The gallery’s founder and fearless leader, Jan Miller, had a dream when she and her husband purchased the building in 1998, to establish a place for some of the area’s finest artists to exhibit their work, and feel free to experiment with mediums and approaches to their art, without the constraints of a traditional gallery. They renovated the entire building, using the second floor for long term rental apartments. Although they sold the building in 2014, Jan was determined to have the gallery continue, and now leases the space from the current owners.

Flooded in both hurricanes Matthew and Irma, the gallery and its’ artists persevered. It is a testament to the success of the gallery’s concept and Jan’s leadership that the group remained together during the major rebuild post-Matthew, and the additional repairs post-Irma.

The “Garage” was built in 1927. After purchasing the building in 1998 Jan and Max found the original neon sign still in working condition and “Butterfield Garage Art Gallery’ was born!  Over the past 20 years Butterfield Garage has become recognized for its high level of professionalism and it’s exhibiting artists, and is the “go to” place to find quality local art and contemporary craft. As an artist-run gallery, Butterfield Garage offers direct accessibility and dialogue among artists, patrons and our Northeast Florida community. It hosts ongoing and changing exhibitions monthly, along with artist talks by member artists, contributing to the Art Spirit that is a big part of the ambience of St. Augustine. 

Over the years, a total of 130 local artists have called Butterfield Garage Gallery home. A committee of member artists review applications and interview prospective new artists to ensure Butterfield’s standards of excellence are maintained, and it is considered a privilege to be selected into the group.

 Now an amazing 20 years later, Butterfield Garage continues as a leader in St. Augustine for original art created by local professional artists.  Boasting 32 artists and a wide variety of styles and media, including paintings, sculpture, handmade furniture, custom designed scarves and textiles, handbags, jewelry, mixed media, baskets, photography, mosaics, ceramics, wood crafting, batik art, and etchings.

 Butterfield Garage artists invite everyone to come join in the celebration of their 20 years – and counting as a leading gallery in St. Augustine!