Edgewater Willow Is A Muse For Local Artists

Since the city of Cleveland planted it around 60 years ago, the weeping willow on Edgewater Park’s northernmost shore has been a natural muse for Cleveland artists.

From its lush, green summer cloak to its stark winter nakedness, the willow is a welcome backdrop for graduation and wedding photos and an ever-changing landmark for landscape painters and photographers alike.

“I can’t imagine Edgewater without that tree — it would be empty and bland,” says photographer and frequent Cleveland Magazine contributor Angelo Merendino. “Even in the photo I made, it’s silhouetted strongly against the sky, and it doesn’t have anything to compete with.”

Behind its many masks, the tree serves as inspiration, as its peaceful summer stance comes only after weathering winter’s harsh winds and waves.

“Lake Erie is a powerful, violent body of water and yet that tree stands still,” says Merendino. “To me, it’s a symbol of resilience, and I think that’s something Clevelanders take pride in.” 4101 Fulton Parkway, Cleveland, clevelandmetroparks.com