New Exhibit Premieres at Tang Museum

SARATOGA SPRINGS — The Tang Museum was full of life on Valentine’s Day as the community came together to appreciate the work of Kathy Butterly.

The Tang Museum at Skidmore College recently debuted the exhibit “Kathy Butterly: Assume Yes,” which displays 50 of Butterly’s works. Opening night included a brief discussion between Butterly and Tang Museum Director Ian Berry. They covered a vast array of topics, ranging from Butterly’s intent and emotions when creating her art, to the inspiration she takes from the world around her. 

The brightly-colored artwork made its new home atop massive white platforms that added volume to the exhibit and brought Butterly’s talent to eye level. When asked about her goal in displaying her work in such a way, Butterly responded, “My world is right here, a few inches in front of my eyes. Most of my life is this very world. I want you to see the world that I’m in from my vantage point.”

Butterly’s work is a unique blend of emotion, life, and style that draws the viewer into her mind and heart. Butterly has used events like 9/11 and the election of Barack Obama as inspiration. These moments define the style and shape of her pieces and serve as a reflection of her emotions.

“When I’m making work, I don’t have this in my head,” Butterly said. “I’m just kind of filtering how I’m feeling and what’s going on in the world.”

“Kathy Butterly: Assume Yes” is on view at the Tang until July 26.