We are pleased to announce the successful applicants for ‘Artist in Aso 2018’!!
During their 50 days’ stay, these artists will create artworks by the theme of ‘Aso’ and promote ‘Aso’ to the world not only for the residential period but also after they go back to their countries.

Application has been closed.

Application Requirements

1. Background to implement this program

Aso is located in Kumamoto Prefecture, in the center of Kyushu, Japan. It is about 2 hours’ flight from Tokyo. 50,000 people live within one of the world's largest calderas, where there are 5 Aso mountains, including the active volcano called “Nakadake”. Ancient cultural records of Aso Shrine date back to 282 B.C. This premier tourist area has cultural significance and unique animals and plants which draw over 1.7 million visitors annually.
In 2013, Aso was evaluated for the unique farming mode of its largest grasslands in Japan and the scenic beauty of the grasslands and farming areas and FAO (Food and Agricultural of the United Nations) designated Aso as GIAHS, (Globally Important Agricultural Heritage). Also, Aso was designated as a Global Geopark in 2014.
Therefore, it has become important to promote positive perceptions of the beauty of Aso to the wider world.

We released a video recording the state of activities in 2017.

Selected artists