Art shows reshape memory and myth in modern sculpture

What's happened

A wave of makers is pushing traditional crafts into contemporary art, turning everyday objects into installations. Katayama, Joo and Fitzpatrick explore memory, myth and identity through sculpture, embroidery and print, creating bold, playful works that reimagine the ordinary.

What's behind the headline?

Insightful analysis of the shift in craft-led art

Craft as contemporary discourse: Artists are expanding from traditional craft into installation and sculpture, leveraging found materials and textile techniques to address memory and identity.
Myth as method: Embroidery, ceramics and print translate folklore and folklore-inspired motifs into contemporary forms, making hidden histories visible.
Public installation dynamics: Works engage spaces and spectators, using wall-works, floor pieces and sculptures to disrupt conventional museum viewing.

This reflects a broader trend where the boundaries between craft, sculpture and archival storytelling are blurring, offering audiences tactile, narrative-rich experiences.

How we got here

The three artists featured—Katayama (Japan/US), Woo Jin Joo (Korea/UK) and Jamie Fitzpatrick (Scotland)—are forging new paths in sculpture, embroidery and print. Their recent shows and upcoming exhibitions emphasize revaluing craft, found objects and myth to reveal personal and cultural identity.

Our analysis

The Guardian profiles show the artists’ backgrounds and approaches; The Scotsman reviews Edinburgh Printmakers’ festival installations; Japan Times highlights Katayama’s tree-of-life installations.

Go deeper

Will these works influence how we value everyday objects in art
How do current exhibitions frame the relationship between tradition and innovation?
What new materials will artists explore next?