Bringing Smiles and Artistry to Western New York: The Story of Badger and Butterfly Studios

Bonnie Bennett isn’t just painting faces — she’s making memories and spreading joy

By: Johanna Elattar

In the heart of Western New York, Bonnie Bennett has created something truly special with her business, Badger and Butterfly Face Studios. As a disabled mother of two, Bonnie built this business from the ground up, transforming her love of art into a meaningful career. Through face painting, she brings joy and creativity to her community, while finding a sense of purpose in a journey that has been marked by perseverance and passion.

Bonnie and her husband, who have been married for 13 years, are raising their two children, River and Willow, and homeschooling them so they can spend more time together as a family. The family-oriented spirit is woven into the very fabric of Badger and Butterfly Studios, which initially began as a business selling crystals such as amethyst and garnet. However, Bonnie’s lifelong love for art soon led her to expand into face painting, which has become the heart and soul of her work.

“Art has always been a part of me,” Bonnie says. “I probably had a paintbrush in my hand as soon as I could hold something.” Her artistic talents have deep roots, nurtured by her family’s legacy in Western New York. Her great-grandfather, “Yum” Anderson, coined the phrase “The Enchanted Mountains,” while her grandmother June McGee ran a successful local restaurant. Growing up surrounded by family who contributed to their community, Bonnie was inspired to make her own mark — and she’s done just that through her business, which has become a local favorite.

Face painting allows Bonnie to not only share her artistic skills but also to connect with people in a unique and personal way. She loves to get each person in her chair and make them feel special, creating custom designs that reflect their personality or favorite character. “What I was doing mattered,” Bonnie says, “making a child smile.” That sense of purpose has been a driving force behind her success, and it’s what motivates her to continue learning and growing as an artist.

Together with her husband, who offers airbrush tattoos alongside her, Bonnie brings smiles to countless faces at local festivals, parties, and community events. Recently, they were at the Hornell Fall Fest on October 12th, sharing their talents and spreading joy. The couple works as a team, and their combined efforts have made Badger and Butterfly Studios a popular feature at events across Western New York.

Building this business wasn’t easy, especially given Bonnie’s physical challenges. After an accident left her with two herniated discs, she had to give up her dream of becoming a nurse. But rather than give in to despair, Bonnie turned to her first love — art. With degrees in Studio Arts from Jamestown Community College and a BFA in Graphic Design from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, Bonnie channeled her energy into creating something new. Though she had formal training, she taught herself face painting, studying top body artists and practicing extensively to master the craft.

The name of the business, Badger and Butterfly, holds special meaning for the family. Bonnie’s husband, who is part Native American, received the name “Badger” during a tribal naming ceremony, honoring his cultural heritage. The butterfly, representing transformation and beauty, symbolizes Bonnie’s journey as an artist and entrepreneur, building a business that gives her purpose and fulfills her passion.

For Bonnie, the work she does is more than just a business — it’s a calling. “We all have stories as business owners — the love we’ve shared, the adversity we’ve overcome,” she says. Her story is one of resilience, dedication, and love for her family and community. Being able to build a successful business as a disabled mother has given her life a renewed sense of purpose, and her art brings happiness to those around her.

Each face she paints, each smile she creates, is a testament to the impact she’s had on the people of Western New York. Whether at a small gathering or a large festival, Bonnie’s artistry leaves a lasting impression. Her attention to detail, her personal connection with each client, and her infectious passion for her craft have made Badger and Butterfly Studios a beloved part of the community.

Bonnie’s story is an inspiring reminder that, no matter the obstacles, it’s possible to build something meaningful and beautiful. Through her work, she’s not just painting faces — she’s making memories and spreading joy. And for Bonnie Bennett, that’s what matters most.

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