Meet Susan Lordi: The Creative Soul Behind Willow Tree

Art has the power to communicate emotions, evoke memories, and connect people in ways words cannot. Few artists have mastered this silent yet profound language as beautifully as Susan Lordi, the creative force behind Willow Tree. Her timeless sculptures have resonated with collectors worldwide, offering a sense of warmth, love, and spirituality through simple yet deeply expressive figures.

Susan Lordi: An Artist of Emotion and Simplicity

Susan Lordi is an American artist known for her ability to convey deep sentiment through minimalist yet evocative sculpture. Her background in textiles and design greatly influences her creative process, allowing her to focus on texture, form, and movement to bring her pieces to life.

Since launching the Willow Tree collection in 2000, Lordi’s work has become a staple in homes around the world. Her figures, which often feature softly curved postures, flowing garments, and quiet gestures, communicate themes of love, comfort, and spirituality. By deliberately leaving the faces of her sculptures blank, she allows the viewer to project their own emotions and interpretations onto each piece, making them deeply personal and meaningful.

The Creative Process Behind Willow Tree

Unlike traditional sculptors who start with sketches or clay models, Susan Lordi works directly with her materials, shaping each figure by hand. She meticulously carves every detail—from the curve of a mother’s embrace to the gentle tilt of an angel’s head—ensuring that the essence of emotion is embedded within each piece.

Once sculpted, the figures are carefully replicated in resin and hand-painted to maintain the integrity of Lordi’s original carvings. The use of soft earth tones and subtle textures enhances their organic, handcrafted appeal. This hands-on approach ensures that every Willow Tree piece carries a human touch, a detail that makes them all the more special.

The Symbolism in Willow Tree Figurines

Each Willow Tree piece tells a silent story, one that varies depending on the person who receives or gives it. Some of Lordi’s most cherished works include figures that embody the universal themes of love, family, and healing.

One particularly touching example is the Angel of Healing, which symbolises hope and restoration. Another beloved piece, Together, captures the quiet intimacy between two people, making it a popular choice for anniversaries and romantic gifts.

 

 

 

Susan Lordi’s Influence on Modern Gift-Giving

In a world increasingly dominated by fast-paced consumerism, Susan Lordi has redefined what it means to give a truly meaningful gift. Instead of offering something purely decorative, Willow Tree figurines serve as heartfelt tokens of love, gratitude, and remembrance.

For many, these sculptures become heirlooms, passed down through generations as reminders of special relationships and milestones. Their timeless aesthetic and universal themes make them suitable for a wide range of occasions, from weddings and christenings to moments of sympathy and reflection.

One of the most popular pieces for gift-giving is Guardian Angel, which provides a sense of protection and watchful care. Given as a gift to someone going through a challenging time, this piece serves as a reminder of love and support.

How Willow Tree Captures Life’s Milestones

Susan Lordi’s sculptures are more than just art pieces; they represent life’s significant moments. From welcoming a new baby into the world to remembering a lost loved one, her figurines act as milestones of human experience.

For example, the New Life figurine beautifully encapsulates the tenderness of new parenthood, while Remembrance offers a quiet tribute to those we hold dear in our hearts. These pieces not only capture the emotions tied to these moments but also serve as tangible reminders of the people and experiences that shape our lives.

The Personal Connection Between Susan Lordi and Her Collectors

One of the reasons Willow Tree has remained beloved over the years is the deep personal connection that people feel with Susan Lordi’s work. Collectors often share stories about how a particular figurine holds special meaning for them—whether it’s a gift from a loved one, a token of self-reflection, or a tribute to someone they’ve lost.

Lordi herself is deeply moved by the impact her sculptures have had on people’s lives. She has often spoken about how meaningful it is to hear how her creations have helped people through difficult times, celebrated joyous occasions, and strengthened emotional bonds between loved ones.

Susan Lordi’s Artistic Inspirations

Susan Lordi draws inspiration from many sources, including nature, relationships, and her background in textiles. The flowing garments on her figurines often reflect the movement and textures found in fabric, an influence from her early career in textile art.

Nature also plays a significant role in her creative process. Many Willow Tree pieces incorporate elements like trees, birds, and flowers, symbolising growth, freedom, and resilience. The natural wood-carved aesthetic of her sculptures reinforces this connection to the organic world, making each piece feel warm and alive.

The Evolution of Willow Tree Over the Years

Since its debut in 2000, Willow Tree has grown into a globally recognised brand. What started as a small collection has now expanded into an extensive range of figures, angels, nativity scenes, and even keepsake boxes. Despite this growth, the essence of the collection has remained unchanged—each piece is still hand-carved and designed with the same level of care and emotional depth.

Over the years, Willow Tree has also introduced limited edition pieces, holiday-themed figures, and personalisation options, allowing collectors to make their figurines even more special. While new designs continue to emerge, the classic pieces remain just as beloved, proving the timeless appeal of Susan Lordi’s work.

Willow Tree in Popular Culture and Home Décor

Beyond being cherished gifts, Willow Tree figurines have also become an integral part of home décor. Their understated beauty allows them to blend seamlessly into any space, whether displayed on a mantelpiece, bedside table, or personal shrine.

Additionally, these figurines have made their way into various forms of popular culture. They have been featured in movies, TV shows, and social media posts where people share their personal stories about what a particular Willow Tree piece means to them. This widespread presence further solidifies their role as more than just figurines—they are symbols of love, memory, and connection.

The Future of Willow Tree and Susan Lordi’s Artistic Legacy

Even after more than two decades, Susan Lordi continues to expand the Willow Tree collection, introducing new designs that resonate with collectors old and new. Her commitment to authenticity and emotional depth ensures that each new piece carries the same sincerity as the very first sculpture she created.

As we look to the future, Willow Tree remains a cherished part of homes and hearts worldwide. Whether you are starting your own collection or gifting a piece to someone special, Susan Lordi’s artistry provides a timeless connection that transcends words.

The Timeless Impact of Willow Tree

Few artists have the ability to communicate deep human emotions as effortlessly as Susan Lordi. Through Willow Tree, she has created a world where love, loss, joy, and remembrance can be captured in a single sculpture. Her work has touched millions, offering comfort, celebration, and connection in its purest form.

If you’re looking for a meaningful gift or a keepsake to honour life’s most precious moments, Willow Tree figurines offer an enduring way to express the emotions that matter most. Explore the full collection of Willow Tree figurines and find the perfect piece to tell your own story.