In a step towards fostering international collaboration and deepening intercultural dialogue, the Liepāja 2027 Foundation, in partnership with the Japanese non-profit organisation EU-Japan Fest, is inviting Latvian photographers to apply for an opportunity of a fully funded residency in Japan as part of the internationally acclaimed project “European Eyes on Japan | Japan Today”.
Since 1999, this initiative has brought together European photographers to document Japan’s everyday life offering an authentic, Western perspective on contemporary Japanese society.
Between April 2026 and February 2027, one selected photographer from Latvia will embark on a three-week residency in one of yet to be confirmed Japan’s prefectures – Kyoto or Tokushima, to create a conceptually unified photographic series that will be published in an international photobook.
Photographers with a distinct artistic voice, strong visual narrative, and the ability to reflect society, environment and era through their lens are encouraged to apply. The organisers are seeking artists who have not previously lived in Japan (short trips do not disqualify) and have a proven ability to produce coherent, publishable and exhibition-ready series, whether through solo exhibitions, photo publications, or other professional accomplishments.
Both established and emerging talents are welcome.
The residency offers fully funded travel and accommodation in Japan (for three weeks or longer) in 2026, curatorial and editorial support from Japanese partners, publication in the EU-Japan Fest photobook, exhibitions in Japan and Liepāja in 2027. This is also a rare opportunity to join a prestigious network of international photographic artists.
EU-Japan Fest will assume financial responsibility for all costs associated with travel and accommodation, while the production of the exhibition in Latvia will be undertaken by Liepāja 2027.
Applications are open until 31 August 2025, 23:59, to apply, fill in the application form HERE.
Results will be announced in autumn 2025.
For additional information, please contact the open call coordinator Tīna Pētersone at tina.petersone@liepaja2027.lv
Liepāja 2027 Foundation
Public Relations and Marketing Department
Phone: + 371 26 445 289
E-mail: komunikacija@liepaja2027.lv
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