Meet George and Martha Butterfield: Cultivating Creativity and Community at OCAD U

George and Martha Butterfield have generously donated over $1.1 million to OCAD U. In the year 2000, after a transformative gift towards the Ideas Need Space Campaign, Butterfield Park was named in their honour.  Their recent gift of $500,000 played a pivotal role in kicking off the Butterfield Park Revitalization campaign. This significant contribution underscores their dedication to creating vibrant and sustainable spaces for creativity, learning and community engagement.

Butterfield Park: A Green Hub for Art and Design 

Situated beneath the iconic "tabletop" of the Rosalie Sharp Centre for Design, Butterfield Park serves as a crucial link between OCAD U and the surrounding neighbourhoods, including the much-loved Grange Park. The park's revitalization, propelled by the Butterfields' support, will transform it into OCAD U’s premier outdoor destination for showcasing art and design, offering both students and the public a place for gathering, inspiration and contemplation.  

A Vision for Community and Sustainability 

Martha and George’s vision for Butterfield Park emphasizes the extension of beauty and creativity beyond traditional forms to the environment, highlighting the importance of sustainable and accessible outdoor spaces. The campaign to revitalize Butterfield Park reflects a shared commitment to fostering human connection, green landscapes and community well-being. 

Legacy of Support and Inspiration 

The Butterfields' contributions to OCAD University and the creation of Butterfield Park exemplify their belief and support in the transformative power of art and design in society. Their philanthropy not only enhances the University's campus, but also enriches Toronto's cultural and environmental landscape. 
 
What motivated the Butterfields to support OCAD U? 

“As beauty extends beyond the canvas, sculpture, the classroom and other art forms to the environment, we are excited to support a sustainable outside space for contemplation and creativity.” 

- Martha Butterfield