Beyond Beauty: the Deep Symbolism of Butterflies
There’s something about butterflies that stirs my soul. Maybe it's their delicate wings or the way they flutter and dance through the air. Or maybe it's the symbolism they carry with them. And perhaps a bit of an inherited passion stems from my father, who loved taking photographs of these ethereal creatures. As an artist, I love that there are thousands of species of butterflies, each with their own unique patterns, colours, and shapes representing the diverse nuances of life. And, with every brushstroke, I feel as though I am not only capturing their exquisite beauty but also a little bit of their magic and that sense of wonder that continues to inspire artists and enthusiasts today.
BUTTERFLY SYMBOLISM
Butterflies have been admired for centuries as an emblem of positivity, transformation and spiritual growth. In ancient Egypt, for example, they represented the soul's journey in the afterlife, fluttering between the physical and the spiritual worlds. In Greek mythology, the goddess of the soul, Psyche —whose name means “soul”—was often depicted as a beautiful woman with butterfly wings. Today, in many cultures and religions around the world, butterflies are still seen as a sign of rebirth, fresh beginnings, and the potential for change.
The amazing thing is, with over 17,000 species of butterflies around the world, each one tells its own story and adds to a bigger, more meaningful message: that even in the hardest times, there’s still hope and the chance that something beautiful might be just around the corner.
A SYMBOL OF FLEETING TIME
Most butterflies live only a short while, with the Monarch being a rare exception living between two weeks and eight months. Their brief lives make their symbolism even more poignant: a reminder of how precious and fleeting time is. They teach us to slow down, to be present, and to find beauty in the now.
A SYMBOL OF AUTHENTICITY
The butterfly's remarkable metamorphosis from caterpillar to winged marvel, is a perfect metaphor for personal growth. It shows us that that we can all break free from the “cocoons” of fear, doubt, or limitations that hold us back. It’s about embracing your true self and the freedom that comes with being unapologetically authentic.
A SYMBOL OF SPIRITUAL MESSAGING
In many traditions, butterflies are believed to be messengers from the spiritual world. If one repeatedly crosses your path, it might be more than coincidence. Some believe it’s a sign that a guardian angel or loved one who has passed is near, offering comfort and guidance, to let you know you are never alone.
A SYMBOL OF EXPANSION
Caterpillars cannot see shapes or colours, and they are only able to differentiate between light and dark shades. However, as they transition to butterflies, they develop more complex eyesight and can see ultraviolet light, which we humans cannot. Spiritually, this symbolises the expansion of awareness. Butterflies gently encourage us to open our eyes and minds to a wider perspective and deeper understanding.
A SYMBOL OF LUCK
Blue butterflies, in particular, are often associated with luck and positive change. Their rarity in the natural world makes spotting one feel special, like a tiny blessing. The colour blue itself evokes feelings of calm and renewal. So, when a blue butterfly appears, it may be a quiet nudge that good things are on their way, or that you’re entering a time of emotional healing.
A SYMBOL OF REBIRTH
The black butterfly is often seen as a symbol of rebirth. It marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another, an encouragement to let go of what no longer serves us. If a black butterfly appears in your dreams, it could be your subconscious telling you that it’s time to let go of the past and move forward with courage and optimism.
A SYMBOL OF LOVE
In many cultures, butterflies also represent love. In Chinese tradition, for example, they represent marital happiness and are often featured in art and folklore as emblems of joy and harmony in relationships. Just like a caterpillar becomes a butterfly, love too can blossom into something beautiful and an ever-lasting bond when it's nurtured.
“If nothing ever changed, there would be no such things as butterflies.”
THE SIGN OF CHANGE, BEAUTY AND NEW BEGINNINGS
It’s clear that butterflies have captured our collective imagination for centuries. Their journey from crawling caterpillar to winged beauties is nothing short of miraculous.
Throughout history, butterflies have also been a source of inspiration to many artists: from the vivid strokes of Vincent van Gogh's "Butterflies and Poppies" to the dreamlike compositions of Odilon Redon's "Butterflies" series, these fragile creatures have fluttered their way into countless works of art. One of my personal favourites is Maria Sybilla Merian, whose detailed studies of insects in the 17th century merged art and science so beautifully.
In paintings, butterflies often symbolise the fleeting nature of life, the soul's journey after death or our longing for freedom. For me, they also represent an invitation: to look closer, to pay attention to what often goes unnoticed, and to remember that meaningful change always begins with believing in ourselves.
So next time you see one flutter by, take a moment. Think of all it has been through to become what it is. Let it remind you to never give up hope, that transformation is always possible. And that sometimes, beauty appears in the most unexpected places.
