Fully funded artist residency in Japan — June 2027. Seto Art Residency at Salt Road Studio offers three selected artists three weeks in Akō, on the Seto Inland Sea coast, from June 6–27, 2027 (subject to change).
Round-trip airfare, shared accommodation, studio space, and a $1,000 USD living-cost grant are included. Applications close April 30, 2027 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time (New York, EDT / UTC−4). A $25 non-refundable application fee applies; selected artists pay no program fee.
Seto Art Residency at Salt Road Studio is a fully funded three week international artist residency in Ako, Japan, located near the renowned art islands of the Seto Inland Sea. Created by Gina Keatley, founder and former owner of Bushwick Gallery in Brooklyn, NYC, the residency builds upon years of internationally recognized contemporary art programming, artist development, and cultural exchange.
Under Keatley’s direction, Bushwick Gallery became known for showcasing hundreds of contemporary artworks by emerging and established international artists while generating press and visibility through platforms including ArtRabbit, Hamptons Fine Art Fair (HFAF), Dan’s Papers, Whitehot Magazine, and Fine Art News.
Located approximately two hours from Osaka by train, the residency is designed to offer artists both immersion and freedom. No car is needed, with train access within walking distance of the residency, allowing artists to independently explore the surrounding coastal region, nearby cities, and Japan’s contemporary art landscape with ease.
Each year, three selected artists will receive flights, lodging, and a living grant while participating in an intensive residency experience within a rural coastal Japanese community. Artists will have dedicated time and space to create new work, explore Japanese culture, and engage with international contemporary art dialogue.
Japanese language experience is not required. Translation support will be available throughout the residency, allowing artists to fully engage with local culture, creative exchange, and meaningful cross cultural collaboration.
Seto Art Residency aims to support globally engaged contemporary artists while fostering lasting relationships between art, travel, culture, and place.
June 2027 at a glance
Three weeks in Akō, Japan, for three selected artists. Funding includes round-trip airfare, shared lodging, studio space, and a $1,000 USD living-cost grant.
Open to artists worldwide aged 18 or older, at emerging or established career stages. Applications close April 30, 2027 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time (New York, EDT / UTC−4). There is a $25 non-refundable application fee; selected artists pay no program fee.
Applicant notifications: May 7, 2027 at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time (New York, EDT / UTC−4).
Equipment and access: Basic studio equipment is available, with more advanced equipment provided as needed. All artistic disciplines are welcome. The residency is accessible; please contact the team to discuss individual access or equipment needs.
Read the residency FAQ for eligibility, accepted disciplines, funding, and shared living details.