Mori Contemporary Art Foundation: Curator Residency Program 2027
Mori Contemporary Art Foundation: Curator Residency Program 2027
The Mori Contemporary Art Foundation (MoriCAF) supports the international development and visibility of Japanese contemporary art. Its Curator Residency Program invites experienced curators based outside Japan to undertake research and engage with artists, researchers, museums, galleries and other art professionals across Japan.
The programme aims to foster international exchange, develop professional networks and encourage future exhibitions and collaborations. Selected curators receive accommodation, international travel support, research funding and assistance with coordinating their projects.
Residencies take place between April 2027 and March 2028 and last one to three months (maximum 90 days). Applicants may indicate up to two preferred residency periods. The exact dates and duration will be determined in consultation with the selected curators.
Professional curators residing outside Japan with at least five years of curatorial experience in contemporary art and an interest in Japanese contemporary art. Applicants must be fluent in English or Japanese and able to live and work independently. There are no age or nationality restrictions.
- return economy-class airfare to Japan
- furnished accommodation in Tokyo with breakfast included;
- research-related expenses, including domestic travel and accommodation;
- assistance with coordinating their research activities and professional meetings.
Travel and medical insurance, visa fees and other travel-related expenses are not covered.
Up to JPY 200,000 (including tax) for research-related expenses.The research budget may cover domestic transportation, accommodation and other related expenses. Participants must submit an itemised expense report, and unused funds may need to be returned.
- See 'Who can apply' for applicant eligibility.
- The proposed research must focus on Japanese contemporary art. Priority is given to research linked to specific future exhibitions or projects rather than general research;
- The residency must last between one and three months (maximum 90 days), between April 2027 and March 2028;
- Participants must stay continuously in the accommodation provided by MoriCAF;
- Commercial activities are not permitted during the residency;
- Participants must actively contribute to publicity activities;
- Participants must present their research findings and submit a written report at the end of the residency.
- Application documents:
- Completed application form in English, including a research proposal (maximum 500 words).
- Portfolio with active links to previous curatorial projects.
- CV in PDF format.
- One signed letter of recommendation in English (A4, PDF).
- Contact details of two professional referees.