Japanese artist Izumi Kato shares artwork for Sculpture Milwaukee-Untitled Art beer

Japanese Artist Izumi Kato Collaborates on Sculpture Milwaukee Beer

When Sculpture Milwaukee 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 October 2025—as artwork for a beer can label, Kato readily agreed.

The vibrant image, viewed by over three million visitors during the sculpture's installation, now decorates the label of the newly released Kato Candy IPA. This beer, brewed by Waunakee-based Untitled Art, serves as a fundraiser for Sculpture Milwaukee.

“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. 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.”

There was one special request: Kato asked Riepenhoff to send some of the beer—a variant of Untitled Art’s popular Cotton Candy IPA—to his studio in Tokyo.

Key Facts

This collaboration blends contemporary art with Milwaukee’s vibrant craft beer scene, offering a unique cultural and sensory experience.

Would you like the tone to be more formal or casual?

more

OnMilwaukee OnMilwaukee — 2025-11-04

More News