TOKAS International Creator Residency Program 2027
TOKAS International Creator Residency Program

TOKAS International Creator Residency Program 2027 in Japan (Fully Funded)

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The TOKAS International Creator Residency Program 2027 is a fully funded artist residency in Japan that brings international creators to Tokyo for a three-month project-based stay. It is hosted by Tokyo Arts and Space (TOKAS), which operates under the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo.

This residency is designed for artists, designers, and architects who want to develop new work through research, production, and engagement with Tokyo’s contemporary art environment.

If selected, participants receive full financial and logistical support, including accommodation, airfare, living allowance, and project funding.

Quick Overview of TOKAS International Creator Residency Program 2027

  • Host Country: Japan
  • Organizer: Tokyo Arts and Space (TOKAS)
  • Program Type: Fully funded artist residency
  • Duration: 3 months
  • Residency Periods:
    • May–July 2027
    • September–November 2027
    • January–March 2028
  • Application Deadline: 16 June 2026 (18:00 JST)

What is the TOKAS International Creator Residency Program?

The TOKAS International Creator Residency Program invites international creators to live and work in Tokyo for a short-term residency. The focus is on developing new artistic work while engaging with Japan’s cultural and creative ecosystem.

Selected participants are expected to use the residency period to:

  • Develop new creative or research-based projects
  • Work independently in a studio environment
  • Engage with Tokyo’s contemporary art community
  • Present outcomes through public programs such as OPEN STUDIO events

The program is competitive and typically selects a small number of creators per cycle.

Benefits of TOKAS Residency Program 2027

Selected participants receive full financial and practical support during their stay in Tokyo.

Financial Support

  • Round-trip airfare to and from Japan
  • Daily living allowance (JPY 4,200 per day)
  • Project grant (JPY 300,000 for creative work)

Accommodation and Facilities

  • Private room or shared accommodation (depending on application type)
  • Shared studio space for production work
  • Free internet access and common facilities

Program Support

  • Access to Tokyo-based art networks
  • Participation in OPEN STUDIO presentation events
  • Opportunity to present work to curators, artists, and the public
  • Cultural exposure through a long-term stay in Tokyo

Eligibility Criteria for TOKAS International Creator Residency

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum 5 years of professional experience in visual arts, design, architecture, or related fields
  • Must not be a student at the time the residency begins (PhD candidates are allowed)
  • Ability to communicate in English for day-to-day collaboration
  • Ability to work independently and manage daily life in Tokyo
  • For duos, at least one applicant must be based outside Japan

The program is focused on established or mid-career creative professionals with a clear artistic direction.

Residency Requirements

Selected participants must follow certain conditions during the program:

  • Stay for the full 3-month residency period
  • No paid or commercial work is allowed during the stay
  • Participation in OPEN STUDIO or final presentation is required
  • Submission of a final project report
  • Compliance with residency rules (no disruptive activities, no long-term guests)

The residency is designed for focused production and research work.

How to Apply for TOKAS International Creator Residency Program 2027

The application process is completed online through the official TOKAS website.

Step-by-step application process:

  1. Download the official application package from the TOKAS website
  2. Fill out the application form in English using Adobe Reader
  3. Prepare two letters of recommendation from professionals or institutions in the art field
  4. Create a portfolio in PDF format
    • Maximum 6 A4 pages (landscape)
    • File size under 10MB
    • Include images, project descriptions, and media links
  5. Submit all documents through the online application form
  6. Ensure submission before the deadline

Important Deadline

  • Application Deadline: 16 June 2026 (18:00 Japan Standard Time)

Late submissions are not accepted under any circumstances.

Why the TOKAS Residency Matters

The TOKAS International Creator Residency Program is one of Japan’s structured international residencies for contemporary creators. It provides time, space, and financial support for research-based and production-based work in Tokyo.

For many applicants, the main value lies in:

  • Access to Tokyo’s contemporary art ecosystem
  • Dedicated studio time without financial pressure
  • Exposure to international curators and peers
  • A structured environment for developing new work

Key Takeawys

The TOKAS International Creator Residency Program 2027 is a valuable opportunity for artists and designers seeking international exposure and focused production time in Japan. Applicants are advised to prepare strong portfolios and clear project proposals aligned with Tokyo’s cultural context.

Official Link to Apply

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