About Us
Artisan Autoworks was built on a different way of thinking about automotive service—one shaped by experience in design, construction, and a deep respect for how things are made.
Before entering the automotive industry, our work was rooted in product design, collaborating with brands such as Adidas, John Varvatos, Lucky Brand, Ralph Lauren RRL, Reebok, and Scion Motorcar Company, to name just a few. In those environments, every detail mattered—materials, proportion, construction, and how a product ultimately functioned in the real world. Good design wasn’t added at the end; it was the result of resolving a problem correctly from the beginning.
That foundation carries directly into the way we approach automotive work today.
At Artisan Autoworks, we don’t begin with parts—we begin with the problem. Each vehicle is evaluated with the goal of identifying the root cause, not just addressing symptoms. From there, we develop solutions that are complete, efficient, and built to hold up over time.
Our work is guided by a simple principle:
A well-resolved solution should function properly and feel right in its execution.
That means:
- Clean, intentional repairs
- Thoughtful routing and assembly
- Respect for materials and system design
- No unnecessary complexity or shortcuts
Whether it’s routine service or more involved diagnostics, the approach remains the same. The goal is not just to fix vehicles, but to resolve them in a way that reflects a higher standard of thought and craftsmanship.
Artisan Autoworks exists for clients who recognize and value that difference.
OUR STORY
In 2019, Sean made the journey back from California to join forces with his father, Kevin, in the creation of an auto shop. The blueprint was simple, combine Kevin's 40 years of automotive shop running experience with Sean's background in design and business to provide customers with the best experience and service for their vehicles. To focus on treating people fairly and honestly, and to provide an unmatched level of quality and attention to detail.
Settling in historic downtown Manchester New Hampshire, South Elm Automotive became the bustling hub of operations. The shop was inundated with customers and the team hit the ground running. Sean parked two Defender 90's out front and the phone calls began to roll in.
The trucks signaled a new era, and the flood of customers confirmed the duo's approach was striking a chord. However, managing a bustling late-model auto repair shop and a vintage Land Rover-specific business in the same space—soon revealed logistical challenges.
In 2023, South Elm decided to expand its horizons, finding a second home within the brick walls of a 1900s warehouse about a mile away. The longtime home of M&M Auto and Sarette Automotive, giving birth to Artisan Autoworks. Now with the continued the growth of the Vintage Land Rover business, the team also had the space to continue growing the daily repair business. Led by Jeff Oliver, the former lead technician at South Elm, Artisan had everything they needed to hit the ground running. The new shop was fully equipped with a comfortable waiting room, 8 bays of workspace and 3 lifts, giving the opportunity to serve the local auto repair population from 2 locations. With South Elm Automotive continuing to operate alongside Artisan Autoworks there was now the opportunity to support the growing enterprise.
While much has changed, the commitment has remained the same. Artisan continues to offer its clients the highest quality workmanship, an excellent dealership alternative, and an approachable fair and transparent attitude.