SPACE DEPARTMENT Artist In Residence Program
Features
StudiosAvailable
AccommodationsAvailable
Presentation(exhibition, performance, and open studio)Available
Grants and subsidies for travel expensesNot available
Grants and other financial supports/ Support by coordinators and art professionalsAvailable
Art genresVisual arts/ Fine arts , Performing arts , Craft / Applied arts , Film / Video
RegionsKansai
| Program | |
|---|---|
| Application period | Regular call |
| Description | Space Department is an independent creative hub and artist residency based in the ancient capital city of Nara, Japan. We welcome artists from Japan and abroad who explore themes related to “space” through diverse activities, creations, and forms of expression. The program provides introduction to this ancient city, creative support, research guidance, and opportunities to connect with the historical city of Nara, local artists and local communities. By hosting and supporting artists, architects, and designers, Space Department encourages deep cultural exchange and immersion in Nara’s unique history, sensibility, natural and local environment. |
| Residency location | SPACE DEPARTMENT |
| Residency period | Minimum one month up to two-month stay during the period of March 01 (Sun), 2026 to November 30(Mon), 2026. Residency must start at the beginning of each month and end on the 30th day of the month. |
| Qualification | • Creative individuals or teams working in the fields of art, architecture, spatial design, installation, poets, writers, painting, contemporary dance or any work that engages with the senses/ body, site specific, three-dimensional space, digital or the built environment. • Those who are interested in exploring, researching and understanding Japanese sensibilities in art, architecture, philosophy and culture in order to further develop their work. • There are no restrictions on the field of expertise. • The program is not limited to creating and using space, but includes all creative activities using 'space'. • We encourage a form of output or sharing outcomes through workshop, event, lecture, exhibition, research presentation, etc. during the residency period (we will support to the best of our ability and extent of our resource). • Those who are able to interact with other artists and local residents in the neighborhood with good relations. • communicate in English or Japanese |
| Pay by artists / Support for artists | Expenses -The cost of living, activities, and accommodation during the stay is to be borne by the applicant. -Individuals or groups (up to 4 people) are welcome. -A holding deposit of USD500 ( or equivalent to 70,000 Japanese Yen) per person is required to reserve in advance. The holding deposit will become the house deposit and will be returned after the residency minus cleaning fee and any damages to the property. -A simple contract will be signed at the time of moving in. -Residence fee USD1,200 per month per person. -For group of two or team- please email us for teams of more than one person or family for cost) USD1800 per month for 2 persons - Please contact them for 3+ or more guests or teams （Residency fee includes) - Utilities - Wi-Fi Participants must inform beforehand if they will bring their assistants, family or guests staying as a visitor maximum of two weeks only. Additional costs for stay will be charged at a pro rata daily rate. 1. Main Space The house is a renovated 100+ years old farm house. The upper floor is a private Japanese style room dedicated for the Artists private accommodation. The ground floor is open the living, working and amenities but open to the community. The ground level is used for workshops, talks, events and gathering with local artists and community. There is a workshop (tools) and open space where artists can create and work on installation. The room can accommodate 1-4 persons as a group. Staying there will include access to all facilities including all amenities, tools and workshops for making and testing ideas, office space, workshop and exhibitions. 2. Annex Space This is a self-contained private detached house 1min. walk from our main space. A typical japanese workers detached house from the early 80's with all the amenities, kitchen, laundry, studio space, small outdoor space etc. 10mn walk to the world heritage sites of Toshodai-ji Temple and Yakushi-ji. Studio Information Both accommodation have working studio/ space to spread. Main space can be shared which has basic hand and power tools and space to create bigger works. Support - We encourage applicants to apply for sponsorship /scholarship from a private or public entity. We will try and provide any letters necessary for your application. - We will provide assistance and creative support for research, places, and contacts for study or interview. Participants have to arrange their own delivery of materials required for the production of works or research. - For Any students who would like to participate but are not sure of what to research, we can assist with topics to research. - Free loan of folding bicycles ※ Participants are responsible for any unexpected accidents or sicknesses. Subscribing in travel insurance is strongly recommended. |
| Selection process | Please send us an email in Japanese or English with the subject heading ‘Artist-in-Residency program 2026’ EMAIL: spacedepartment.nara@gmail.com Include briefly in your letter : - Brief introduction - Art Genre - Why you are interested in the program and in Nara. - What you would like to research about Japan - CV (Curriculum Vitae)/Portfolio (collection of works) |
| Contact | spacedepartment.nara@gmail.com |