Best Art Residencies in Asia

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1. MMCA Residencies (Goyang & Changdong, South Korea)

Operated by the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, these residencies provide artists with studios, housing, and professional opportunities near Seoul.

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• Global Network: Welcomes local and international artists across various disciplines.

• Artistic Freedom: Offers an open framework for experimentation and innovation.

• Collaborative Environment: Includes open studios, networking events, and artist talks that connect residents with curators and peers.
   

Ideal For: Artists seeking institutional support and visibility in South Korea’s influential contemporary art scene.

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Application Deadline: September

 

2. ARCUS Artist-in-Residence Program (Ibaraki, Japan)

Located in rural Ibaraki Prefecture, ARCUS focuses on long-term, process-based residencies that encourage community interaction and cultural exchange.

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• Global Network: Attracts international artists, fostering global awareness and shared perspectives.

• Artistic Freedom: Supports exploratory work, with few constraints on medium or theme.

• Collaborative Environment: Offers artist talks, open studios, and outreach with local residents.

Ideal For: Artists who value in-depth research, community engagement, and a serene setting away from big-city distractions.

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Application Deadline: December and February

 

3. Tokyo Arts and Space (TOKAS) (Tokyo, Japan)

A program of the Tokyo Metropolitan Foundation for History and Culture, TOKAS provides diverse residencies for emerging and mid-career artists interested in Japan’s capital.

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• Global Network: Brings together Japanese and international creatives from varied disciplines.

• Artistic Freedom: Offers research-based or production-focused residencies with flexible project scopes.

• Collaborative Environment: Features exhibitions, open studios, and partnerships with local institutions.

Ideal For: Artists seeking an immersive urban experience and exposure to Tokyo’s cutting-edge art scene.

 

Application Deadline: July​


 

4. Studio Kura (Fukuoka, Japan)

Located in Itoshima, a coastal area near Fukuoka, Studio Kura offers a countryside residency experience focused on cultural exchange, community engagement, and artistic development.

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• Global Network: Welcomes international artists of various disciplines and hosts regular public events.

• Artistic Freedom: Encourages artists to develop personal projects in a peaceful rural setting, with opportunities for local cultural immersion.

• Collaborative Environment: Organizes workshops, exhibitions, and school visits, fostering dialogue between artists and local residents.

Ideal For: Artists seeking a serene, community-centered environment in Japan’s countryside, blending natural inspiration with interactive art activities.

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Application Deadline: Ongoing Basis

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