studio events
- Exposure to Japan’s contemporary art and design ecosystem
The program removes major financial barriers for artists and allows them to concentrate on their creative development.
Duration
The residency lasts for three months. Applicants can choose from the following residency periods:
- May 2027 to July 2027
- September 2027 to November 2027
- January 2028 to March 2028
A total of six creators will be selected, with two creators hosted during each residency period.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the TOKAS International Creator Residency Program 2027, applicants must meet several eligibility requirements. Candidates should:
- Reside outside Japan
- Have at least five years of experience in their creative field
- Work in visual arts, design, architecture, or related disciplines
- Be capable of communicating in English
- Be independent and able to work collaboratively within a shared environment
- Demonstrate strong motivation and commitment to creative exchange
The program particularly values creators who are open to cultural interaction and experimentation in a new environment.
Why Artists Should Apply for the TOKAS Residency
The TOKAS residency is more than just financial support. It provides creators with time, space, and inspiration in one of Asia’s leading cultural hubs. Tokyo’s creative landscape combines futuristic innovation with centuries-old traditions, offering artists a rare opportunity to explore new perspectives.
Many artists use international residencies to build long-term collaborations, strengthen portfolios, and gain international exposure. The TOKAS residency also encourages interdisciplinary exchange, allowing participants to connect with creators from different artistic backgrounds.
Artists interested in Japanese aesthetics, urban culture, architecture, technology, and contemporary visual expression will especially benefit from this experience.
Application Process
Applicants must submit their application materials online through the official TOKAS application portal. Required materials generally include:
- Completed application form
- Artist statement or project proposal
- Portfolio of previous works
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Supporting documents related to professional experience
Applicants should carefully prepare a compelling proposal that explains how their creative practice will benefit from a residency in Tokyo.
Because the program is highly competitive, strong portfolios and clear artistic goals are important for selection.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply is 16 June 2026
Late applications are typically not accepted, so interested applicants should begin preparing their materials early.
Apply here
Link: https://www.tokyoartsandspace.jp/en/archive/application/2026/20260430-317.html
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