Photography Residency in Japan

Become part of a prestigious international project and discover Japan through your camera lens! 

Trenčín 2026, in collaboration with the Japanese organization EU-Japan Fest, announces an open call for photographers from Slovakia to take part in a unique residency opportunity in Japan.

This project is part of the renowned international program European Eyes on Japan | Japan Today, which has been showcasing contemporary Japanese culture through the eyes of European artists since 1999.

The selected photographer will have the opportunity to spend at least three weeks in one of Japan’s prefectures, capturing everyday life and creating a photo series that will be published and exhibited both in Japan and Europe—including in Trenčín and Oulu, the European Capitals of Culture 2026.

Who are we looking for?

This open call is for photographers who:

✔ Have a strong artistic approach and reflect on the role of photography in contemporary society.
✔ Are capable of creating a cohesive photo series and preparing both an exhibition and a photographic publication.
✔ Have not previously lived in Japan.
✔ Have experience in creating photographic books and exhibitions.

What do we offer?

✔ A residency in Japan during 2025 (minimum 3 weeks).
✔ The publication of an original photographic book and exhibitions in Trenčín, Oulu, and Japan.
✔ Participation in a prestigious international network of photographers and artists.

Participation conditions

After the exhibition in Japan, the photographs will be donated to the respective prefecture and the city of Higashikawa in Hokkaido, home to the Higashikawa International Photography Festival.

How to apply?

📩 Submit your application by March 31, 2025, at 23:59 by filling out the form, including:

✔ Your CV
✔ Your portfolio
✔ A short statement about your residency concept