Invitation Program 2027 Spring / YUI-PORT Artist-in-Residence Project (long-term) - AIR_J : Online Database of Artist in Residence Programs in Japan

Overview

YUI-PORT is a refurbished former junior high school facility offering residency support for visual artists, performing artists, craft/applied arts practitioners, and filmmakers. The program aims to foster creative-rich human resources, transmit the charm of Niigata City both domestically and internationally, and inspire regional pride through interaction between artists and citizens.

Program Features

The facility is located near Niigata City's central urban area, facing the Sea of Japan and a pine forest. Artists will conduct creative activities while residing on-site, open their creative process to the public through workshops and research, and interact with other resident artists. The program supports diverse creative developments across different fields.

Key Dates

• Application period: July 21, 2026 (Tuesday) – August 28, 2026 (Friday)
• Residency period: Within 90 days from April 1, 2027 (Thursday) to June 30, 2027 (Wednesday)
• Notification: Mid-November 2026 (planned)

Eligibility

Currently active artist (genre does not matter). Able to communicate in either Japanese or English. In good health. Must not be affiliated with organized crime or anti-social forces. Works must not violate public order and morals, and primary purpose must not be dissemination or support of a specific political or religious cause. Participation in at least one citizen exchange project is required.

Support Provided

• Production cost subsidy: 200,000 yen
• Daily stipend: 2,800 yen per day (maximum 89 nights/90 days)
• Round-trip transportation: covered up to 100,000 yen (Japan) or 200,000 yen (foreign countries) from nearest airport/train station; 1 round trip covered, additional trips at own cost
• Free studio space: Workshop Gallery (1 or 2)
• Free accommodation: Artist Dormitory (1 or 2) during program period only
• Free use of YUI-PORT tools and furniture during residence

Qualifications & Conditions

• Must be currently active artist (any genre)
• Must participate in citizen exchange project at least once
• Must reside and conduct creative activities at YUI-PORT
• Able to communicate in Japanese or English
• In good health
• Not affiliated with organized crime or anti-social forces
• Works must not violate public order and morals
• Primary purpose must not be dissemination or support of political or religious cause
• Family members and production assistants not allowed in dormitory

Application & Selection

Submit materials to the selection committee, which will decide based on submissions. All applicants notified by email by mid-November 2026. Individual inquiries regarding selection process and results are not accepted.

Contact

YUI-PORT, Niigata City Center for Creative Arts and International Youth Exchange, 2-5932-7 Futaba-cho, Chuo-ku, Niigata City, Niigata Pref., Japan 951-8102. Email inquiries accepted during application period. For details, see application guidelines at https://www.yui-port.com/en/information.php?q=6051