First disabled artist-in-residence at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park calls it ‘milestone of inclusion’

Katie Vandergriff said when her son Houston was born with Down syndrome, the family was “given a long list of things he might never do.”

But Tennessee resident and traveling photographer Houston Vandergriff keeps showcasing what he can do, and this month he became the first artist with a disability selected for the “Artist in Residence” program at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.

He is spending the month immersed in the Big Island landscape defined by fire, resilience, and transformation.

Vandergriff’s work blends travel photography with disability advocacy, and for Houston, the residency represents more than artistic recognition.

“It is a milestone of inclusion,” he said.

Katie Vandergriff added: “To now see him serving as a resident artist in a United States national park is powerful. It represents opportunity and what can happen when communities focus on strengths instead of limitations.”

Houston Vandergriff has had a camera in his hand since childhood.

“Because speech can sometimes be challenging, photography became his voice,” she said, “A way to communicate perspective, emotion and story without words.”

Over time, that passion evolved into professional training, exhibitions, and a growing international audience. At 28, Houston Vandergriff has already amassed more than 400,000 followers across all social media platforms.

He is also an official Nikon Creator partner and uses a professional Nikon mirrorless camera for his work.

His mother adds that his approach of “capturing sweeping landscapes alongside intimate pockets of magic” resonated with park officials, who saw a natural fit between his storytelling style and the volcanoes’ themes of resilience and renewal.

During the residency, Houston Vandergriff witnessed the glow of Kīlauea’s eruption during episode 42, on Feb 15, where lava geysers reached up to 1,200 feet. He described the experience as “breathtaking and surreal.”

“The light and noise were unbelievable,” he said.

Katie Vandergriff said her son approached the eruption with both “awe and respect.”

“On one visit, he waited through fog, cold and driving rain for a break in the weather,” she said. “Shoes, clothing and equipment were soaked. When the rain briefly cleared, he captured images that attempt to convey the energy and force of the moment.”

As part of Houston’s residency with Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, he hosted a public talk-story session at the Kahuku Visitor Contact Station, where he shared how photography became his primary form of expression. He discussed the intersection of travel, art, and advocacy, and encouraged families to reconsider labels and expectations.

“The conversations afterward were priceless,” he said.

Parents and visitors shared how Houston’s story encouraged them.

“We even got to meet a local special education teacher. The human connection is always the highlight for us,” said Katie.

He also plans to release a limited Hawaiʻi Volcanoes Collection of fine art prints inspired by the residency and, in 2026, hopes to expand his national park portfolio, pursue additional international exhibitions, and continue growing his advocacy work through photography.

His favorite photography advice is simple: Have a subject. Draw attention to the subject. Slow down. See the light.

“Magic happens when you are patient,” he said.

He thanked the Hawaiʻi community for their “aloha and for welcoming them so warmly.” He also took a moment to mahalo Goddess Tutu Pele, for “reminding us that strength and beauty can exist together.”

To view Houston’s full photography catalog or to purchase prints, visit his website, “Downs & Towns,” by clicking here.