Houston Llew Spiritiles: Guiding Light

“yours is the light by which my spirit’s born: yours is the darkness of my soul’s return—you are my sun,my moon,and all my stars” —E. E. Cummings

Every Spiritile has its own story that inspires, uplifts, and brings a hopeful connection to life. Handcrafted in Atlanta, each is made with finely ground colored glass that is handpainted, fused to copper in a kiln at 1500 degrees, and then wrapped around a wooden frame (see more here). Spiritiles can be hung on the wall or displayed freestanding, and withstand direct sun, humidity, and even outdoor conditions. Care and hanging information here.

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Artist Statement About This Piece: “Like this,” the silhouette said, gently lifting the light toward the sky. The smaller one to the left looked on, taking cues from the arms delicately holding the glowing lantern up high, set to release. This symbol of remembrance, of love lifted up over the water, ready to ascend to the heavens and return to the earth, with its flame finished, but its significance still burning bright. These lights that we ignite in our life are more than little flames. They are the emblems of who and what guide us in our journey by helping us to remember the past, to seize the present, and to create the future.—Why is the story on the sides of ‘Guiding Light’ written so differently? This story is a section of E. E. Cummings’ #38 of 73 poems. Whereas many have shortened the verse, Houston chose to keep the story as written: syntax, punctuation, and all. The rich language hidden within Cummings’ poetry is profound and layered. It is at once a celebration, a remembrance, an appreciation, a deep rooted love. Pinning down a single meaning to this poem is inconceivable, as it can mean so much to each reader.

Product: 243 Guiding Light
Dimensions: 5.25"w x 8.5"h x 1.75"d 
Release: August 13, 2019, Fall 2019 Collection

  MADE IN USA

ABOUT THE ARTIST 

Houston Llew
Charleston, South Carolina

Through fortuitous circumstances, Spiritiles creator Houston Llew met the master enamelist Zingaro and learned the craft of glass enameling. His artistry has evolved from enameled imagery to a combined image and story design. This has become the cornerstone of his work.