Paul Butterfield grew up in Monticello and spent the greater part of his childhood, and later, time with his twin boys, exploring hidden canyons and crevices of Moab, Canyonlands and the high desert of Southeastern Utah.
Those remote areas, the rock formations, big blue sky, rivers and streams, and the culture and artisan works of the Navajo Nation, are the heart and soul of the paintings now displayed in his gallery on Helper’s Main Street.
The Paul Redd-Butterfield Art Gallery opened last month, the first abstract art gallery in Helper, and invites art enthusiasts and the community to explore their own backyard and revisit the rare beauty of the surrounding landscape recreated by the Utah native.
Nature inspires and informs Butterfield’s work, which he says surprises some people because it is not traditional landscape painting, but abstract representations that evoke the emotions and majesty of awe-inspiring places. He said the red-rock and white sandstone formations ground him both as a person and an artist, and are a constant inspiration in his work. He adds that the abstract style allows for a unique conversation with the audience.
“I want my paintings to communicate the juxtaposition that exists in places such as Moab – the bright, intense fields of color and electric energy, but also the deep peace and tranquility,” he said. “Abstract art allows me to communicate differently than a landscape artist – I hope they feel both the vibrance and the peace – the full array of emotions these places evoke, as well as their beauty.”
Butterfield’s paintings are created through acrylic paint mediums on canvas and wood using multiple techniques including textures, high gloss, and crackled effects. One technique includes Butterfield creating graphic designs on the computer which then programs a laser to cut the design into a completed painting. This technique forms an overlay of fluid lines, like a topographical map, intertwining with vibrant and evocative colors that speak volumes to those familiar with the beauty of the water-pocket fold.
The artist wants his gallery to be a place where people feel welcome to come and experience his paintings on their own terms, and invites everyone from the surrounding community.
Not everyone is interested in or able to buy art they like, he said, but knowing they connected with a painting or found something in any of his works that speaks to them, is just as gratifying as selling a painting and what he looks forward to the most from those who visit his gallery.
‘I want people to bring their own view and interpretations to my work so that it has personal meaning to them,” Butterfield said. “One person said that my gallery ‘has good vibes and good energy’ that was the best compliment I could receive. I want people to come and feel the energy I’ve put into my paintings and carry it with them – hopefully maybe with a painting under their arm.”
Butterfield describes some of his paintings as an up-close look of the desert. His paintings are a microcosm of the textures, distinctive, matchless colors, and patterns found in the wide expanse of the desert landscape.
“Finding beauty in places others do not, and representing it on the canvas, really inspires me. Some people look at the desert and see an area devoid of life. I have heard people even say that it’s ugly – which I can’t fathom,” Butterfield said. “But when you look closely, you notice its teaming with life … life that is hardy and to strives to live – life that really want to be there. I think a some people here can relate to that, and I hope they can see that in my work”
Butterfield wanted to thank the artists in Helper and the community, for offering him the greatest hospitality and warmest possible welcome.
“I have experienced an awesome reception from the other artists and the Helper community, “he said. “I really can’t say enough positive things about how supportive, helpful and welcoming everyone has been.”
Butterfield’s work has been featured in galleries and shows throughout Utah, including The Springville Museum of Art, Pilar Pobil Art in the Garden, Bountiful Davis Art Center, Art Access, Guild Hall, Zions Bank gala, and many exhibitions and charity events. He was honored to have Salt Lake Community College purchase several pieces.
The Paul Redd-Butterfield Art Gallery will be open every day of the Helper Art Festival, every first Friday of the month, and most weekends as Butterfield continues to split his time between Helper and raising his boys in Sandy.
Abstract artist opens gallery on Helper Main Street
Artist Paul Butterfield stands inside his new gallery on Helper Main Street during the most recent First Friday. Matt Ward - Sun Advocate Editor