Christmas Nativity Sets: The Willow Tree Nativity Sets

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For those looking for nativity sets that have a different look and feel from the more traditional sets, the Willow Tree Nativity Set and the Willow Tree Christmas Story Set  provide excellent alternatives.  Both sets have the look and feel of folk art.  At the same time they express, in a simple and elegant way, peacefulness and serenity.

The Willow Tree Line of figurative sculptures reveal their expressions, meanings and feelings through body gestures.  Faces are left un-carved. Some interpretation is left to the beholder, providing a more personal experience of the nativity.  According to the information provided on the Willow Tree website, "the name Willow Tree was chosen to symbolize that which is gestural and beckoning. The figures are columnar in design, like a tree, and often carry natural objects or animals as metaphors for human virtues or qualities... rosemary for remembrance, a bird for healing, flowers for beauty."

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The artist, Susan Lordi, hand carves each sculpture.  Each piece is cast in resin from the original carving, and then are individually painted by hand.  Susan uses family and friends as models.  Again, according to the website, "Softly washed colors, carved and metal accents, and representative icons of nature mark Susan's work."

Both nativity sets convey all the qualities of the Willow Tree line.  The Willow Tree Christmas Story Set is the larger (in figure size) and more colorful.  It has a more finished feel to it, while still conveying a folk art simplicity.  The Willow Tree Nativity Set is smaller and the coloring is more subdued with a more roughly carved appearance.  Both sets are available with varying numbers of pieces and prices.  You can start small and add to the sets as fast (or slowly) as you choose.  Both sets have their own backdrops and accessories.