Digital Residencies in Japan

AIR 3331

Tokyo, Japan

AIR 3331, based in the heart of Tokyo, Japan, is an Artist in Residence program that continues to thrive despite the closure of its parent facility, 3331 Arts Chiyoda, in 2023. Managed by Command A, an artist-run initiative, AIR 3331 immerses artists in the local community and offers a platform to cultivate creativity across various disciplines including visual and media art, design, performance arts, music, and architecture. The program, under the supervision of Masato Nakamura, a prominent figure in Japan's art scene, provides artists the unique opportunity to stay, create, and present their work in one of the world’s most vibrant cities, encouraging deep engagement with the local culture and art community.

Aomori Contemporary Art Center (ACAC)

Aomori, Japan

The Aomori Contemporary Art Center (ACAC) offers an Artist-in-Residence program titled "SPINNING SCAPES" that invites contemporary artists, curators, and researchers to engage deeply with their practices in a supportive and fully equipped environment. Located at the foothills of the Hakkoda Mountains in Aomori, Japan, the ACAC is celebrated for its distinctive architecture by ANDO Tadao and its integration into the lush local landscape, offering a unique space for creative exploration and public engagement. Residents at ACAC can participate in various lengths of stays, from two weeks to up to six two-week terms, depending on their project needs. The program is flexible, allowing for both in-person and remote participation. It encourages artists to immerse themselves in the local community and environment to inspire new "scapes" or perspectives within their work, whether through exhibitions, performances, or other collaborative projects. Key features include access to specialized workshops (engraving, silkscreen, ceramics, digital production, construction), a personal studio space, communal living areas, and exhibition opportunities. The residency is supported by a dedicated team, offering logistical, technical, and community engagement assistance, aimed at fostering meaningful cultural exchanges and expanding the artists' practices and visibility.

Art Center Ongoing

Tokyo, Japan

Art Center Ongoing, founded in January 2008 in Tokyo, Japan, is a vibrant art complex featuring a gallery, library, and café. Known for fostering experimental art, it has introduced numerous artists and facilitated various events, including talks, performances, and workshops. Since 2013, Art Center Ongoing has run an artist-in-residence program, building a strong network with the international art community. The center offers a 2-month residency, providing accommodation and exhibition opportunities, and aims to be a space where diverse individuals can engage with contemporary art. Situated in the culturally rich Kichijoji area, it serves as a crucial hub for young, active artists in Tokyo’s art scene.

The Kyoto Retreat

Kyoto, Japan

The Kyoto Retreat is an international residency designed for artists, curators, and writers seeking research and inspiration in Kyoto, Japan. The program offers participants a tranquil environment rooted in Japan’s cultural heritage, ideal for creative reflection rather than production. It emphasizes immersion in local traditions such as tea ceremonies, ikebana, and historical architecture. Participants are selected from all career stages and work across a wide range of artistic disciplines. The residency supports solo creative exploration, providing private accommodation in a shared house and a stipend for meals and local travel. Flights and local transportation are arranged for accepted residents, ensuring a smooth transition to the experience. While structured events are included, the residency encourages rest, cultural engagement, and self-directed discovery. The Kyoto Retreat champions inclusivity and maintains a supportive environment free from discrimination.