Ian Butz

For me, art is a constructive way to express myself and explore issues that I care about, like politics, equality, and the environment. As an undergraduate art student at Muhlenberg College, I had opportunities to draw, paint, photograph, make prints and make videos. I also explored three dimensional wall-hung mixed media projects. 

I am currently in the Master of Fine Arts program at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, where I have continued to explore painting, mixed media, and photography. Following graduation from PAFA in May, 2025, I plan to stay in Philadelphia and make art. 

Influences on my practice include experiencing the natural environment as a hiker, living in Philadelphia, and reading the news. Being in nature helps me imagine what American landscapes looked like before European settlers arrived. I believe that art is an effective way to express my personal feelings about societal issues and is an essential outlet for my survival. I want to create art that illustrates societal and political issues in the hope viewers will think more deeply about our role in advancing equality and equity.