MONO JAPAN FOUNDATION
BRIDGING CREATIVE PARTNERSHIPS
Through our activities over the years, we have been able to introduce many aspects of Japan’s craftsmanship and culture of manufacturing across wider audiences and in more depth, while simultaneously bridging this Japanese culture with Europe's unique design culture, creating significant international relationships.
In order to continue realizing our vision and to continue our operations, in November 2019 we registered Stichting MONO JAPAN, a non-profit foundation. Moving forward, as a cultural organization we aim to facilitate not only business opportunities but also creative and culturally-driven opportunities in the modern era.
In November 2019 the organisation became a foundation under Dutch law and works now under the name of Stichting MONO JAPAN. Stichting MONO JAPAN functions as an active platform moderator in establishing new Dutch-Japanese creative partnerships.
In 2020, MONO JAPAN moved its Artist In Residence (AIR) program for designers/artists in The Netherlands and traditional craftspeople/artisans in Japan to a digital platform. MJ ONLINE AIR was held from October 2020 to April 2021, the online meetings were archived on YouTube channel.
These program were supported by the Creative Industries Fund NL and The Embassy of The Kingdom of The Netherlands.
For interviews, guest lecture and talks, please send a email to info@monojapan.nl
AKIYA AIR IWAMI - Artist in Residency in Rural Japan
AKIYA AIR IWAMI is an Artist-in-Residence programme initiated by Stichting MONO JAPAN in collaboration with partners in the Iwami region of Shimane Prefecture, Japan. The programme invites international artists, designers, and researchers to engage with the local context of Gotsu and Yunotsu through research, production, and exchange.
Focusing on akiya (vacant houses), material culture, and sustainability, the residency explores new possibilities for creative practice within rural communities.
The residency will take place from October 1 to December 20, 2026.
