Japanese Artist Izumi Kato Collaborates on Sculpture Milwaukee Beer Label
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)" for a beer can label, Kato agreed. The sculpture was displayed near the Milwaukee Art Museum from June 2024 until October 2025 and was seen by over three million people during that time.
The vibrant image now appears on the newly released Kato Candy IPA, brewed by Waunakee-based Untitled Art 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. 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.” – Izumi Kato
There was one request from Kato: he asked Riepenhoff to send some of the beer—a variation of Untitled Art’s popular Cotton Candy IPA—to his studio in Tokyo.
About the Kato Candy IPA
- Brewed by Untitled Art in Waunakee, Wisconsin
- Fundraiser for Sculpture Milwaukee
- Features artwork from Izumi Kato’s sculpture “Untitled (2024)”
- Inspired by the Cotton Candy IPA recipe
Artist’s Perspective
Kato emphasizes that while his art is deeply personal and not intended as social commentary, he values open interpretation by viewers both within and beyond the art community.
Collaboration Highlights
This partnership highlights a unique blend of contemporary art and local beer culture, extending Kato’s artwork beyond traditional gallery spaces and into everyday experiences.
Summary: Izumi Kato’s “Untitled (2024)” sculpture image now graces a Milwaukee brewery’s IPA label, fusing personal art with local culture and reaching a nationwide audience.