Degree: Painting
University: University for the Creative Arts
Graduation Year: 2024
Paul Butterworth, a 2024 graduate of the University for the Creative Arts, made a notable impression with his solo show at Cambridge Art Space in 2023, an exceptional accomplishment for an artist yet to complete his studies. His work celebrates colour and emotion, embodying his belief in art’s transformative power.
Butterworth describes his work as centred on joy, aiming to “make your soul sing.” His canvases, which he calls “visual villanelles” or “colour symphonies,” combine structured composition with spontaneous expression. He views colour as a sculptural medium, creating a physical, visceral experience that constantly evolves. His goal is to envelop viewers in happiness, likening the sensation to “having a shower in a rainbow.”
Butterworth’s exploration of colour can be seen as comparable to the practices of contemporary artists like Yinka Shonibare and David Batchelor. Shonibare’s vibrant use of colour often explores themes of identity and post-colonialism, while Butterworth focuses on eliciting joy and a sense of universal connection. Similarly, Batchelor’s examination of the materiality and philosophy of colour resonates with Butterworth’s approach, treating colour as a substantial, emotive force.
In this tradition, Butterworth uses colour as a language to convey deep emotions, inviting viewers to experience a space of pure, unadulterated joy.
My subject is joy... I want my paintings to go out into the world and make your soul sing. I work directly onto the canvas creating a visual villanelle or colour symphony. My work has structure, it is composed, but it is also free and in the moment.
I 'see' colour as a material to be sculpted into subconscious meaning. Colour is physical, visceral, and ever changing. My aim is to connect and fill your soul with happiness like having a shower in a rainbow.
(2023) Drama of Colours, Cambridge Art Space, Cambridge
(2024) Coastline Art Exhibition, The Garage Studio Art Gallery, Ringstead
(2023) 39th Annual Open, Southwark Park Galleries, London
(2023) Christmas exhibition, Mercer, Harrogate
(2023) Graduation Open Call, D31, Doncaster
(2022) Open Call, The Bowery, Headingly
(2024) Beep Painting Biennial - Long Listed
(2024) GreenwichArt Investment Abstract - Best in show
(2024) The Graduate Art Show - Finalist