Craft Lake City Matsumoto Cultural Exchange Program 2027 Application 

 

 

Apply for Craft Lake City's Matsumoto Cultural Exchange Program

Craft Lake City is seeking two Utah artisans for a cultural craft exchange in Matsumoto, Japan, Salt Lake City's Sister City.

Applicants should demonstrate a strong commitment to their craft, a meaningful connection to Utah's creative community and an interest in sharing their skills through workshops, demonstrations and cultural exchange. Formal teaching experience is not required. Artisans working in a variety of creative mediums, including craft food, are encouraged to apply.

Applications open November 4, 2026 and close January 20, 2027. Anticipated program dates: May 24 - June 2, 2027, tentative and subject to confirmation. Selected artisans will be notified and announced February 24, 2027. Craft Lake City will invoice selected artisans separately. The participation contribution is due March 3, 2027.

Two Utah artisans will be selected. Each selected artisan who accepts will pay Craft Lake City $1,000 toward the trip, separate from the $25 application fee. Additional program benefits, travel arrangements and participation requirements will be outlined by Craft Lake City.

How to apply

• Read about the Matsumoto Cultural Exchange Program.
• Fill out the application. Tell us about your craft, any teaching experience, and whether you can travel on the proposed dates.
• Upload 3 to 5 images of your current work and briefly describe each one.
• Review the application acknowledgments and pay the $25 nonrefundable application fee.

Applying does not guarantee selection.

Selected artisans must be able to travel internationally and meet passport requirements by the deadline communicated by Craft Lake City. Program participation includes workshops, demonstrations and cultural exchange activities, with reasonable accommodations where needed. Final arrangements and responsibilities will be provided in the participant agreement.

If you have not previously used this application portal, create an account before beginning. For questions, email artisancoordinator@craftlakecity.com or call 801-906-8521.