2026 Hyogu Residency Open Call

TOMA HOUSE AIR

Free

About the Open Call

Hyogu – The Art of Paper Mounting and Framing is an artist-in-residence program for artists and practitioners who want to pursue a deeper understanding in the art of hyogu, and learn the practical techniques to mount two pieces of kakejiku hanging scrolls. Instructed by professional mounters from the century-old mounting studio Seikadou, artists are encouraged to integrate these traditional techniques into their future practices. The program includes hands-on lessons, field trips to local studios and cultural sites, and workshops on Nara sumi ink painting.

What is Offered

4-week accommodation in either the historic 18th-century Toma House or the renovated Toma Beige annex, 11 days of lessons, 5 field trips, a set of hyogu mounting tools, a Hyogu handbook, materials for two scrolls, shared studio space, and a bilingual English-Japanese interpreter.

Requirements

Open to artists, craftspeople, curators, researchers, and designers. No prior experience in Hyogu is required, but a strong interest in hand mounting or conservation is recommended. This is a self-funded program; participants are responsible for program fees, travel, food, and insurance.

How to Apply

Applicants must read the program guidelines and fill in the Online Application Form provided on the website. Candidates are assessed and offered places on a rolling basis.

Key Information

Deadline

May 9, 2026

Location

Nara, Japan

Categories

Painting

Compensation

unpaid