Japanese Artist Izumi Kato Collaborates with Sculpture Milwaukee
When Sculpture Milwaukee's Executive Director and Curator John Riepenhoff asked Japanese artist Izumi Kato for permission to use a close-up of his sculpture “Untitled (2024)”—displayed near the Milwaukee Art Museum from June 2024 until last month—as artwork for a new beer label, the artist happily agreed.
The vivid image, viewed by over three million people during the installation’s run, now appears on cans of Kato Candy IPA. The beer, brewed by Waunakee-based Untitled Art, has been released to support Sculpture Milwaukee’s fundraiser initiative.
“I’m very happy that my work has been seen by so many people. My art doesn’t contain social commentary, and my creativity is deeply personal,” Kato said. “Still, I always hope that my work is open to anyone, including those outside the art world. I want each viewer to interpret it in their own way.”
Kato expressed his excitement about participating in a project that merges contemporary art with Milwaukee’s vibrant beer culture.
“I’m honored to be part of this project, promoting the beer culture of Milwaukee as a collaborator. I hope people all over the country will enjoy this delicious beer,”
As a playful condition, Kato asked Riepenhoff to send a shipment of the new IPA—a twist on Untitled Art’s well-known Cotton Candy IPA—to his Tokyo studio.
Author’s summary
Japanese artist Izumi Kato lent his sculpture’s imagery to a special beer label, blending art and brewing culture while supporting Sculpture Milwaukee.