Solo Whisper – by Houston Vandergriff

THE IMAGE – The steam from the hydrothermal feature covers all other details of the landscape. Only a lone tree remains in view. There are many subliminal stories that can be assumed by this solo tree standing in the foggy morning.

But the best story is the real story behind this image.

Houston was visiting Yellowstone National Park to do a 5K trail run as part of the Destination Vacation Race Program with friends and family. When the starting gun sounded runners from across the country took off. They all passed by Houston, every single one. He finished the race – dead last. But, except for the volunteers packing up from the event, you would have never known it. He crossed the finish line with his bib number displayed proudly and his arms raised in victory. Houston has Down syndrome and may not ever be much of a trail runner. But his naturally stubborn determination is one of his superpowers. After the “race,” he grabbed his camera and set off to photograph scenery in the National Park. This is when he captured this image - Solo Whisper.

THE PHOTOGRAPHER – Advocate. Artist. Traveler. Dreamer. Houston Vandergriff is a globe-trotting travel photographer based in Knoxville, Tennessee. Houston has Down syndrome and inspires others, both inside and outside of the disability community. He is a social media influencer - using TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to share his story. He has traveled to 26 countries. His photography journey has been shared in Newsweek, It’s Gone Viral, Aljazeera, Transcontinental Times, and MSN. His award-winning photography has been displayed in solo and group curated shows, gallery shows in three countries, and featured in arts and travel magazines. He was awarded the 2020 International Photographer in the “My Perspective” photo competition in the UK.

THE LICENSE – Extended Editorial: Can be used to display privately, in commercial and non-commercial settings, or in groups with an unlimited number of participants. The license includes unlimited use and display in virtual or physical galleries, documentaries, and essays by the NFT holder. Provides no rights to create commercial merchandise, commercial distribution, or derivative works.