The Tokyo Biennale 2025 “Social Dive” Artist-in-Residence (AIR) Open Call invites international artists to immerse themselves in Tokyo’s vibrant urban life. Centered around the theme “Shall we ‘Sanpo’?”, the Tokyo Biennale Social Dive program invites artists from around the world to create walking-based projects that explore Tokyo’s streets, engage with local communities, and uncover both traditional and emerging cultural values.
The Tokyo Biennale 2025 is now accepting applications for its “Tokyo Biennale Social Dive 2025” Artist-in-Residence program, taking place between September and October 2025 in Tokyo, Japan. Selected artists will stay in Tokyo during this period to develop and present their work—including research, workshops, and community dialogues—at the Biennale’s opening on October 17, 2025. The application deadline is May 2, 2025, at 23:59 JST.
Tokyo Biennale Social Dive Program Details
- Host Organization: Tokyo Biennale
- Host Country: Japan
- Location: Tokyo
- Duration: Not Specified
- Dates: September and October
Study Areas
The program welcomes artists from diverse disciplines, including:
- Visual Arts
- Design
- Performance
- Media Art
- Photography
- Music
- Architecture
- Socially Engaged Art
- Academic Research
- Community Projects
Tokyo Biennale Social Dive Benefits
Selected artists will receive:
- Round-trip Travel expenses (up to 300,000 JPY including tax, maximum 1 person)
- Accommodation in Tokyo
- Coordination of venue for the art program
- Support fee for project development (with a budget limit of 200,000 JPY including tax)
- Honorarium 100,000JPY, including tax
- Interpretation and translation support
- Issue of Invitation Letter
Benefits Not Included
Artists are responsible for:
- Daily living expenses (meals, transportation, etc.)
- Art materials and production costs beyond provided support
- Personal insurance and healthcare
Eligibilities for Tokyo Biennale Social Dive
Applicants must:
- Be 18 years or older
- Artists residing outside Japan.
- Be able to reside in Tokyo during the residency period
Application Conditions
- Must directly engage with the “SOCIAL DIVE” theme and connect with Tokyo’s communities or cultural values
- Must propose a walking-based project that offers new experiences in Tokyo
- Must include a plan to document research, workshops, or local dialogue before the exhibition
- Must be available to participate as an invited artist and prepare for the exhibition upon selection
- Must be able to stay and produce work in Tokyo between September and October 2025
- Only one project proposal is allowed per applicant
Required Documents
Submission Materials (Accepted in English or Japanese only):
- Artist profile photo (max 1MB)
- Self-introduction statement (up to 500 words)
- Artist biography, CV, and portfolio (max 5 pages, A4 size, vertical, up to 5MB)
- Project overview (1 sheet, A3 size, horizontal, include text and images)
- Project schedule (1 sheet, A4 size, vertical)
- Budget sheet (1 sheet, A4 size, vertical)
- Website or social media URLs (e.g., Instagram, Facebook)
- Video message URL (max 2 minutes, showing applicant and artwork)
Tokyo Biennale Social Dive Application Process
- Review the application guidelines on the official Tokyo Biennale website.
- Prepare all required documents as specified.
- Submit your application through the designated online portal by May 2, 2025, at 23:59 JST.
- Await confirmation and further instructions from the selection committee.
Tips for Successful Application
- Ensure your project proposal is clear, feasible, and aligns with the “Social Dive” theme.
- Highlight previous experiences with community engagement or socially relevant art.
- Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and adaptability to Tokyo’s diverse environment.
- Provide a realistic budget and timeline for your project.
- Proofread your application for clarity and completeness before submission
Monthly Living Expenses for International Artists in Tokyo
On average, international artists can expect the following monthly expenses:
- Accommodation: ¥80,000 – ¥150,000
- Food: ¥40,000 – ¥70,000
- Transportation: ¥10,000 – ¥20,000
- Miscellaneous (utilities, communication, etc.): ¥10,000 – ¥30,000
Total Estimated Monthly Expenses: ¥140,000 – ¥270,000
Why Choose This Opportunity?
Participating in the Tokyo Biennale 2025 “Social Dive” offers artists a unique platform to:
- Engage deeply with Tokyo’s urban and cultural landscapes
- Collaborate with local communities and fellow international artists
- Gain exposure through a prestigious international art event
- Develop and showcase socially impactful art projects
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can artist collectives apply?
Yes, both individual artists and collectives are welcome to apply.
Q2: Is there an application fee?
No, there is no fee to apply for this program.
Q3: Are non-Japanese speakers eligible?
Yes, proficiency in English is acceptable, though knowledge of Japanese can be beneficial.
Q4: What is the duration of the residency?
The residency period will be determined based on the project’s scope and the Biennale’s schedule.
Q5: Will materials and production costs be covered?
Basic support is provided, but artists may need to cover additional costs beyond the allocated budget.
Official Link for More Details and Application
For comprehensive information and to apply, visit the Tokyo Biennale 2025 “Social Dive” Open Call.
