TOMA HOUSE AIR is an artist residency focusing on traditional Japanese arts and crafts. They offer two technique-based, four-week residency programs: one in kintsugi (gold joinery repair) and another in hyogu (mounting of hanging scrolls). Both programs are designed and led by experienced local craftspeople and artists and are supported by the Agency for Cultural Affairs of Japan. These programs allow international participants to learn directly from experts and incorporate the acquired skills into their ongoing artistic practice.
The residency is open to artists, researchers, and craftspeople from a wide range of disciplines. They offer shared studio space and private bedrooms located within a registered cultural property—an 18th-century former Shinto priest family residence and the only preserved shake house (residence of a Shinto priest family) in the neighborhood. To preserve the historic building, a series of restorations has been carried out since 2017, while exhibitions, artist-in-residency programs, performances, workshops, and lectures have taken place in this unique space. To highlight the fact that the restoration is still ongoing, we refer to this project as Toma Unrestored.

The artist residency is located in a tranquil neighborhood called Takabatake-cho, a cultural district in the center of Nara City that was once inhabited by priest families serving at the nearby Kasuga Taisha Shrine. The residency space is surrounded by a garden with a primitive forest, historic neighborhoods, Nara Park, and five UNESCO World Heritage sites accessible within walking distance. Nara, as the former capital city of Japan, is rich in history and artisan crafts. Other cities, such as Kyoto and Osaka, are accessible within 45 minutes by train.

TOMA HOUSE AIR aims to provide a context where traditional Japanese arts and crafts, historical architecture, and contemporary art intersect. The residency offers an immersive setting for international artists seeking to deepen their understanding of Japanese artistic practices while engaging in independent or technique-based production.

In 2026, Toma House AIR has launched two themed artist-in-residence programs designed to offer international artists a unique opportunity to learn traditional Japanese crafts. These programs are commissioned by the Agency for Cultural Affairs, Government of Japan, as part of its initiative to support the development of high-quality cultural and artistic experiences.

Kintsugi Residency Program:
This 4-week intensive program offers participants a comprehensive foundation in traditional urushi-based kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with lacquer and gold. Set in Toma House AIR, an 18th-century registered cultural property in Nara City, the residency combines hands-on workshops, lectures, and tool-making sessions. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, participants will explore the artistry, culture, and philosophy of kintsugi, gaining practical skills in repairing ceramics and creating traditional tools. The program aims to empower artists, students, and researchers to integrate kintsugi techniques into their future practices and personal projects.

Hyogu – The Art of Paper Mounting and Framing Residency Program:
This program focuses on the traditional Japanese art of hyogu, specifically the mounting and framing of kakejiku (hanging scrolls). Conducted in collaboration with the century-old mounting studio SEIKADOU, participants will engage in lectures, workshops, and field trips that cover the historical context, structural elements, and techniques integral to hyogu artistry. Each participant will learn to mount two pieces of kakejiku under the guidance of experienced Japanese mounters. Set within the historic Toma House AIR, the program provides a culturally immersive experience, including participation in a tea ceremony, enhancing appreciation for hyogu art. Participants will receive a kakejiku handbook and a set of mounting tools, equipping them with practical skills applicable to their future projects or artistic practices.

Kintsugi Residency
Spring Session: March 28th to April 24th
Autumn Session: October 3rd to October 30th

Hyogu Residency
Spring Session: May 9th to June 5th
Autumn Session: November 7th to December 4th