We seriously love our Meet the Maker series—it’s a chance to step beyond the art and get to know the incredible people behind the pieces. It brings a deeper appreciation for their work and reminds us why we’re so proud to represent them.
One artisan who continues to inspire and delight us is Houston Llew. If you know his work, you already understand why. His Spiritiles speak volumes—full of charm, wisdom, and an unmistakable warmth that resonates deeply with so many collectors. And let us tell you, when we sent over our list of questions, Houston didn’t just answer them—he illuminated them.
It came as no surprise that one of our all-time favorite makers is humble, deeply values meaningful connection, and holds family at the center of it all. Add in a hearty dose of old-fashioned grit, endless curiosity, and a grin that doesn’t quit, and you’ve got the very essence of what makes Houston—and his work—so unforgettable.
Here is what Houston shared with us:
TGTG: Book you’re reading right now?
HL: Treasure Island, for maybe the seventh time. I cracked it open again at the beach. It’s kind of like rerunning a favorite show—you already know the twists, but that doesn’t take away the thrill. The sound of waves in the background just elevates the whole experience.
TGTG: Wisdom you're living by right now?
HL: "Good"
Literally wearing the t-shirt as I type this.
https://youtu.be/IdTMDpizis8?
It’s a mantra that’s been showing up in our studio a lot lately—acknowledging challenges, then pivoting toward action without complaint. “Didn’t go as planned? Good. What can we learn from it?” There’s clarity in that.
TGTG: Dream collaboration?
HL: Too easy: the people I work with every day.
You, Lauren, and the artisans at our studio ... That’s the dream. Building something meaningful with people we trust and respect beats chasing “big name” partnerships any day.
TGTG: Where do ideas usually strike?
HL: No set time or place.
The Muse is unpredictable—she shows up unannounced and leaves just as quickly. So I try to keep a notepad handy at all times. If I don’t write it down, odds are she takes her idea with her.
TGTG: What would you tell yourself 20 years ago?
HL: Nothing. I’d just watch, maybe shake my head now and then… but I wouldn’t risk disturbing the path.
TGTG: Person(s) you'd invite to dinner?
HL: Lauren, Rosser and Henry
If someone sends me a dinner invite, I assume they meant all of us. I could be in a meeting with the governor—if one of them calls, I’m answering.
TGTG: Worst advice you've ever received about business?
HL: “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
That mindset kills innovation. It assumes we wait for problems to show themselves before we evolve. Better to pay the debt now.
TGTG: Favorite way to unwind after a long day in the studio?
HL: Shut it off. Phones, computers—just power down. Focus on being present and seeing what really matters.
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Meet the Maker: Houston Llew, the Artist Behind Spiritiles
