Center AiR 2026 - AIR_J : Online Database of Artist in Residence Programs in Japan
Center AiR seeks artists and researchers in visual arts, performing arts, film/video, and crafts for a minimum 20-night residency at an artist-run space in Japan.
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Get matched →- Deadline
- 52 days left
- Entry fee
- Free
- Location
- Center (Kanuma city, Tochigi, Japan)
- Exhibition window
- Oct 1, 2026 → Nov 29, 2026
About
Overview
Center is an artist-run space with hostel in Kanuma, Tochigi, Japan. It aims to be a place for artistic expression outside of established genres, centred on experimental film and music, and a unique place in the world where a new culture can be fostered. The program seeks to deepen artists' modes of expression and foster sustainable alternative networks enabling people and communities from around the world to meet and connect organically.
Key Dates
- Application period: Jul. 14, 2026 (Tue.) - Sep. 30, 2026 (Wed.)
- Residency period: Minimum 20 nights within Oct. 1 - Nov. 29, 2026
- Check-in: October 1
- Check-out: November 29
- October 10 and 11 fully booked for autumn festival; room availability those dates needs discussion
- Results notified within one week
Eligibility
Artists and researchers in art, music, moving image, design and crafts. People who can communicate in English or Japanese. Can stay with partner, collective, or as a family with children. Groups larger than 10 people should contact organizers.
Residency Details
- Location: Center (Kanuma city, Tochigi, Japan)
- Studio: Former garage (cold in winter, hot in summer)
- Accommodation: New, clean, quiet floors; open as hostel shared with other guests
- Support provided: Detailed support for production, research, event organization, and promotions in Japanese and English
Accommodation Fees
- Room B: ¥5,000 per night (shared shower and toilet)
- Room A: ¥8,000 per night (private bath and toilet)
- Utilities and tax included
- Bath towels and shampoos free
- Washing and drying machines free
- Child 6 years or less per adult free for co-sleeping
Requirements & Notes
- Review process for residency; new works not mandatory
- Hold one event during stay (exhibition, screening, performance, workshop, or talk)
- Accommodation shared with other hostel guests and family-run business
- Studio is former garage with seasonal temperature challenges
- No smoking throughout the building
- Staff will photograph for documentation and share photos
- Detailed support for production and research provided
Location & Access
Kanuma is conveniently located 1.5 hours by direct express train from Tokyo (Asakusa) and about 30 minutes by train to Nikko World Heritage Site. About 70% of the area is forest and nature with hot springs.
Contact & Application
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: https://center-kanuma.net/center-air/
- Results notified within one week of application
- Entry fee
- Room B: ¥5,000 per night (shared shower/toilet); Room A: ¥8,000 per night (private bath/toilet). Utilities, tax, towels, shampoos, washing/drying machines included. Children 6 years or under co-sleeping with adult free.
- Theme
- The residency centers on experimental film and music and seeks to foster artistic expression outside established genres, promoting sustainable alternative networks and enabling international artistic collaboration and regional discovery.
- Eligibility
- Artists and researchers in art, music, moving image, design and crafts who can communicate in English or Japanese; families with children welcome.
- Audience
- Artists and researchers in art, music, moving image, design and crafts; families with children welcome.
- Contact
- [email protected]
Every listing links to the organizer's official page. Always confirm deadlines, fees, and entry rules there before you apply.