Adam Mayhew

Adam Mayhew’s sculptural practice merges with his work life as a coach and handyman with his  interest in Japanese art and irezumi. Using discarded automotive components, particularly brake lights, he etches traditional tattoo imagery into industrial materials, treating mechanical surfaces as a surrogate body. The red translucent plastic evokes flesh, heat, and warning, referencing both tattooing and mechanical repair processes of cutting, marking, and preservation. By combining traditional symbolism with functional objects, the work explores identity, labour, and the overlap between craft, industry and cultural meaning.