NCA Opens Applications for the “Curator Residency Program 2027 – Japan”

The National Centre for the Arts (NCA) has announced a new opportunity for art professionals, inviting curators based outside Japan to apply for the 2027 Curator Residency Program in Tokyo.

Organised by the Mori Contemporary Art Foundation (MoriCAF), the initiative targets curators with a keen interest in Japanese contemporary art. The residency offers successful candidates a platform to conduct field research, establish links with local artists and cultural institutions, and cultivate professional networks across Japan.

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Curating involves researching, selecting, and presenting artworks or cultural objects to tell a compelling story or explore a specific concept within a gallery, museum, or public space. Far beyond simply hanging pictures on a wall, curatorial work requires critical analysis, historical research, and deep collaboration with artists and institutions to contextualise creative practices. Curators act as cultural bridges—interpreting complex artistic ideas for the public, shaping critical dialogue around visual culture, and preserving artistic history for future generations.

The program runs between April 2027 and March 2028, with individual residencies lasting from one to three months (up to a maximum of 90 days).

As per the official announcement gazetted, MoriCAF will provide full operational support for selected participants, covering return economy airfare to Tokyo, accommodation, daily breakfast, and coordination assistance for research activities in Japan. The foundation also offers up to 200,000 Japanese Yen to cover approved research expenses.

Applicants must satisfy the following criteria:

• Reside outside Japan
• Possess at least five years of curatorial experience in contemporary art
• Maintain fluency in either English or Japanese
• Demonstrate the ability to live and work independently
• Commit to a residency period of at least one month
• Participate in program-related promotional activities
• Refrain from commercial activities during the residency
• Secure adequate travel and medical insurance prior to departure

The following documents are required in the application:

• A completed application form in English
• A research project proposal (maximum 500 words)
• A portfolio featuring active links to past curatorial projects
• A curriculum vitae (CV) in PDF format
• One signed recommendation letter in English
• Contact details for two professional references

MoriCAF will invite shortlisted candidates to an online interview following the initial assessment.

Interested curators are to submit their application documents to residence@moricaf.jp before 14:00 on 31 October 2026. Full application guidelines, the application form, and program details are available via the foundation’s official website.