Houston Vandergriff
Artist
Houston Vandergriff (aka Downs & Towns) is a globe-trotting travel photographer from Knoxville, Tennessee. His camera has taken him across all 50 U.S. states, every county in Tennessee, and more than 30 countries. Born with Down syndrome, Houston may have limited speech, but through his photography, he has found a powerful way to communicate how he sees the world.
Houston photographs with curiosity, joy, and an eye for the moments other people might pass by. His work moves from sweeping landscapes and faraway adventures to quiet details, unexpected humor, and the wonderfully ordinary scenes that make a place feel alive.
Whether he is chasing the northern lights in Finland, exploring a volcano in Hawaiʻi, or wandering a small town with his camera, Houston reminds us that a different perspective changes everything.
Houston's photography has appeared in exhibitions around the world. In 2026, he served as an Artist in Residence at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. He has been named one of Professional Photographers of America’s “30 Under 30,” and one of his photographs now rests on the Moon - which makes Marfa feel practically local.
Through Downs & Towns, Houston combines art, adventure, and advocacy to help make travel and creative spaces more welcoming to everyone.
Houston proves the world is better when everyone is part of the picture.
He is always ready for the next photograph, the next country, and the next great adventure.
Technique
Digital + physical / travel photography & fine art prints
Made with: Nikon D850, Nikon D7100, Nikon Z50ii, Nikon Z50