【Tokyo Arts Council】Call for Artists: Creative Space 'START Box' Utilizing Vacant Stores in Tokyo Metropolitan Housing (Application Deadline: July 27 (Mon))

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the Tokyo Metropolitan Foundation for History and Culture's Arts Council Tokyo are launching "START Box," a program that provides creative spaces and ongoing support for young artists who face difficulties securing studios and similar facilities.

A new shared studio, "START Box Sakashita," will open in Sakashita 1-chome, Itabashi Ward. Characterized by its open, doorless design, this space fosters interaction among artists and enables the creation of large-scale works.

In addition to "START Box Sakashita," applications are now open for artists wishing to use the existing facilities "START Box Sasahatahatsu" and "START Box Shirahige" starting October. All facilities are available at affordable rates.

The application deadline is July 27 (Mon) at 12:00 noon. We encourage all eligible artists to apply.

Overview of the Call

1. Facilities

START Box Sakashita (Studio) \NEW!/

START Box Sasahatahatsu (Studio)

START Box Shirahige (Studio/Rehearsal Space)

*There are no plans to accept new applications for START Box Odaiba in fiscal year 2026.

*For details about each facility, please visit the official START Box website or refer to the press release.

2. Eligible Fields

Studio: Visual arts such as fine arts, photography, and media art

Rehearsal Space: Performing arts such as theater and dance

3. Application Period

From 14:00 on Monday, June 29, 2026 to 12:00 on Monday, July 27, 2026

4. Eligibility

• Must require a space for creative activities

• Must be between approximately 18 and 40 years of age

• Must reside, work, or have graduated from a school in Tokyo

• Other criteria apply

5. How to Apply

Please review the application guidelines and apply via the official START Box website.

6. Selection Process

Applicants will be selected based on submitted documents.

Results will be notified to all applicants by late August 2026 (tentative).

For further details, please visit the official START Box website or refer to the press release (PDF) below.

d38211-1088-996f0db3374fec13a402bf15d8054664.pdf

About START Box

START Box is a program that provides creative spaces and supports sustained artistic activities for young artists who face difficulties securing studios and similar facilities.

In 2023, studios "START Box Sasahatahatsu" and "START Box Odaiba" were launched utilizing vacant stores in Tokyo Metropolitan housing. In January 2026, "START Box Shirahige" opened as the first facility to include a rehearsal space. "START Box Sakashita" will open in October 2026.

To date, a total of 81 individual artists have used the studios, and 19 performing arts groups have used the rehearsal spaces. Some artists have gone on to participate in international exhibitions and competitions as a result of their activities at START Box.