Nakanojo Biennale 2027 Artist Open Call

Nakanojo Biennale is an international contemporary art festival held every two years in Nakanojo Town, Gunma Prefecture. The 2027 open call seeks artists from Japan and abroad with projects from various fields.

Official Call / Opportunity Page URL: https://nakanojo-biennale.com/2027-open-call/english.html

Deadline: 12 July 2026. Online applications are due by 23:59 UTC+9; mail applications must be postmarked by the deadline.

Application Fee / Participation Fee: The official page states that there is no exhibition fee or residency fee and that artists receive a production grant. No application fee is stated on the official page.

Eligibility: The open call accepts all genres, including sculpture, painting, photography, video art, installation, and performance. Both individual artists and artist groups may apply.

Project / Submission Requirements: Online applicants submit through the web form and prepare either a website or PDF portfolio, and an image sheet describing the proposed artwork concept in 200 to 250 words with sketches or photos. Mail applicants send a portfolio and image sheet to the office.

Support / Benefits: The festival runs from 18 September to 24 October 2027 for 37 days. Locations are five areas of Nakanojo Town: Nakanojo Town Center, Isama, Shima-Onsen, Sawatari Kuresaka, and Kuni. Artists receive a production grant.

Application Method: Submit by the official web application form or by mail to the Office of Nakanojo Biennale, following the application requirements on the official page.

Additional Conditions Stated by Organizer: Artists are responsible for expenses including food, transportation, and making, installing, and removing artwork. First-time participants are required to attend the online orientation and on-site inspection for at least one day. Overseas artists who cannot remove the artwork themselves must arrange collection with DHL. If artists want to protect their work, they are responsible for purchasing their own insurance; insurance subsidies are available.