Ben Butler is an Atlanta-based queer artist, illustrator, and puppeteer working under the creative banner Happy Cup Studio. Known throughout Atlanta’s independent arts community for his vibrant and inclusive visual language, Butler creates whimsical character-driven work that blends illustration, puppetry, mixed media, and performance.

His practice embraces humor, identity, community, and playful experimentation through colorful compositions, handmade objects, original characters, and custom Pride-centered artwork. Drawing influence from underground comics, queer culture, DIY craft traditions, and contemporary character design, Butler’s work celebrates joy, self-expression, and imaginative storytelling.

Alongside his illustration practice, Butler is an active member of Atlanta’s puppetry community, building and performing original puppet creations for local showcases and events connected to Center for Puppetry Arts and independent arts programming throughout the city. Through Happy Cup Studio, he continues to cultivate a multidisciplinary practice rooted in creativity, inclusivity, and community engagement.