Houston Llew Spiritiles: Sterling

“We have always been and always will be friends. That in itself is a tremendous thing.” —A.A. Milne & E.B. White

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: The second of two very special Spiritiles released in honor of Houston’s second-born son. ‘Sterling’ is dedicated from Houston’s first born son to his new baby brother, and is a representation of the power of lifelong friendship. The name ‘Sterling’ comes from the nickname Houston’s oldest son gave to his soon-to-be-born baby brother. The story is a mixing of two quotes—the left side from A.A. Milne, the right side from E.B. White, combined to show the efforts of two becoming one. Read below for Houston’s release announcement of Spiritiles 238 ‘Fulfillment’ and 239 ‘Sterling.’

“Three years ago, I was scared and overjoyed to welcome my first child into the world. He took life by the wing and pulled my wife and me into a new world, making the face of our days completely new. When we learned we would welcome another child this year, my oldest became so excited to have a friend like him join our family. Along the way, one day I was designing new Spiritiles in my workshop when my son wandered in to see what I was doing. He saw the elephants Spiritile design, loved it (he loves animals!), and asked if he could give it to his soon-to-be-born baby brother. “Of course,” I said. “In fact, you can give him this very first one.” It was his turn to be overjoyed. When the time came for my second son to be born, I wasn’t nearly as scared. My oldest was testament that I could keep a child alive, love them, and teach them to love in return. It is with this feeling of fulfillment and unwavering joy that I release these two Spiritiles as a humble gift—the first from me, the second from my oldest—to the newest love of my life. My son, thanks to you, your mother, and your new best friend of a brother, my life is made complete.” —Houston Llew

Product: 239 Sterling
Dimensions: 5.25"w x 8.5"h x 1.75"d 
Release: July 30, 2019, Surprise II 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.