TOKAS International Creator Residency 2027 — residency in Tokyo with airfare, stipend and studio included
Three months of living and working in Tokyo, an international artistic community, and the chance to focus on a new project in one of Asia’s major cultural hubs. Tokyo Arts and Space (TOKAS) has launched an international open call for artists, designers and architects working in contemporary visual practices, research and interdisciplinary projects.
About the Residency
The programme takes place in Tokyo and is designed for artists who wish not only to have the time and space to work, but also to immerse themselves in a completely different cultural and visual environment.
The residency lasts three months and takes place in one of three periods: May to July 2027, September to November 2027, or January to March 2028. Each period accepts only two participants, so the programme remains intimate and focused on in-depth individual work.
TOKAS brings together artists from different countries and disciplines — ranging from painting, photography and installation to media art, sound practices, design and architecture.
The organisers emphasise that the programme is aimed at artists who are ready to exchange ideas, explore a new environment and interact with other residents. For many artists, it is precisely the combination of Tokyo, the international community and the extended period of work that is the programme’s main advantage.
What TOKAS offers
The residency fully covers participants’ basic expenses. The programme provides return flights to Tokyo, accommodation, a workspace, a daily stipend and a separate project grant. For international artists, this is one of the few Asian residencies where the support truly allows them to focus on their work and research, rather than merely partially covering the cost of their stay.
Participants are provided with a private room at TOKAS Residency, access to a shared studio, library, communal spaces and 24-hour internet.
The residency is located in Sumida-ku — one of Tokyo’s districts where the modern urban environment blends with local everyday culture.
Additionally, participants receive:
— a daily stipend of approximately €25 per day;
— a project grant of approximately €1,800;
— a workspace and the opportunity to participate in Open Studio.
Who is the programme suitable for
The residency is suitable for artists, photographers, video and media artists, sound artists, designers, architects and interdisciplinary artists. The programme may be of particular interest to artists interested in exploring the metropolis, Japan’s visual culture, technology, sound, urban space and international artistic connections.
To apply, you must haveat least five years’ professional experience in your field and be based outside Japan. Students are not eligible to apply, with the exception of PhD candidates. The organisers also note that participants must have a good command of English to communicate with other residents and the TOKAS team.
Why TOKAS is considered an important residency
Tokyo Arts and Space is one of Japan’s most renowned international art programmes.
For many artists, participating in TOKAS is not only a period of creative work but also a rare opportunity to forge connections with the Asian art scene, meet artists from different countries, and view their own practice through a completely different cultural lens.
The results of the residency are presented in the form of an Open Studio — an open presentation of the participants’ research and projects.
The programme emphasises not only the final outcome, but also the process of exploration, research and artistic experimentation. This is precisely why TOKAS is particularly valued by artists working with new ideas, interdisciplinary approaches and research-based practices.
How to apply
To apply, you must prepare:
— an application form;
— a portfolio of up to 6 pages;
— two letters of recommendation;
— a description of your project and a work plan for Tokyo.
The portfolio may include images, links to videos, audio files and publications. The organisers provide very detailed explanations of the technical requirements for the application, so it is best to prepare your documents in advance.
Applications can be submitted either individually or as a duo, provided the participants have already worked on joint projects. Please note that accommodation is provided only for programme participants — family members, partners and guests are not permitted to stay at the residency.
The deadline for applications is 16 June 2026.
