Questions, answered.
Find answers about applying to the Seto Art Residency, what the program provides, and what artists can expect while living and working in Akō, Japan.
What is the Seto Art Residency?
The Seto Art Residency at Salt Road Studio is a fully funded, three-week international artist residency in Akō, Japan. The program gives artists dedicated time and space to develop their work while experiencing the culture, landscape, and daily life of the Seto Inland Sea region.
When will the 2027 residency take place?
The residency is scheduled for June 6–27, 2027 (subject to change). Arrival information will be shared with selected artists.
When is the application deadline?
Applications for the 2027 residency close April 30, 2027 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time (New York, EDT / UTC−4).
Who will review applications?
Applications will be reviewed by a three-person panel: a Japan-based curator, a New York curator or arts organizer, and a practicing artist with international residency experience.
When will applicants be notified?
Applicants will be notified on May 7, 2027 at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time (New York, EDT / UTC−4).
Who can apply?
Artists from anywhere in the world who are 18 or older may apply. We welcome both emerging and established artists. Applicants do not need a degree, gallery representation, or a particular level of professional experience. We are looking for curious, committed artists who are excited to develop their practice in a new environment and participate in a small, communal residency.
What artistic disciplines are accepted?
All artistic disciplines are welcome, including painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, printmaking, textile and fiber art, ceramics, installation, performance, video and film, digital art, and mixed media. If your practice does not fit neatly into one category, select “Other” on the application and tell us about your work.
How many artists will be selected?
Three artists will be selected for the 2027 residency. The small cohort is intended to encourage meaningful exchange while giving each artist time to pursue an independent creative practice.
What does “fully funded” include?
Each selected artist will receive round-trip airfare to Japan, shared accommodations for the residency period, shared studio and workspace access, a $1,000 living-cost grant, and translation and local support. There is no residency program fee for selected artists.
What is the $1,000 living-cost grant for?
The grant helps offset food, local transportation, and personal expenses during the residency. It is intended to support the artist’s living costs and is not a salary or payment for completed artwork.
Is there an application fee?
Yes. There is a $25 non-refundable application fee, which helps support the review and administration of submissions. Selected artists do not pay a residency program fee.
What equipment is available?
Basic studio equipment is available, with more advanced equipment provided as needed. All artistic disciplines are welcome. Please share your equipment needs with the team so arrangements can be planned.
What is the living situation?
The three selected artists will share communal accommodations for the full residency period. Applicants should be comfortable living and working closely with other artists while respecting shared spaces and individual working practices. Additional information about rooms, facilities, and house guidelines will be provided before the residency.
Do I need to speak Japanese?
No Japanese-language experience is required. Translation and cultural support will be available to help participating artists navigate daily life and engage with the local community.
Do I need a car?
No. The studio is within walking distance of local train access, and artists can explore Akō and the surrounding region by train, bicycle, walking, and public transportation. Akō is approximately two hours from Osaka by train.
Do I need a visa?
Entry requirements depend on your nationality. Some artists may enter Japan visa-free for a short stay, while others may need to obtain a Temporary Visitor visa before traveling. Applicants are responsible for confirming their individual entry requirements with the appropriate Japanese embassy or consulate. Salt Road Studio does not sponsor employment or long-term visas.
Can Salt Road Studio accommodate accessibility, health, or dietary needs?
The residency is accessible. Please contact us at [email protected] to discuss individual accessibility needs, health considerations, dietary requirements, or other accommodations before applying.
Can I save my application and finish it later?
Yes. Choose “Save and Resume Later” beside the submit button to receive a private return link valid for 30 days. File uploads, mailing addresses, and card details must be re-entered when you return. Saving a draft does not submit your application; complete the form and payment by the application deadline. You can copy the return link or request it by email.
What should I prepare before applying?
Prepare a bio of up to 250 words, three images of recent work, and two responses of up to 250 words each about your interest in the residency and proposed work. Have your contact details, billing address, passport status, and payment card ready. A PDF CV or résumé is optional. See the full application checklist and file requirements.
How do I apply?
Complete the online application and submit all requested materials by April 30, 2027 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time (New York, EDT / UTC−4).
What if my question is not answered here?
Please contact us at [email protected]. We will be happy to help.