About Mary Louise Butterworth

Aberdeen Artist and Painter

Mary Louise Butterworth is a self-taught Scottish artist working from her studio in the West End of Aberdeen. Raised in a family where art and creativity were part of everyday life, she developed an instinctive appreciation for observing the world through an artistic lens. Her paintings have been exhibited extensively across the North East of Scotland, alongside selected exhibitions in Edinburgh and London, and is held in private collections internationally.  A graduate of the University of Edinburgh with a joint honours degree in Psychology and Philosophy, Mary's interest in perception, memory, and the relationship between people and their environments continues to influence her artistic practice

Artist Statement — Atmospheric Paintings Inspired by Light, Place & Memory

In my work I create atmosphere, mood, and spaces for contemplation, reflection, and solace. Having been raised in the countryside and now living in the city, I am drawn to both urban and rural settings and fascinated by the distinct qualities of light that contribute to a sense of place and stir emotion.

Often, I feel I am setting the stage for the viewer to play out their own story - creating places to escape to and inviting the viewer to pause, reflect, and form their own connection with the work. I love for my paintings to draw people in and transport them elsewhere.

Late-night street lights, the last moments of dusk on the coast, forgotten places, our connection with the natural world, and the meanings held within objects have been recurring themes throughout my practice.

Alongside painting, I explore other mediums and creative approaches, allowing my practice to evolve through experimentation and curiosity. Through works on paper, experimental pieces, and sculptural or installation-based work, I continue to investigate light, atmosphere, emotion, memory, and our relationship with our environment

Commissions

I undertake a limited number of private commissions every year, creating bespoke paintings for clients inspired by meaningful places, landscapes, and personal stories. For commission enquiries, please get in touch directly or contact The Butterworth Gallery.

The standard timeframe for commissions can be up to 6 months though this is dependent upon the current waiting list.  The Butterworth Gallery offers a special gift account or wedding account which guests and friends can contribute to.  Here are some client testimonials:

My studio in the West End of Aberdeen is available for private visits and viewings by appointment. It is an opportunity to experience the work in person, view available original artwork, and discuss commissions in a relaxed setting. If you would like to arrange a visit or learn more about my work, please get in touch.

Artworks Currently on Display

• The Butterworth Gallery
• Gallery Heinzel

Testimonials

"We had fallen in love with Mary's style of painting, amazed that we had finally found an artist whom we both loved! We had not thought about gift vouchers at an art gallery as a wedding present choice, but when we found out about the possibility, it was perfect. The Butterworth family were so helpful and our guests found the service easy to use, many were organising it from Denmark and were really happy with the helpful and friendly service.  We were lucky enough to be able to buy an original painting which was the icing on our wedding cake. We both couldn't recommend highly enough the Butterworth Gallery for your wedding list, we only wish we could do it again so we could get another painting for our collection!" Arlene and Casper

"The picture itself is exceptional, you have managed to keep the picture true to the scene yet have enhanced all the best bits - the light dappling through the trees and the reflections of light in the water are the best we have ever seen and despite our intimate knowledge of all your previous pieces, surpassed all our expectations!...When we first saw the painting I couldn't help bursting into tears it was so good and we are bursting with pride and joy at having such an amazing piece represent such a special day in our lives...it will be a constant reminder of our wedding day and all the friends and family who have contributed to it..."  Ben and Kim