The TOKAS International Creator Residency 2027 is a fully funded opportunity for international creators in visual arts, design, and architecture to live and work in Tokyo for three months. Participants receive airfare, living expenses, a creative project fee, and a private room, with a shared studio space to develop their work.
This program is organized by Tokyo Arts and Space (TOKAS), part of the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo. It aims to invite distinguished and highly motivated creators from around the world, offering them time and space to focus on their projects while exploring Japanese culture and presenting their outcomes at the OPEN STUDIO event.
TOKAS International Creator Residency Benefits
- Airfare (round-trip)
- Living expenses (per diem)
- Fee for creative work/project
- Living space (single room)
- Shared studio/workspace
- Opportunity to present work at OPEN STUDIO
TOKAS International Creator Residency Eligibility Criteria
- At least 5 years of experience in visual arts, design, architecture, or related fields
- Must not be a student at the time of residency (except PhD candidates)
- Able to communicate in English
- Independent and able to manage daily life and creative work
- If applying as a duo, at least one person must live outside Japan
Program Requirements
- You must stay at the residency for the full 3 months, without leaving.
- You are expected to create work that will be shown during the OPEN STUDIO event and submit a final report on your project.
- You may be invited to take part in a result presentation or other events, and you’ll need to support TOKAS’s promotion of your work.
- You are not allowed to do any paid or commercial work during your stay.
- Activities that create loud noise or strong vibrations are not permitted.
- Only the selected artist can live in the residency space. Friends, family, or guests are not allowed to stay with you.
How to Apply for TOKAS International Creator Residency?
- Download the Application Package from the official TOKAS website
- Read the Outline carefully and fill in the Application Form (PDF) using Adobe Reader
- Prepare two letters of recommendation from professionals in art and culture (signed and dated)
- Prepare a portfolio as one PDF file (max 6 A4 landscape pages, under 10MB)
- Fill in the Online Submission Form and upload the Application Form, recommendation letters, and portfolio
- Submit all materials before June 16, 2026, 18:00 JST
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the TOKAS International Creator Residency. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
Is there an age limit for the TOKAS International Creator Residency?
No, there is no age limit for application. The program is open to creators of all ages who meet the eligibility criteria.
Can I apply if I have participated in a TOKAS International Creator Residency before?
Yes, you can apply again, but if you have previously participated in the International Creator Residency Program or Local Creator Residency Program, you cannot apply for the same program again.
Am I eligible if I am finishing my master’s degree soon?
Yes, if you are not a student at the time of participation and have 5 years or more of experience in your specialized area, you are eligible.
Can I apply as a duo?
Yes, you can apply as a duo. However, living expenses and the creative work fee are offered for one person only. Airfare is provided for both members.
What is the format for letters of recommendation?
There is no specific format. The letters should state the relationship between the applicant and referees, and reasons for recommending the applicant to this program.
Can referees send recommendation letters directly to TOKAS?
No, TOKAS does not accept recommendation letters sent directly from referees. All letters must be uploaded via the Online Submission Form.
What facilities are offered to successful candidates?
Successful candidates receive a private room, shared studio space, free Wi-Fi, library access, and common areas. Details are available in the Outline and on the TOKAS website.
Will there be an opportunity to show my work at TOKAS?
The Open Studio is the official opportunity to present your research outcome. There may also be a possibility to participate in an exhibition at TOKAS Hongo in the future.
Can I travel around Japan during the TOKAS International Creator Residency?
Artists are expected to focus on their new project during the residency. If you need to stay outside the residency for project or research, you must consult in advance.
Can I bring my family or partner with me?
No, accommodation is offered only for the participating creators. Family members or partners cannot stay in the residency space.
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