Purpose of the Program

Eiheiji Town in Fukui Prefecture, home to Eiheiji, the head temple of the Soto sect of Buddhism, is known as the “village of Zen.” This project will provide artists and other art professionals (hereinafter, “artists”) the opportunity to experience Zen culture, conduct research on Zen and the region, and engage in creation and research while engaging with local residents.
The artists will be asked to communicate the results of their work and research through these activities. As such, this program is intended to support artists, and at the same time, to draw out the spirit and culture of Zen that live on in the town from an artist’s perspective, thereby encouraging a sense of attachment to the region and interest in art and culture, and fostering a variety of connections, both among people and between people and culture.

Features of the Program

■ Two types of courses:
The residency program offers two courses, the Production Course and the Research Course. Artists in residence may choose either course.

■ Zen experience and Zen culture research
Artists in residence will participate in a one-night stay “sanro” program and experience Zen meditation at Daihonzan Eiheiji Temple to deepen their understanding of Zen and will also have the opportunity to learn from the historical buildings and cultural assets related to Zen and Buddhism located within the temple’s grounds.

■ Provision of housing and studio space
The program provides a guest house or a vacant house in town for use as an accommodation and a studio.

■ Support during residence
During their residency, the program will support the artists’ research on Zen culture and the region, exchanges with local residents, production activities, and opportunities to present their work.

■ Presentation of the results of activities
Artists are required to present the results of their activities in the form of a presentation or exhibition during their residency.