The US/Japan Creative Artists Program is extremely competitive; only five artists are selected to go to Japan. Applicants should anticipate a highly rigorous review of their artistry and should have compelling reasons for wanting to work in Japan

In 2012 leading contemporary and traditional artists from the United States can spend three months in Japan as part of the United States/Japan Creative Artists Program.  They go as seekers, as cultural visionaries, and as living liaisons to the traditional and contemporary cultural life of Japan. The outlook they bring home provides an exceptional opportunity to promote cultural understanding between the United States and Japan.

Cultural understanding is at the heart of this program. It provides funds for up to five artists to complete the residency in Japan. Artists are free to interact with Japanese artists anywhere in the country and to pursue activities of greatest relevance to their creative process. While many artists chose to remain in Tokyo, others have undertaken their residencies in Kyoto or other cities, and still others have worked in rural settings or have visited a number of sites relevant to their work.

Upon their arrival in Tokyo, artists will be predominantly on their own during the residency; however, International House of Japan provides in-depth orientation materials, expert advice and professional contacts, as well as logistical support during the residency period.

The Japan-US Friendship Commission works cooperatively with the National Endowment for the Arts to sponsor this program.

More info

Application Deadlines

Postmark Deadline: February 1, 2011 for the 2012 program. Residencies for a three month period may begin any time between January 1 and December 31 of 2012. Notification: By July 31, 2011.