Organizer Information:

The Aomori Contemporary Art Centre (ACAC) is located at the foot of the Hakkoda Mountains in Aomori, Japan. Designed by Tadao Ando under the concept of "invisible architecture," the center provides an inspiring natural environment for creative focus, emphasizing interaction between domestic/international artists and local communities.

Title & Description:

Applications are now open for the ACAC Artist in Residence Program 2026: "EAT".

This year's theme focuses on the act of eating and exploring how to coexist with non-human life in an era of climate change. Moving away from a strictly human-centered perspective, the program offers two distinct application frameworks:

  1. Creator Framework: For artists conducting research, producing artworks, and presenting results (exhibitions, performances, etc.).
  2. Mediator Framework: A newly established track for researchers, curators, and managers whose focus is on dialogue, community collaboration, and submitting a research report, rather than traditional artwork production.

Category:

Multidisciplinary.

(Visual arts, curation, research, writing, design, arts management, and other creative practices).

Eligibility:

  • Who: Individuals or groups engaged in artistic pursuits.
  • Scope: International and domestic (Japan) applicants.
  • Requirements: Applicants must be able to communicate in English or Japanese and reside at ACAC for the core residency period.

Program Benefits & Awards:

  • Workspace & Accommodation: Private accommodation and studio access within the ACAC facilities.
  • Funding: ACAC covers travel expenses, production/activity expenses, and an accommodation allowance for one person (if applying as a group, funding is still limited to a single person's equivalent).
  • Support: Continuous support from ACAC curators and technicians.

Application Fee:

Free.

Program Costs:

  • If approved by the organizers, accompanying individuals (family or assistants) may join, but the participant must cover their travel and a ¥2,040 JPY per night accommodation fee.

Application Requirements:

Applicants must complete the official online form and attach a portfolio. You may only apply to one framework (Creator OR Mediator).

Key Dates:

  • Application Deadline: April 10, 2026 (17:00 JST).
  • Notification: Late June 2026.
  • Core Residency Period: October 9 – December 9, 2026 (Maximum period allowed: Sept 15 – Dec 15).

Location:

Aomori City, Japan.

Contact Information:

Website: ACAC Open Call Information (Inquiries must be submitted via their website form; no phone calls).