#Japan #Tokyo #MEET YOUR ART #Pasona art now #Public Art Now

MEET YOUR ART FESTIVAL 2026: Call for Artists

The MEET YOUR ART FESTIVAL executive committee, alongside Pasona art now and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, is thrilled to announce the initiation of the outdoor artwork program "PUBLIC ART NOW," aimed at showcasing contemporary art in public spaces. This festival is set to transform the Tennozu area in Tokyo from October 9 to October 12, 2026, through various art activities including exhibitions, performances, and marketplaces.

“PUBLIC ART NOW” begins accepting submissions today, offering artists the chance to present their works in outdoor settings and engage in a vibrant artistic dialogue. This program is dedicated to fostering creativity and collaboration, providing a platform for artists to take bold steps in their artistic practice.

Application Details

The most outstanding piece selected through this program will not only be exhibited at the festival but will also earn its creator a solo or group exhibition opportunity at Pasona art now's gallery located in Minami-Aoyama. Additionally, two runner-up pieces will receive the same gallery exhibition opportunity. The awards encourage innovative expressions that resonate with the festival’s theme of cultural emergence.

The festival, which is projected to attract around 50,000 attendees, seeks to create an intersection of various cultures, conversations, and artistic encounters. Therefore, artists are encouraged to submit works that can transform shared spaces into realms of experience, reflection, and interaction.

Theme for 2026

The theme for the upcoming festival, "Cultural Signals," aims to unearth and highlight new sensibilities and values often overlooked in today's fast-paced society. Artists are invited to articulate this theme through their works, contributing to the festival’s vision of making cultural currents visible in the context of modernity and locality.

Awards and Prize Money

Grand Prize:

• - One winner
• - Cash Prize: 500,000 yen (before tax)
• - Exhibition of their work at MEET YOUR ART FESTIVAL 2026
• - Opportunity for a solo or group exhibition at the Pasona art now gallery

Excellence Award:

• - Two winners
• - Cash Prize: 100,000 yen (before tax)
• - Exhibition opportunity at the Pasona art now gallery

Application Timeline

• - Submission Period: July 14 - July 31, 2026
• - Online Presentation: August 4 or 5, 2026
• - First Round Results: Early August 2026

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for participation, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• - Be 35 years old or younger as of October 2026.
• - Have a consistent track record in artistic practice.
• - Applications can be individual or by units (with at least one representative satisfying eligibility).
• - Ability to collaborate and engage with organizing committee members post-acceptance and adapt works based on site requirements.

Guidelines for Artwork Submission

• - Both existing and new works can be submitted.
• - Modifications to existing works are allowed, provided they maintain outdoor display safety and integrity.
• - Submit detailed proposals regarding the installation, materials, and safety considerations.
• - Specifications typically allow for pieces within 2,000mm (W) × 2,000mm (D) × 3,000mm (H), adaptable based on site conditions.

How to Apply

Artists should submit their portfolios and additional materials via the linked application form here. Required documentation includes:

• - Portfolio
• - CV
• - Project proposal outlining artwork concepts (400-800 words)
• - Size, material, and installation details of the artwork
• - Production timeline as necessary

Judging Criteria

Submissions will be assessed based on:

• - Conceptual depth and expression
• - Public art appeal
• - Compatibility with MEET YOUR ART FESTIVAL
• - Feasibility and safety compliance

Festival Overview

The MEET YOUR ART FESTIVAL features a diverse array of programs including art exhibitions, fairs, live performances, and markets, aimed at fostering new cultural narratives and artistic interactions. The festival's initiatives have continuously evolved, aiming to redefine public engagement with art and culture through innovative collaborations with brands and local governments.

For more information regarding the festival and submissions, please reach out via email at [email protected].

Join us as we look forward to witnessing transformative artistic expressions at MEET YOUR ART FESTIVAL 2026!

For more festival details and updates, visit: MEET YOUR ART FESTIVAL.